Central fatigue often results from the dysfunction of the central nervous system. People with this condition don't exhibit cognitive failure or motor weakness. However, they usually show signs and symptoms like fatigue sensation, weakness of physical function, low efficiency during mental tasks, anxiety, and depression. The complex state of central fatigue can be induced by heavy physical and mental tasks, like sleep deprivation. The development of this condition has also been associated with low levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Relaxation therapy and sufficient oxygen can improve some symptoms of central fatigue. However, there was still no effective intervention for central fatigue prior to this study.
Aromatherapy is known for its physical and mental health benefits. It is commonly used as a natural remedy for sleep problems, depression, and stress. Furthermore, it has been shown to improve the well-being of cancer patients, especially in those who have undergone radiotherapy. Although there are already studies on the benefits of essential oils on burning out and mental fatigue, there is limited research on their potential use in alleviating central fatigue.
In this study from BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the researchers formulated a compound essential oil from the essential oils of nine different plants. These include Indian sandalwood (Santalum album), bitter orange (Citrus aurantium), lemon (Citrus limonum), gum benjamin (Styrax benzoin), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), peppermint (Mentha piperata), Acori tatarinowii, Rhodiola crenulata, and tea plant (Camellia sinensis). They then determined its effects on rats with central fatigue due to chronic sleep deprivation using different tests.
The researchers evaluated the compound essential oil's effects on physical performance through a weight-loaded forced swimming test. After inhalation of the essential oil, the rats exhibited significant improvements in their swimming time. This suggests that treated rats had better endurance and physical function. Meanwhile, for assessing anxiety and cognitive performance, the team used an open field test and the elevated plus maze. The results of these studies showed that treated rats experienced improvements in depression- and anxiety-like behavior. They also had better emotions, space cognition, and decision-making ability.
From these results, the researchers concluded that the compound essential oil they formulated can be used to improve central fatigue. This is because of its ability to improve both physical and mental functions. (Related: Tired All the Time? Try These Adrenal Support Essential Oil Blends.)
Natural remedies for fatigue
If you're suffering from fatigue, you can also try out the following natural remedies:
- Getting exposed to sunlight in the morning -- Instead of wallowing in the darkness of your room when you wake up, draw the curtain and let some sunlight into your room. This can help increase your alertness and reduce sleep inertia that can keep you tired.
- Changing your diet -- The food that you eat can have significant effects on how much energy you have for the day. To avoid fatigue, it is best to minimize your consumption of processed foods and sugar. You should also follow a diet that has a healthy balance of fats, protein, and carbs.
- Drinking enough water -- Fatigue is a common symptom of dehydration. By increasing your water intake, you can experience significant improvements in your energy levels, as well as your cognitive performance.
If you'd like to read more news articles on the health benefits of different essential oils, visit EssentialOils.news.
Sources include:
BMCComplementAlternMed.BioMedCentral.com
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