The adrenal glands control many body functions and play a critical role in the resistance to stress. If an individual has experienced a great deal of stress or has taken corticosteroids for a long period of time, the adrenal glands will shrink and not perform properly, causing the person to experience anxiety, depression, or chronic fatigue.

An abnormal adrenal response-either deficient or excessive hormone release-significantly alters an individual’s response to stress. Often the adrenals become “exhausted” as a result of constant demands placed upon them. An individual with adrenal exhaustion will usually suffer from chronic fatigue, may complain of feeling stressed out or anxious, and will typically have a reduced resistance to allergies and infection. Atrophy of the adrenal cortex is a common side effect of continual stress or cortisone administration. 

Andrographis – Adaptogen. Used by the Chinese for centuries. Works with the body to “normalize” its natural processes and reduce stresses on the body. Interferes with the replication and growth of both bacteria and viruses, without actually killing them.

Licorice – Contains a natural hormone that will replace cortisone. It induces the adrenal cortex to produce larger amounts of cortisone and aldosterone. Licorice root acts in the body like the cortin hormone and assists in helping the body handle the stress, allowing blood sugar levels to remain normal giving a general feeling of well being. 

References:

Jack Ritchason N.D.; The Little Herb Encyclopedia

Michael Murray, N.D., and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.; Encyclopedia of Natural Healing

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