| Natural therapeutic
approach:
CF Support for chronic fatigue syndrome
NatCell® CF Support is a blend of adrenal and mesenchymal
cell extracts
Adrenal extract to support
the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis
· Adrenal extract derived from the gland of mammals
has a long history of use as a booster for adrenal functions.
Originally administered in an injectable form along with
vitamins, it is now more conveniently available for oral
administration. Animal studies have shown that both forms
have comparable activities (Craveri, 1971). Adrenal extract
acts by supplying a small amount of adrenal hormones and
factors that promote an improved adrenal function.
· The adrenals are little triangular-shaped glands
located on top of each kidney (Mg. 2).
Figure 2. The Adrenal Glands
The inner part of the adrenal, called the medulla, produces
epinephrine (adrenaline) that is directly involved in the
"fight or flight" response to a perceived danger. Epinephrine
raises pulse rate, blood flow and blood sugar. The outer part
of the adrenal, called the cortex, secretes three major corticosteroids:
17-ketosteroids (DHEA), mineralocorticoids (aldosterone) and
glucocortocoids (cortisol and corticosterone). These hormones
have diverse functions in the body. Androgen precursors such
as DHEA have anti-inflammatory and growth-promoting functions
and are believed to have anti-aging properties in both men
and women. Aldosterone controls sodium excretion by the kidney
to maintain blood volume and blood pressure. Cortisol is the
most potent glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal. It is
structurally derived from cholesterol (Fig. 3) and acts on
specific receptors
Figure 3. Chemical
Structure of Cortisol
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throughout the body to influence glucose
homeostasis, fat and CH20H protein metabolism, immune
cortisel I function, vascular tone and bone metabolism.
It also has potent anti-inflammatory effects. As
mentioned before, cortisol secretion is controlled through
the HPA axis via ACTH secretion by the pituitary gland.
Cortisol secretion is subjected to cireadian variations
with peaks in the early morning and at night. Cortisol
can also be triggered in situation of physical and psychological
stresses. |
In CFS, the adrenal can still produce minimal levels of these
hormones but the normal circadian rhythm of cortisol secretion
is disrupted and the adrenal reserve is low (MacHale, 1998).
As a consequence, the depleted adrenal cannot respond adequately
to any stressful situation whether physical or psychological.
Adrenal depletion results in reduced physical and emotional
resistance as well as general exhaustion and weakness. Supplementing
with adrenal extract may stimulate a sluggish gland by providing
the little hormonal kick needed to step back in the right
gear.
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