Educational information, not medical advice.See how evidence is graded

Long Covid: natural remedies and the evidence behind them

Long COVID is a condition where symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, breathlessness, and pain persist for weeks or months after the initial COVID-19…

14 options1 graded A2 graded C11 traditional or ungraded

Guided condition explorer

Start with what sounds familiar.

Choose what sounds familiar, then choose the kind of support you want to explore. HealisticMD narrows the library without presenting the result as personal medical advice.

← Back to Health Topics
Loading

Loading the questions for Long Covid…

Build your plan in the app

Build and track your natural-health plan for Long Covid in the app.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Which part of Long COVID is hitting me hardest right now?

Bone-deep fatigue — I'm drained no matter how much I rest, and doing too much wipes me out for days

Natural remedy

Exercise

Evidence grade A · No traditional record

Rebuilds physical capacity safely

Why it may be relevant

Structured, paced exercise is especially relevant for those struggling with breathlessness and physical deconditioning after COVID-19.

Supported by a systematic review and network meta-analysis for post-COVID-19 syndrome, but the benefit depends on careful pacing that stays below your post-exertional-malaise threshold; combining gentle aerobic work with respiratory-muscle training is the best-supported approach.

Dose or use Start very low and slow: short, gentle sessions of about 5-10 min of light activity such as paced walking, gentle mobility, or breathing-muscle work, with generous rest between. Increase only if symptoms do not flare the next day. Use heart-rate pacing and stop before exhaustion.

Key study Systematic review (2025, PMID 41488929): Clinical efficacy of exercise in the treatment of post-COVID-19 syndrome: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

EvidenceSupported by controlled trialsTime to resultsTypically 4–12 weeks
Caution: Post-exertional malaise is common in Long COVID: if symptoms worsen 24-72 hours after activity, scale back. Stay below your symptom threshold and work with a healthcare provider before progressing.
Read the evidence →

Nutrient gap worth checking

CoQ10 Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low CoQ10 can drive fatigue and weakness

Why it may be relevant

When bone-deep fatigue lingers, low CoQ10 is worth ruling out: it is central to how your cells make energy, and mitochondrial dysfunction is a leading hypothesis in Long COVID.

A root-cause check, not a treatment claim: if your CoQ10 is low, correcting it may support cellular energy. Ask your provider whether this fits your picture.

Dose or use This is a screening prompt: talk with your provider about whether checking or trialing CoQ10 makes sense for your fatigue.

Key study This is a root-cause deficiency check, not a proven Long COVID treatment; low CoQ10 is a plausible, testable contributor to persistent fatigue.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsVaries; energy changes often take several weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: CoQ10 status isn't part of routine bloodwork, so discuss it with your provider; supplemental CoQ10 may interact with blood thinners.

Natural remedy

D-ribose

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Supplies ATP building blocks for tired cells

Why it may be relevant

If exhaustion and muscle fatigue dominate, D-ribose provides raw material your cells use to rebuild energy (ATP), a common choice for post-viral, CFS-type fatigue that overlaps with Long COVID.

Used for chronic-fatigue-syndrome-type exhaustion and low energy; the overlap with Long COVID is promising but not confirmed in controlled Long COVID trials.

Dose or use Commonly 5 g up to 2-3 times daily dissolved in water; start low and see how you respond, with provider guidance.

Key study Traditionally used for chronic-fatigue-type exhaustion; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-4 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May lower blood sugar, so use caution if diabetic or on glucose-lowering medication; can cause mild digestive upset.
Read the evidence →

Pressure point

ST36 (Zusanli)

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Classic acupressure point for energy

Why it may be relevant

ST36 is the best-known acupressure point for energy and fatigue, offering a gentle self-care option when exhaustion is your main struggle.

A traditional Chinese medicine point long used to tonify energy and support immunity; a low-risk self-care practice, not a proven Long COVID treatment.

Dose or use Press firmly on ST36 (just below the outer knee) for 2-3 min per side, 1-2x daily; breathe slowly as you hold.

Key study Traditionally used for energy and fatigue; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeks with regular practiceTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid pressing on broken or irritated skin, and go gently if you bruise easily; a supportive practice, not a substitute for medical care.

Natural remedy

Ubiquinol/Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Fuels cellular energy production

Why it may be relevant

For deep fatigue, CoQ10 supports the mitochondria that power your cells, the energy machinery thought to be disrupted in Long COVID.

Widely used for fatigue and mitochondrial support and commonly trialed in post-viral and chronic-fatigue states, though not yet confirmed for Long COVID in controlled trials.

Dose or use Ubiquinol 100-200 mg daily with a fat-containing meal is a common range; check with your provider.

Key study Traditionally and widely used for energy and mitochondrial support; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; may interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) and some blood-pressure medications.
Read the evidence →

Which part of Long COVID is hitting me hardest right now?

Breathlessness — even light activity leaves me winded, and I've lost my physical stamina

Natural remedy

Exercise

Evidence grade A · No traditional record

Rebuilds physical capacity safely

Why it may be relevant

Structured, paced exercise is especially relevant for those struggling with breathlessness and physical deconditioning after COVID-19.

Supported by a systematic review and network meta-analysis for post-COVID-19 syndrome, but the benefit depends on careful pacing that stays below your post-exertional-malaise threshold; combining gentle aerobic work with respiratory-muscle training is the best-supported approach.

Dose or use Start very low and slow: short, gentle sessions of about 5-10 min of light activity such as paced walking, gentle mobility, or breathing-muscle work, with generous rest between. Increase only if symptoms do not flare the next day. Use heart-rate pacing and stop before exhaustion.

Key study Systematic review (2025, PMID 41488929): Clinical efficacy of exercise in the treatment of post-COVID-19 syndrome: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

EvidenceSupported by controlled trialsTime to resultsTypically 4–12 weeks
Caution: Post-exertional malaise is common in Long COVID: if symptoms worsen 24-72 hours after activity, scale back. Stay below your symptom threshold and work with a healthcare provider before progressing.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Breathwork

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Retrains breathing and calms the body

Why it may be relevant

Breathlessness after COVID is often driven by dysfunctional breathing patterns; gentle breathing retraining helps you breathe more efficiently and settles the nervous system.

Breathing retraining is a mainstream, low-risk rehab tool for post-COVID breathlessness, and it also lowers stress and supports relaxation.

Dose or use Practice slow diaphragmatic breathing (gentle nasal breaths with longer exhales) for 5-10 min, once or twice daily; stop if you feel light-headed.

Key study A standard rehab practice for breathing efficiency and relaxation; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid forceful or rapid hyperventilation-style techniques, which can worsen symptoms; go gently and build up slowly.
Read the evidence →

What kind of recovery support fits me best?

I want to rebuild my body gently — paced movement and breathing retraining, without triggering a crash

Natural remedy

Exercise

Evidence grade A · No traditional record

Rebuilds physical capacity safely

Why it may be relevant

Structured, paced exercise is especially relevant for those struggling with breathlessness and physical deconditioning after COVID-19.

Supported by a systematic review and network meta-analysis for post-COVID-19 syndrome, but the benefit depends on careful pacing that stays below your post-exertional-malaise threshold; combining gentle aerobic work with respiratory-muscle training is the best-supported approach.

Dose or use Start very low and slow: short, gentle sessions of about 5-10 min of light activity such as paced walking, gentle mobility, or breathing-muscle work, with generous rest between. Increase only if symptoms do not flare the next day. Use heart-rate pacing and stop before exhaustion.

Key study Systematic review (2025, PMID 41488929): Clinical efficacy of exercise in the treatment of post-COVID-19 syndrome: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

EvidenceSupported by controlled trialsTime to resultsTypically 4–12 weeks
Caution: Post-exertional malaise is common in Long COVID: if symptoms worsen 24-72 hours after activity, scale back. Stay below your symptom threshold and work with a healthcare provider before progressing.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Breathwork

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Retrains breathing and calms the body

Why it may be relevant

Breathlessness after COVID is often driven by dysfunctional breathing patterns; gentle breathing retraining helps you breathe more efficiently and settles the nervous system.

Breathing retraining is a mainstream, low-risk rehab tool for post-COVID breathlessness, and it also lowers stress and supports relaxation.

Dose or use Practice slow diaphragmatic breathing (gentle nasal breaths with longer exhales) for 5-10 min, once or twice daily; stop if you feel light-headed.

Key study A standard rehab practice for breathing efficiency and relaxation; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid forceful or rapid hyperventilation-style techniques, which can worsen symptoms; go gently and build up slowly.
Read the evidence →

Which part of Long COVID is hitting me hardest right now?

Brain fog — I can't think clearly, lose words, and my memory feels unreliable

Natural remedy

Probiotics

Evidence grade C · No traditional record

Gut-brain support with an early trial signal

Why it may be relevant

The gut microbiome is disrupted in many people with Long COVID, and the gut-brain axis is one proposed driver of brain fog. A small placebo-controlled Long COVID trial of a specific probiotic strain saw fewer errors on a cognitive test, making probiotics a reasonable, low-risk option to explore for cloudy thinking.

Best understood as a gentle, gut-focused support with early, preliminary evidence rather than a proven fix. The one Long COVID trial was small and tested a single heat-treated strain, so results may not carry over to every product; general probiotics remain low-risk and worth a considered trial.

Dose or use A daily multi-strain probiotic (commonly 10-30 billion CFU) with food is a typical range; the trial ran about six weeks. Introduce gradually and pick a reputable product.

Key study Randomized controlled trial (2026, PMID 41663412): Efficacy of heat-treated Lacticaseibacillus paracasei PS23 for individuals with long coronavirus disease-19 syndrome: a double-blinded randomized control pilot study. A small (39-participant) placebo-controlled pilot found fewer errors on a cognitive test plus improvements in a stress hormone and self-reported breathing, though the trial was small and used one specific strain.

EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeks
Caution: Generally well tolerated; mild gas or bloating can occur at first. If you are immunocompromised, seriously ill, or have a central line, check with your provider before starting probiotics.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Acupressure

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Traditionally eases cognitive and stress symptoms

Why it may be relevant

Acupressure has traditionally been used to support mental clarity and reduce the mental fatigue associated with brain fog.

Traditionally used to stimulate specific pressure points believed to support energy flow, cognitive function, and stress relief.

Dose or use Press firmly 2–3 min, both sides, 1–2x daily on relevant points (e.g., PC6 for fatigue, GV20 for clarity); consult a practitioner for guidance.

Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2–6 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medication, or manage a chronic condition.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Ginkgo biloba

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Traditionally supports circulation and cognition

Why it may be relevant

Ginkgo biloba has traditionally been used to support mental clarity and cognitive function, making it most relevant for brain fog symptoms.

Traditionally used to support cerebral circulation and cognitive performance; no modern clinical proof specific to Long COVID.

Dose or use 120–240 mg of standardized extract daily, typically in divided doses; consult a healthcare practitioner.

Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May interact with blood thinners and antiplatelet medications; avoid before surgery.
Read the evidence →

Nutrient gap worth checking

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low B12 causes fatigue and foggy thinking

Why it may be relevant

Persistent fatigue plus cloudy thinking can point to low B12, a cheap and correctable deficiency worth ruling out during post-viral recovery.

A root-cause check, not a treatment claim: B12 deficiency produces fatigue and cognitive difficulty, so testing can rule out an easily fixable cause.

Dose or use Ask your provider for a simple blood test to check your B12 level before supplementing.

Key study This is a root-cause deficiency check, not a proven Long COVID treatment; correcting a documented shortfall may support energy and clarity.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically several weeks after correctionTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Confirm with testing; untreated deficiency can cause serious neurological effects, so involve your provider.

Which part of Long COVID is hitting me hardest right now?

My nervous system is on edge — anxiety, restless sleep, and I can't seem to switch off

Natural remedy

Sound therapy

Evidence grade C · No traditional record

Calms the nervous system via sound

Why it may be relevant

Sound-based therapies are most relevant for those experiencing anxiety, poor sleep, or nervous system dysregulation as part of Long COVID.

Suggested by a small pre-post pilot study in Long COVID patients, plus broader sound-therapy research on lowering stress and improving sleep; early and preliminary, not definitive.

Dose or use Listen to calming tones, singing-bowl, or Biosound-style sessions for about 20-30 min, once daily or as needed, in a quiet space.

Key study Pre-post pilot study (2024, PMID 38697866): Biosound Therapy as a treatment for long COVID patients, an uncontrolled feasibility pilot, preliminary and suggestive only.

EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsTypically 2–6 weeks
Caution: Check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medication, or manage a chronic condition.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Acupressure

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Traditionally eases cognitive and stress symptoms

Why it may be relevant

Acupressure has traditionally been used to support mental clarity and reduce the mental fatigue associated with brain fog.

Traditionally used to stimulate specific pressure points believed to support energy flow, cognitive function, and stress relief.

Dose or use Press firmly 2–3 min, both sides, 1–2x daily on relevant points (e.g., PC6 for fatigue, GV20 for clarity); consult a practitioner for guidance.

Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2–6 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medication, or manage a chronic condition.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Breathwork

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Retrains breathing and calms the body

Why it may be relevant

Breathlessness after COVID is often driven by dysfunctional breathing patterns; gentle breathing retraining helps you breathe more efficiently and settles the nervous system.

Breathing retraining is a mainstream, low-risk rehab tool for post-COVID breathlessness, and it also lowers stress and supports relaxation.

Dose or use Practice slow diaphragmatic breathing (gentle nasal breaths with longer exhales) for 5-10 min, once or twice daily; stop if you feel light-headed.

Key study A standard rehab practice for breathing efficiency and relaxation; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid forceful or rapid hyperventilation-style techniques, which can worsen symptoms; go gently and build up slowly.
Read the evidence →

Pressure point

HT7 (Shenmen) - Heart 7

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Calming point for anxiety and restless sleep

Why it may be relevant

HT7, the 'Spirit Gate,' is the classic calming point for anxiety, nervous tension, and poor sleep, a gentle option when your nervous system feels on edge.

A traditional Chinese medicine point long used to calm the mind and ease insomnia; a low-risk self-care practice, not a proven Long COVID treatment.

Dose or use Press gently on HT7 (inner wrist crease, pinky side) for 2-3 min per side, 1-2x daily or before bed, breathing slowly.

Key study Traditionally used for anxiety and restless sleep; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeks with regular practiceTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid broken or irritated skin, and go gently if you bruise easily; a supportive practice, not a substitute for medical care.

What kind of recovery support fits me best?

I'd rather try well-chosen supplements that support my body's energy and recovery

Natural remedy

Probiotics

Evidence grade C · No traditional record

Gut-brain support with an early trial signal

Why it may be relevant

The gut microbiome is disrupted in many people with Long COVID, and the gut-brain axis is one proposed driver of brain fog. A small placebo-controlled Long COVID trial of a specific probiotic strain saw fewer errors on a cognitive test, making probiotics a reasonable, low-risk option to explore for cloudy thinking.

Best understood as a gentle, gut-focused support with early, preliminary evidence rather than a proven fix. The one Long COVID trial was small and tested a single heat-treated strain, so results may not carry over to every product; general probiotics remain low-risk and worth a considered trial.

Dose or use A daily multi-strain probiotic (commonly 10-30 billion CFU) with food is a typical range; the trial ran about six weeks. Introduce gradually and pick a reputable product.

Key study Randomized controlled trial (2026, PMID 41663412): Efficacy of heat-treated Lacticaseibacillus paracasei PS23 for individuals with long coronavirus disease-19 syndrome: a double-blinded randomized control pilot study. A small (39-participant) placebo-controlled pilot found fewer errors on a cognitive test plus improvements in a stress hormone and self-reported breathing, though the trial was small and used one specific strain.

EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeks
Caution: Generally well tolerated; mild gas or bloating can occur at first. If you are immunocompromised, seriously ill, or have a central line, check with your provider before starting probiotics.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

D-ribose

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Supplies ATP building blocks for tired cells

Why it may be relevant

If exhaustion and muscle fatigue dominate, D-ribose provides raw material your cells use to rebuild energy (ATP), a common choice for post-viral, CFS-type fatigue that overlaps with Long COVID.

Used for chronic-fatigue-syndrome-type exhaustion and low energy; the overlap with Long COVID is promising but not confirmed in controlled Long COVID trials.

Dose or use Commonly 5 g up to 2-3 times daily dissolved in water; start low and see how you respond, with provider guidance.

Key study Traditionally used for chronic-fatigue-type exhaustion; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-4 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May lower blood sugar, so use caution if diabetic or on glucose-lowering medication; can cause mild digestive upset.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Ginkgo biloba

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Traditionally supports circulation and cognition

Why it may be relevant

Ginkgo biloba has traditionally been used to support mental clarity and cognitive function, making it most relevant for brain fog symptoms.

Traditionally used to support cerebral circulation and cognitive performance; no modern clinical proof specific to Long COVID.

Dose or use 120–240 mg of standardized extract daily, typically in divided doses; consult a healthcare practitioner.

Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May interact with blood thinners and antiplatelet medications; avoid before surgery.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Ubiquinol/Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Fuels cellular energy production

Why it may be relevant

For deep fatigue, CoQ10 supports the mitochondria that power your cells, the energy machinery thought to be disrupted in Long COVID.

Widely used for fatigue and mitochondrial support and commonly trialed in post-viral and chronic-fatigue states, though not yet confirmed for Long COVID in controlled trials.

Dose or use Ubiquinol 100-200 mg daily with a fat-containing meal is a common range; check with your provider.

Key study Traditionally and widely used for energy and mitochondrial support; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; may interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) and some blood-pressure medications.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Vitamin D

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised

Corrects a common deficiency; not a cure

Why it may be relevant

When fatigue lingers, a low Vitamin D level is a sensible thing to rule out and correct, since Vitamin D supports immune and cellular function during recovery.

Best understood as a foundational deficiency-correction step rather than a proven fatigue treatment; correct a documented shortfall and don't expect it to fix Long COVID on its own.

Dose or use 1,000–2,000 IU daily is a common maintenance range; higher doses should be guided by a healthcare practitioner.

Key study No confirmed treatment claim: correcting a low Vitamin D level is a reasonable foundation step, and a large trial found only a borderline, non-significant hint that early supplementation might reduce the risk of developing Long COVID, not evidence it treats established fatigue.

EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Avoid very high doses without testing; may interact with certain medications.
Read the evidence →

What kind of recovery support fits me best?

I'd rather use calming, hands-on self-care — acupressure points and soothing sound to settle my system

Natural remedy

Sound therapy

Evidence grade C · No traditional record

Calms the nervous system via sound

Why it may be relevant

Sound-based therapies are most relevant for those experiencing anxiety, poor sleep, or nervous system dysregulation as part of Long COVID.

Suggested by a small pre-post pilot study in Long COVID patients, plus broader sound-therapy research on lowering stress and improving sleep; early and preliminary, not definitive.

Dose or use Listen to calming tones, singing-bowl, or Biosound-style sessions for about 20-30 min, once daily or as needed, in a quiet space.

Key study Pre-post pilot study (2024, PMID 38697866): Biosound Therapy as a treatment for long COVID patients, an uncontrolled feasibility pilot, preliminary and suggestive only.

EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsTypically 2–6 weeks
Caution: Check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medication, or manage a chronic condition.
Read the evidence →

Natural remedy

Acupressure

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Traditionally eases cognitive and stress symptoms

Why it may be relevant

Acupressure has traditionally been used to support mental clarity and reduce the mental fatigue associated with brain fog.

Traditionally used to stimulate specific pressure points believed to support energy flow, cognitive function, and stress relief.

Dose or use Press firmly 2–3 min, both sides, 1–2x daily on relevant points (e.g., PC6 for fatigue, GV20 for clarity); consult a practitioner for guidance.

Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2–6 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medication, or manage a chronic condition.
Read the evidence →

Pressure point

HT7 (Shenmen) - Heart 7

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Calming point for anxiety and restless sleep

Why it may be relevant

HT7, the 'Spirit Gate,' is the classic calming point for anxiety, nervous tension, and poor sleep, a gentle option when your nervous system feels on edge.

A traditional Chinese medicine point long used to calm the mind and ease insomnia; a low-risk self-care practice, not a proven Long COVID treatment.

Dose or use Press gently on HT7 (inner wrist crease, pinky side) for 2-3 min per side, 1-2x daily or before bed, breathing slowly.

Key study Traditionally used for anxiety and restless sleep; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeks with regular practiceTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid broken or irritated skin, and go gently if you bruise easily; a supportive practice, not a substitute for medical care.

Pressure point

ST36 (Zusanli)

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Classic acupressure point for energy

Why it may be relevant

ST36 is the best-known acupressure point for energy and fatigue, offering a gentle self-care option when exhaustion is your main struggle.

A traditional Chinese medicine point long used to tonify energy and support immunity; a low-risk self-care practice, not a proven Long COVID treatment.

Dose or use Press firmly on ST36 (just below the outer knee) for 2-3 min per side, 1-2x daily; breathe slowly as you hold.

Key study Traditionally used for energy and fatigue; this specific use in Long COVID has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeks with regular practiceTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid pressing on broken or irritated skin, and go gently if you bruise easily; a supportive practice, not a substitute for medical care.

Which part of Long COVID is hitting me hardest right now?

My energy just never came back — I want to check if my body is running low on something fixable

Nutrient gap worth checking

CoQ10 Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low CoQ10 can drive fatigue and weakness

Why it may be relevant

When bone-deep fatigue lingers, low CoQ10 is worth ruling out: it is central to how your cells make energy, and mitochondrial dysfunction is a leading hypothesis in Long COVID.

A root-cause check, not a treatment claim: if your CoQ10 is low, correcting it may support cellular energy. Ask your provider whether this fits your picture.

Dose or use This is a screening prompt: talk with your provider about whether checking or trialing CoQ10 makes sense for your fatigue.

Key study This is a root-cause deficiency check, not a proven Long COVID treatment; low CoQ10 is a plausible, testable contributor to persistent fatigue.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsVaries; energy changes often take several weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: CoQ10 status isn't part of routine bloodwork, so discuss it with your provider; supplemental CoQ10 may interact with blood thinners.

Nutrient gap worth checking

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low B12 causes fatigue and foggy thinking

Why it may be relevant

Persistent fatigue plus cloudy thinking can point to low B12, a cheap and correctable deficiency worth ruling out during post-viral recovery.

A root-cause check, not a treatment claim: B12 deficiency produces fatigue and cognitive difficulty, so testing can rule out an easily fixable cause.

Dose or use Ask your provider for a simple blood test to check your B12 level before supplementing.

Key study This is a root-cause deficiency check, not a proven Long COVID treatment; correcting a documented shortfall may support energy and clarity.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically several weeks after correctionTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Confirm with testing; untreated deficiency can cause serious neurological effects, so involve your provider.

Natural remedy

Vitamin D

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised

Corrects a common deficiency; not a cure

Why it may be relevant

When fatigue lingers, a low Vitamin D level is a sensible thing to rule out and correct, since Vitamin D supports immune and cellular function during recovery.

Best understood as a foundational deficiency-correction step rather than a proven fatigue treatment; correct a documented shortfall and don't expect it to fix Long COVID on its own.

Dose or use 1,000–2,000 IU daily is a common maintenance range; higher doses should be guided by a healthcare practitioner.

Key study No confirmed treatment claim: correcting a low Vitamin D level is a reasonable foundation step, and a large trial found only a borderline, non-significant hint that early supplementation might reduce the risk of developing Long COVID, not evidence it treats established fatigue.

EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Avoid very high doses without testing; may interact with certain medications.
Read the evidence →

Nutrient gap worth checking

Vitamin D Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low D may worsen fatigue and recovery

Why it may be relevant

If you're experiencing persistent fatigue, checking whether low Vitamin D is a contributing factor is a practical first step.

If you're low in Vitamin D, correcting the deficiency may support your immune system and overall energy during Long COVID recovery.

Dose or use Ask your healthcare provider for a blood test to check your Vitamin D level before supplementing.

Key study Correcting a documented shortfall can support recovery; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim — ask your provider to test your levels.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 6–12 weeks after correctionTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Deficiency is common but levels should be tested before high-dose supplementation.

What kind of recovery support fits me best?

I'd rather get tested first — find out what's actually depleted before taking anything

Nutrient gap worth checking

CoQ10 Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low CoQ10 can drive fatigue and weakness

Why it may be relevant

When bone-deep fatigue lingers, low CoQ10 is worth ruling out: it is central to how your cells make energy, and mitochondrial dysfunction is a leading hypothesis in Long COVID.

A root-cause check, not a treatment claim: if your CoQ10 is low, correcting it may support cellular energy. Ask your provider whether this fits your picture.

Dose or use This is a screening prompt: talk with your provider about whether checking or trialing CoQ10 makes sense for your fatigue.

Key study This is a root-cause deficiency check, not a proven Long COVID treatment; low CoQ10 is a plausible, testable contributor to persistent fatigue.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsVaries; energy changes often take several weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: CoQ10 status isn't part of routine bloodwork, so discuss it with your provider; supplemental CoQ10 may interact with blood thinners.

Nutrient gap worth checking

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low B12 causes fatigue and foggy thinking

Why it may be relevant

Persistent fatigue plus cloudy thinking can point to low B12, a cheap and correctable deficiency worth ruling out during post-viral recovery.

A root-cause check, not a treatment claim: B12 deficiency produces fatigue and cognitive difficulty, so testing can rule out an easily fixable cause.

Dose or use Ask your provider for a simple blood test to check your B12 level before supplementing.

Key study This is a root-cause deficiency check, not a proven Long COVID treatment; correcting a documented shortfall may support energy and clarity.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically several weeks after correctionTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Confirm with testing; untreated deficiency can cause serious neurological effects, so involve your provider.

Nutrient gap worth checking

Vitamin D Deficiency

Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing

Low D may worsen fatigue and recovery

Why it may be relevant

If you're experiencing persistent fatigue, checking whether low Vitamin D is a contributing factor is a practical first step.

If you're low in Vitamin D, correcting the deficiency may support your immune system and overall energy during Long COVID recovery.

Dose or use Ask your healthcare provider for a blood test to check your Vitamin D level before supplementing.

Key study Correcting a documented shortfall can support recovery; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim — ask your provider to test your levels.

EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 6–12 weeks after correctionTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Deficiency is common but levels should be tested before high-dose supplementation.

Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Long Covid, not a promise of results. A higher grade is not a personal recommendation. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.

How people describe Long Covid

The same problem, in the words people actually search for.

The evidence behind Long Covid, in one page

We track 9 natural options for Long Covid — what each is typically used for, usual dose, cautions, and the study behind the ones with real trial data.

One email with the summary. We'll also send a short weekly evidence update — unsubscribe any time.

Build your plan in the app

Build and track your natural-health plan for Long Covid in the app.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Reviewed by the HealisticMD editorial team How we grade evidence →