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Adaptogens and post-viral syndromes
by Laura Dwyer | BHSc ( Naturopathy )
Post-viral syndromes Considerable research suggests acute pathogens can survive in their latent forms driving chronic , persisting , and debilitating symptoms . 1 The pathogenesis and progression of viral infections is a multistep process and therefore requires treatments that modulate the innate and adaptive immune system as well as inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways . 2 Moreover , as the neuroendocrine-immune system responds to infections and stressful events via various messengers , 3 restoring homeostasis of this system is paramount .
Adaptogens for post-viral syndromes Adaptogens play a vital role in convalescence and recovery from infection by promoting optimal response of function , regulating energy via its effects on the neuroendocrine-immune system , and supporting healthy stress response via the HPA-axis . 4 Moreover , in traditional Chinese medicine ( TCM ), certain adaptogens are well known to restore Qi , which is loosely translated as ‘ life vital force ’ with the quality , quantity , and balance of Qi determining the overall state of health .
Astragalus Astragalus is one of the most popular Qi-tonifying herbs used in TCM formulas to improve fatigue , weakness , palpitation with shortness of breath , and dizziness . 5 , 6 Polysaccharides are one of the main bioactive compounds , with preliminary evidence confirming their ability to increase white blood cell production , NK cell activity , and T-regulatory cells , correct Th1 / Th2 cytokine balance , and reduce proinflammatory cytokines . 7-11
Astragalus has been shown to reduce the duration and incidence of the common cold , 8 and was often added to TCM herbal formulas for managing severe acute respiratory syndrome . 12 Results from various trials suggest astragalus stimulates immunocompetent cells in cancer patients , 13-15 and alongside other herbs , has been shown to decrease fatigue in athletes , patients with post-acute stroke , adults with chronic fatigue , and the elderly . 16-21 Moreover , astragalus attenuated immunosuppression in athletes exposed to strenuous exercise by restoring immunological balance and stabilising NK cells . 22
Codonopsis Codonopsis is an important TCM tonic that replenishes Qi , nourishes the stomach , and promotes blood flow . 23 In preclinical studies , codonopsis exerted beneficial effects on maintaining T-cell homeostasis , modifying the microbiota , and increasing the weight of the spleen and thymus , suggesting immune-modulating effects . 24-26
Multiple trials showed significant benefits in lung function , quality of life , and exercise capacity after codonopsis supplementation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease . 26 Codonopsis has additionally been shown to reduce the severity of altitude sickness in various clinical studies , potentially by improving blood stasis , invigorating the Qi , and strengthening the spleen . 27 By virtue of its blood-nourishing activity , codonopsis may also enhance immunity , relieve fatigue , and improve anaemia . 28
Schisandra Schisandra has an extensive history of use in TCM , commonly used to invigorate the Qi of the five viscera , namely the liver , heart , spleen , lung , and kidney . 29 In preclinical studies , schisandra has been shown to reduce serum corticosterone levels , thereby ameliorating stress- related behaviour , 30 and increase resistance to various stressors by protecting against adrenal , thymus , and body weight reductions . 31
The contemporary applications of schisandra result from studies reporting beneficial effects on exhaustion , fatigue , insomnia , headache , depression , influenza , and pneumonia . 31 Schisandra is often prescribed in combination with additional herbs , particularly Siberian ginseng , and rhodiola for infections and post-viral recovery . In a recent clinical trial , this herbal combination increased physical performance and reduced the duration of fatigue and pain compared to placebo in patients with long-COVID . 32
Siberian ginseng Siberian ginseng is often prescribed to improve physical and mental responses during convalescence or fatigue states , 33 and for declining capacity of work or concentration . 34 The immune-modulating effect of Siberian ginseng is thought to
35 , 36
involve the activation of immune cells ; however , there may also be indirect immunoenhancing effects mediated via its effects on the HPA-axis . 37
A recent review of 46 studies concluded that Siberian ginseng has beneficial effects on cognitive function and physical and mental endurance and portrays promising results as prophylaxis for respiratory system infections . 38 Specifically , in a multi-centre study involving patients with asthenia and chronic stress , Siberian ginseng improved cognitive performance , fatigue , exhaustion , alertness , restlessness , mood , and quality of sleep . 39
Clinical summary Astragalus , codonopsis , schisandra , and Siberian ginseng , exert multitarget effects on the neuroendocrine-immune system by triggering adaptive stress responses that have a place in prevention , infection , inflammation , and post-viral recovery .
Full reference list available on request .
Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed in these advertorials are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ATMS or its Directors .
JATMS | Spring 2023 | 177