Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome has become a rising epidemic. With more than 200,000 cases per year. More than 1 million people suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome. The causes of chronic fatigue syndrome are not well understood. It has even been considered a psychological illness. New research suggests it results from infection.

Chronic Fatigue is referred to as chronic Epstein-Barr syndrome because of the high incidence of Epstein-Barr virus in people who suffer from this syndrome. However, just as many people test positive for this virus without exhibiting the symptoms of the syndrome. Perhaps any viral attack that the body did not handle well is a trigger.

New names and explanations for this wide-ranging group of symptoms are in use in medical terminology. The Institute of Medicine proposed calling this condition “systemic exertion intolerance disease.” I quite like this name. It acknowledges that it’s  a “real” physical condition, not a mental or emotional aberration, and it acknowledges that the entire system is involved. In addition, exertion intolerance illustrates quite well that the people afflicted with this “dis-ease,” physical and/or cognitive exertion often brings on debilitating fatigue.

Another name in use for several years now is also interesting because of its diagnostic descriptions. The medical name is “myalgic encephalomyelitis,” meaning “brain and spinal cord inflammation with muscle pain.” The first question this name brings to my mind is, “What is causing the inflammation?” Inflammation is NOT a disease. It is the result of the body’s defense systems going on high alert in an attempt to cope with something that is seriously amiss in the body.

Others consider that chemical poisoning from one source or another may be contributing factors in chronic fatigue. Everything from weed sprays through fertilizers and including prescription drugs and dental fillings have been looked at as possible causes.

Symptoms

COULD THIS BE WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?

Chronic fatigue syndrome does not manifest the same way in each person. It’s a matter of having an unusual amount of symptoms that we associate with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. When you feel this poorly, just having a diagnosis that validates the illness is comforting to most sufferers.

The presence of, or previous infection by, the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is also looked at closely. A family history of mononucleosis or hepatitis is an indicator of exposure to Epstein-Barr.  Or a family history of other infectious diseases, multiple allergies, asthma, and certain cancers may indicate an underlying immunological predisposition. Frequent sore throats and/or swollen glands,  colds or other infections, and various hormonal imbalances are also considered pre-indicators.

Other Symptoms Include: abdominal bloating, migratory aching muscles and joints with increasing stiffness and loss of motion, marked irritability or personality changes, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, significant loss of stamina an hour or so after meals, cravings for sugar or caffeine, sudden episodes of dizziness, rapid onset of fatigue at odd times, fever, headaches, digestive and/or intestinal problems, mood swings, muscle spasms, recurrent upper respiratory infections, sensitivity to light and temperature, onset of food and environmental sensitivities, sleep disturbances, temporary memory loss, and—finally—extreme and often disabling fatigue.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) affects the entire person (every organ and system is a potential target), and the entire person must be considered in looking at symptoms and in finding a treatment modality that will be effective. It is not the presence of any one symptom that indicates CFS. However it is the presence of a constellation of symptoms including any combination of the above list. Not being able to pinpoint any specific cause may also lead to chronic fatigue syndrome being the diagnosis of choice.

A Place to Start

Whether or not Epstein-Barr or any other virus is the “cause” of the problem, the virus must be eliminated. Any treatment should begin with the treatment of any infections, viral or otherwise, that currently exist anywhere in the body. Rid the body of the virus or infection and then focus on rebuilding.

HERBS FOR ELIMINATING INFECTIONS 

RC formula—this is one of the best anti-infectious formulas around and it also acts as a blood cleanser.

IF—Another excellent infection fighting tincture.

Yarrow/Usnea—Yarrow, besides fighting infections, tightens and tones tissues and mucous membranes. This toning is the beginning of healing and repair. Usnea is a viral fighter but it is also great when fighting against fungus and staph infections.

BAC—This formula includes many great infection fighting herbs including pau d’arco, which is renowned for it’s anti-staph properties and for wound healing—internally and externally.

FN—is one of my favorite formulas because it contains pau d’arco, usnea, Oregon grape, black walnut and myrrh—five of the most effective fungal and bacteria fighters in my herbal repertory.

SS—formerly referred to as Strep and Staph, also includes a great many of the herbal world’s best infection fighting herbs.

APL—No discussion of infection/microbe fighting herbal remedies would be complete without mentioning a formula similar to Dr. John Christopher’s Anti-Plague formula. APL is my version of this amazing formula. The herbs in this formula, interesting enough to me, are exactly the same herbs as is in Dr. Christopher’s amazing bone and tissue rebuilding formula. This anti-plague formula requires lots of garlic.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ELIMINATING INFECTIONS

I have listed my favorite combination, ^LeDeliverance with ^LeEndoRelief below, but realistically almost all essential oils are anti-infectious to some degree and most of them are VERY effective against all types of microbes.

^LeDeliverance is one of the most potent antiviral, antibacterial, anti fungal combinations available. Diffuse, use a drop or two whenever you brush your teeth. Dilute and place on the feet or on the chest.  Frequent and consistent use of ^LeDeliverance also strengthens the immune system.

^LeEndoRelief is an endocrine system balancer. ^LeEndoRelief can have a beneficial effect on any ailment that is related to endocrine organs such as the thyroid, pancreas, pineal and pituitary glands, parathyroid, thymus, and adrenal glands. Alternate with ^LeDeliverance by putting one on your chest and the other on your feet, alternating which one is where, until all traces of the infections are cleared away.

^LeSpiceC, is very similar to ^LeDeliverance but this blend tastes and smells better.  ^LeSpiceC  can be used but, in my opinion,  lacks some very powerful microbe fighting ingredients that are found in  ^LeDeliverance.

Diet, Absorption of Nutrients, Colon Health

You need all of the nutrition that you can get to put your entire system back on track.  You cannot afford to consume very many of the things that rob your body of nutrients—junk food, drugs, and medications, to name just a few.

Do your homework on what is available to supply the nutrients you need and what you can do to maximize your body’s absorption of these nutrients. Bear in mind that over-loading on supplements that you are not absorbing creates its own kind of stress in the body. It can quickly become a major contributor in the escalation of the problem rather than being part of finding a solution.

Energy work can help “teach” the body how to manage the absorption of nutrients better and can help to eliminate allergic reactions to certain foods and food groups.

The health of your colon plays a big part in how many nutrients your body is actually absorbing. An unhealthy colon is part of most, if not all, diseases. This is especially true of chronic fatigue. Diet plays a huge role in colon health, make sure you are eating foods with plenty of live enzymes, and include probiotics in your diet. Doing a cleanse at least a few times a year is also extremely beneficial.

The best way to supply your body with the nutrition it needs is thru the foods you eat. Make sure you are getting plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats. Cutting out processed foods and instead eating fresh whole foods can make a world of difference to your health. Green smoothies are an excellent way to get extra nutrition in your diet.

HERBS FOR NUTRITION

MIN—as a tincture or a tea is a great way to contribute to the amount on minerals going into the body.
KNA—contains most, if not all, of the vitamins and minerals needed for health. It also contains a couple of wonderful proteins.

HERBS FOR COLON HEALTH

CD—is a tincture used for inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, and is an effective colon cleanse. The CD with KB, LC, and RC tinctures, in the reset kit for a good all around cleanse.
Sarsaparilla— An unhealthy colon can release endotoxins into the body. Sarsaparilla binds with endotoxins and removes them from the body.

ESSENTIAL OILS TO IMPROVE ABSORPTION OF NUTRIENTS

^LeEternity, ^LeEverlasting, ^LeUnity, and ^LeIntention all seem to enhance vitamin and mineral absorption for the overall improvement of health and vitality. They are truly amazing in this aspect of healing.

^LeEternity, has powerful anti-oxidant properties. It enhances vitamin and mineral absorption for the overall improvement of health and vitality.  Helps the body absorb calcium.

^LeEverlasting is a blend of five blends from both the high frequency and low frequency range. ^LeEverlasting is a low frequency blend but you still get the impact of the high frequency blends.  At the same time, the lower frequency of the whole carries the healing more deeply into the physical body. This releases negative emotions  clear down to the cellular level.

^LeUnity promotes harmony within ourselves, with others around us, and with our Creator. One of the great strengths of  ^LeUnity is its ability to balance every chakra.  Many times the balancing of all of the chakras eliminates or minimizes any allergic reaction.

^LeIntention, The essential oils of which ^LeIntention is comprised affect the absorption of nutrients and the metabolic function of the body. This blend improves the digestive function, tones and cleanses the liver, and prevents gallbladder inflammation and the production of gallstones. Because of its effect on capillary and vein health, this blend stabilizes blood pressure fluctuations, tightens and tones the skin and tissues, and increases circulation. Used consistently, ^LeIntention has a building and sustaining influence on energy levels.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR COLON HEALTH

^LeInsideOut, ^LeJulia, ^LeEZ Traveler are all beneficial for the colon and digestive system.

^LeInsideOut, improves the function of the digestive system. It helps with upset stomach, belching, bloating, stomach cramps, heartburn, constipation, and diarrhea. It has the ability to be effective for both constipation and diarrhea.  This may seem odd, it is not. Natural remedies work with the body to return systems to balanced and healthy states.

^LeJulia, was designed for small children but many adults love it as well.  ^LeJulia calms and soothes the emotions, allowing the “knots” in the stomach to dissolve. This blend creates an atmosphere where fear, anxiety, and the need to hold on tightly to emotions that need to be released. It seems odd that infants and small children should have such issues, but the birth process and coming into this world can be a difficult transition for some sensitive spirits.

^LeEZ Traveler Besides alleviating the physical symptoms of motion sickness, ^LeEZ Traveler  promotes feelings of calmness, emotional strength, and the ability to cope with the days events and responsibilities. It is effective against other forms of motion sickness and unrelated incidences of nausea, dizziness, and vertigo.

 

Energy

The one symptom every person with chronic fatigue will exhibit is debilitating exhaustion. Good nutrition will help with that and also good sleep is imperative.

ESSENTIAL OILS TO IMPROVE ENERGY LEVELS

^LeRevitalize, ^LeIQ, ^LeEnergy, ^LeVitality, ^LeCinnamonBear, and ^LeAmbition

^LeRevitalize, increases mental alertness and alleviates mental fatigue. It replenishes inner stores of strength and increases stamina. This blend is especially effective for those who are worn out from chronic illness or who make a habit out of running faster than they have strength.

^LeIQ, alleviates mental fatigue and increases mental alertness. It aids in concentration and memory.   Particularly useful when one is over-tired but must continue on. It is high in sesquiterpenes that carry oxygen to the brain. ^LeIQ  seems to dissolve some types of chemicals and clear them from the receptor sites feeding the pituitary, pineal, and hypothalamus glands.

^LeEnergy, can aid us in making decisions and taking responsibility for our own lives and actions. It moderates our need for the attention and approval of others. ^LeEnergy increases circulation, strengthens the adrenal glands, improves energy levels and mental alertness naturally without the side effects of drugs. Balances the mechanical and electrical functions of the heart.

^LeVitality, is useful for shock. It also increases vitality, energy, and stamina.  Specific for stamina and strength. Gives you more energy and you feel good enough to enjoy life more fully.   ^LeVitality is very specific for the cardiovascular, circulatory, pulmonary, and lymphatic systems.

^LeCinnamonBear,  removes the resistance we sometimes feel to new experiences, new people, and new situations.  ^LeCinnamonBear acts as a stimulant and tonic for circulation, and for the immune and lymphatic systems.  Pregnant women should use caution.

^LeAmbition,  is a whole body rejuvenation.  A pick-me-up for every part of every system of your body. This makes it an amazing oil to use to recover from illness. ^LeAmbition is a great stress relieving oil,  use for headaches, mental fatigue, and revitalizing a weary mind. Particularly good blend for pregnancy and labor.

ESSENTIAL OILS TO IMPROVE SLEEP 

^LeGoodNite, ^LeLetting Go, or ^LeTranquility are very helpful if you are having trouble sleeping.

^LeGoodNite, promotes restful sleep is because it encourages feelings of peace. We feel assurance that all will be well in our world even though we are sleeping and not actively watching over it. ^LeGoodNite seems to help us process, painlessly, deep emotions during our sleep. In the morning we will be able to express our deep feelings about these emotions clearly and without the usual stress.

^LeLetting Go,  is literally what the name implies, an oil to aid us in the “letting go” of negative emotions that we are holding onto in the physical tissues of our bodies.   Letting go of the emotional baggage that we don’t need can have an energizing effect on the colon, kidneys, liver, and gall-bladder in particular.

^LeTranquility,  is useful as a sleep aid, especially when the problem is “mind chatter” that just won’t quit. Instead of sleeping, even though we need sleep badly, we lay there reviewing the past day in our minds or making plans for tomorrow. It helps us take a step back from the situation. We may come to a fuller understanding of all aspects of the situation. From this perspective we are usually able to see solutions to our dilemmas more easily.  ^LeTranquility is best known for stopping panic attacks and anxiety.

HERBS TO IMPROVE ENERGY LEVELS

CF—This tincture formula was created specifically for chronic fatigue. Use in conjunction with the other tinctures listed below.
AD—This is a very powerful combination of herbs for strengthening and rebuilding the adrenal glands.
MH, MW, or YW—These are hormone balancing formulas with MH being for men, MW being specific to women past their childbearing years, and YW for women in their childbearing years.

An Unusual Phenomenon:

From time to time, in the midst of disabling chronic fatigue, a chronic fatigue syndrome sufferer will hit upon an idea (they were often very creative and dynamic people before the overwhelming fatigue of CFS) and suddenly the energy just flows for a time—until the project is completed, or nearly so. This is remarked on time and time again in the literature and is not really understood. It is not that the person is lazy the rest of the time, nor is it much of an indication that they are suddenly getting well.

Emotional Strength

Chronic Fatigue like any chronic illness can have great effects on the mind. It can be very difficult to stay positive in the face of this level of fatigue. There are many essential oils that will help with the wide variety of emotions you may be feeling. Listed below are just five of the great ones!

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR EMOTIONAL STRENGTH

^LeInner Peace, ^LeCherish, ^LeHeartSong, ^LeSanctuary, and ^LeWisdom

^LeInner Peace can help us with acceptance of ourselves and others.  This brings us a calm acceptance of the changes that life brings to us all.

^LeCherish,  helps us develop and emphasize inner courage.  Gives us strength of character, and clarity of purpose, while at the same time, filling our souls with greater reserves of sensitivity and compassion.

^LeHeartSong, is a high frequency blend.  It reminds us that we are loved and cherished by many people, and certainly by Heaven. ^LeHeartSong is the best oil for depression.

^LeSanctuary, promotes feelings of protection and safety. From this safe place we can examine ourselves comfortably, listening closely to the whisperings of the spirit and our own intuitive knowledge of our strengths and weaknesses.

^LeWisdom,  helps us as we experience adversity and joy in this life, our fears, frustrations, annoyances, and irritabilities should mellow into wisdom. This blend can help us do that by moving us away from the negative patterns of our lives. It is of particular use for those who become distraught or discouraged because they continually pressure themselves to do more, be absolutely perfect, or to be ready for any future crisis situation that may happen.

Stress and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Quote from Science News, September 12, 1987, and re-quoted in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, The Hidden Epidemic by Stoff and Peligrini:

Tending to a relative with Alzheimer’s disease is not just psychologically stressful—over the long run, say researchers at Ohio State University College of Medicine in Columbus, it can undermine the caregiver’s immune responses. . . Subjects caring for an Alzheimer victim reported more distress and poorer mental health than individuals with no such responsibilities. Caregivers also had indications of poor immune function: lower percentages of T-lymphocytes and helper T-lymphocytes than controls, as well as a lower ratio of antibody-stimulating cells to antibody-suppressing cells. In addition, there was evidence of poorer immune system control of the latent Epstein-Barr virus among caregivers.

Prolonged stress may have similar effects on the immune system and the nervous system of any person. We are not to live our lives in a hyper-alert state or under chronic stress. The following is a quote from Norman Cousins in Anatomy of an Illness, and re-quoted in the book mentioned for the previous quote, above.

Adrenal exhaustion could be caused by emotional tension, such as frustration or suppressed rage . . . the negative effects of the negative emotions on body chemistry.  The inevitable question arose in my mind: what about the positive emotions? If negative emotions produce negative chemical changes in the body, wouldn’t the positive emotions produce positive chemical changes? Is it possible that love, hope, faith, laughter, confidence, and the will to live have therapeutic value? Do chemical changes occur only on the downside?

Stress and its relationship to physical and mental health is an elusive subject to study or to treat. It is not so much a matter of what stresses are in our lives, but how we handle the stress.

 

Chronic Fatigue and Homeopathy

The best description of chronic fatigue syndrome I have ever found is in the chapter entitled Footprints: The Diagnostic Dilemma in the book Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, The Hidden Epidemic, by Jesse A. Stoff, MD and Charles R. Pellegrino, Ph.D. This book is a wealth of excellent information and it is written in a very readable and entertaining style. I have had my copy for so many years; I am not even sure that it is available to purchase except through eBay anymore. The information therein was the basis for the creation of the first four of the following CFS homeopathics.

Homeopathy is the deepest acting and most complete of all of the healing modalities that I know or worked with. Homeopathy is a deep subject, and to understand it well requires a great deal of commitment and study. However, with just a little guidance from someone who has some experience, it is a simple modality to use. Experience and good advice is what I found in the book mentioned above. The results, over the years, from these homeopathic formulas have been impressive.

Treating homeopathically is treating using “the law of similars,” The specific name of the disease is not relevant. What matters is that your symptom picture and the symptom pictures of the remedies you intend to take match!! A struggling adrenal cortex always manifests in certain ways, as does a clogged liver or colon. Disease names are a way of describing symptoms, and are unnecessary for competent homeopathic prescribers if they wish to be effective at solving the “case.” Symptom-picture methodology is where homeopathic remedies shine!!

THE CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME REMEDIES

Consider the use of Glandular Support #3, CFS #5,  and Detox #1 (more information can be found in the book, Butterfly Miracles with Homeopathic Remedies II) along with the following remedies as the symptoms indicate their need.

Low potency combination remedies are more effective with chronic fatigue sufferers than high potency single remedies, because homeopathic remedies mixed together, produce a synergistic (better than each remedy separately) effect much like essential oils do.

CFS #1 (12X)

ECHINACEA ANGUSTIFOLIA/PURPUREA (purple cone-flower) Echinacea stimulates the immune response and is a tonic for the blood. The symptom picture includes many of the physical and mental symptoms of CFS and has strong indications for the support of liver function. Great fatigue and prostration are key-notes of both the remedy and chronic fatigue syndrome, making them a good match.

Consider Echinacea as an herbal supplement. It is a protection against bacterial and viral infections and to eliminate chemical toxins.

ARGENTUM NITRICUM (silver nitrate) The physical description of this remedy includes colic with much gas and distension of the abdomen, great lassitude, and weariness. Emotional patterns include many fears, a list of phobias, a lot of anxiety—especially about personal performance, with a great fear of failure (or success) and a fear that something bad is about to happen. The person is usually impulsive—always wants to do things in a hurry. An especially strong and important keynote is an almost overwhelming craving for sweets.

FERRUM PHOSPHORICUM (iron phosphate) The combination of the two great polycrests, Ferrum and Phosphoricum, creates an outstanding remedy for extreme debility, exhaustion and anemia. This remedy increases hemoglobin levels in the blood by instructing various organs and systems as to their tasks. This remedy is for the first stage of all inflammatory disorders.

Ferrum phos is an outstanding example of synergy, the combining of remedies so that the sum is greater than the total of the parts, in the best healing sense. In this case, the Argentum nitricum and the Ferrum phosphoricum greatly enhance the immune strengthening properties of the Echinacea. This remedy helps in the regenerative process in the individual cells of organs, tissues, and nerves

CFS #2 (6X)

APIS MELLIFICA (honey bee) Based on anecdotal evidence, a few doctors have used the sting of the honey bee in the treatment of nerve and immune system disorders such as multiple sclerosis. Chronic fatigue certainly qualifies as a nerve and immune system disorder! This is interesting in light of the symptom picture of this remedy. It matches the symptoms of MS very closely.

Apis has an unusually slow action, discontinuing the use too soon will not be beneficial.  The increased flow of urine produced by this remedy indicates that it is having a favorable effect and is detoxifying the body as intended. A key-note is hot, stinging, burning sensations, the location of which may be anywhere in the body. Other key-notes are extreme tenderness in the abdominal region, nervousness, and great restlessness.

BELLADONNA (deadly nightshade) Belladonna acts on the brain, nerve centers, and glandular and lymphatic systems. The symptoms are notable because of their sudden onset. Abdominal symptoms include extreme sensitivity to touch, with tenderness and swelling. There are also several kinds of insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Together these two remedies make an awesome combination for use with nerve disorders, abdominal distress, and insomnia. I have found them very effective.

HYPERICUM PERFORATUM (St. John’s Wort) is not in the CFS remedy #2 but—consider it, if the symptom pictures match.  Hypericum is for nervous depression following injury or chronic illness, as well as for a host of other mental and physical symptoms that describe the chronic fatigue sufferer.

CFS #3 (6X)

Targets the liver, pancreas, adrenal cortex, and digestive function.

HEPAR SULPHERIS CALCAREUM (Calcium sulphide) Mental symptoms include being over sensitive to impressions, people, and places with extreme irritability, impulsiveness, and sometime a ferocious temper. Sadness and depression to the point of a desire for death are not uncommon symptoms.  A definitive action on the liver, lymphatic, and  glandular systems.

MERCURIUS SOLUBLIS (mercury vivus)  People who need this remedy are human thermometers. That’s mercury!—up and down and constantly changing, especially in moods and energy levels. There will be dejection and discouragement. Mercurius also has an action on the lymphatic system and increases glandular activity. Both of these functions are badly needed when coping with chronic fatigue syndrome. Physically and mentally, the symptom picture includes many of the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fatigue in general. Other physical symptoms include tinnitus, pancreas dysfunction, and liver enlargement.

SPONGIA TOSTA (roasted sponge)  Specific to the adrenal glands, acts as a stimulant to the liver. Physical symptoms include severe exhaustion and a feeling of heaviness after exertion. Watching them walk up a short incline is enough to make the observer tired! Their clothes feel uncomfortable and whenever possible, they undo their pants, loosen their tie and unbutton their shirt. Stiffness in the muscles and severe constipation are absolutes. There will be fear of the future.

TARAXACUM OFFICINALE (dandelion)  Deficiency of liver and bladder with liver clogging and the attendant front headache are part of this picture. Gastric distress with feelings of bubbles bursting in the abdomen. There is impatience, irritability, and much grumbling going on under the breath.

Stimulates the anabolic metabolism of the liver. Supports the immune system, takes stress off the pancreas and adrenal glands, and improves digestive function. Abdominal pains and bloating noted by chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers often subside.

CFS #4 (6X)

With this compound you should notice, over several weeks, a lessening of both fatigue and irritability and a clearing of the dark circles under the eyes.

SEPIA SUCCUS (cuttlefish ink) Sepia symptoms include a sluggish liver with the sensation of something twisting in the stomach and intestines. The person will be mentally and physically worn out, irritable, overwhelmed, and averse to the company of those they love—family, for whom they feel responsibility.

IGNATIA AMARA (St. Ignatius bean) Ignatia is always about the physical effects of grief and worry. Some physical symptoms seen in CFS include spasms and cramps in the back and other muscles, sciatic pain in the back and hips, joints feeling as if they are dislocated, much flatulence, and insomnia due to the mind focusing on griefs, disappointments, or worries.

CALCAREA CARBONICA (calcium carbonate) Extreme fatigue due to mental or physical over-work. The person is constantly worrying about all their responsibilities and duties. They have nightmares and poor sleep patterns with frequent sourness and nausea in the stomach.

CFS #5 (6X)

CALCAREA MURIATICA (calcium chloride) The symptoms of Calcarea muriatica include anxiety with weakness, trembling, indicates for the relief of glandular swelling, and gastric pain.

KALI PHOSPHORICUM (potassium phosphate) Symptoms include fatigue, insomnia, nervous prostration, increased sensitivity to all impressions, and weakened state from mental or physical stresses.

RESERPINUM (alkaloid of Rauwolfia serpentina) Reserpinum symptoms include the slowing down of mind and body, lassitude and aversion to work in the evening, nervous depression, alarming fatigue symptoms in normally hyperactive and aggressive persons, spasmodic attacks of pain in the colon, constipation followed by diarrhea, the need for sleep or period of rest after meals, and gastric and duodenal ulcers.

ZINCUM MURIATICUM (zinc chloride) Zincum and Muriaticum together indicate great fatigue of both brain and nerves. Moods will be changeable. There is an unusual symptom of craving for some particular food in an attempt to relieve irritation and nausea of the stomach.

Epstein-Barr Virus

According to Jesse Stoff, MD (previously quoted), “The Epstein-Barr virus not only weakens the surveillance system that guards against deviant cells, but is itself oncogenic, meaning that under the right circumstances it can create deviant cells and be responsible for the creation of several different varieties of cancer.” If this is so, it is a scary virus, indeed.

Research indicates that EBV acts as an initiator and needs a “promoter.” Research is unclear what constitutes a promoter. The list of EBV-associated cancers grows every day.

The common denominator seems to be confusion of the immune system as to what is and what is not foreign to the body and is an invading organism or cell. In other words, the same thing that is causing such an increase in allergies may also be causing an increase in EBV-related cancers.

Immune System

Immune-suppressant drugs added to “required” vaccinations and given so freely to our children, starting as day-old infants in the hospitals where they are born could be a factor. The second link seems to be the vast array of chemicals that we ingest or take into our bodies in other ways every day. There are likely other links to the increased number of suppressed immune systems today.

According to some studies, EBV attacks the anti-body producing B-cells. Because, the virus causes the B-cells to reproduce infected B-cells, the cells that are the defenders are now creating the problem. T-cells destroy the infected B-cells resulting in an immune deficiency. The thymus, producing the T-cells, then goes into over-drive to make up the losses, over an extended period of time resulting in thymus gland fatigue. The fatigued thymus then produces immature and atypical T-cells, deepening the immune system compromise and opening the body to disease, perhaps even including the EBV-related cancers as well as other bacterial and viral illnesses.

The best defense is often a good offense. Whether or not you suffer from the Epstein-Barr virus or chronic fatigue, strengthen your immune system every day. Do not wait until you are fighting something nasty to get to work on your health.