Can Thorne Daily Greens Plus Support Energy and Resilience in Long COVID and ME/CFS?

At its core, Thorne Daily Greens Plus is designed to provide a comprehensive baseline of micronutrients, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. The foundation of this formula is its greens blend, which includes matcha, spirulina, moringa, and kelp. In a healthy body, these ingredients serve as dense sources of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids required for daily metabolic processes. Spirulina, a blue-green algae, is particularly rich in phycocyanin, a potent antioxidant compound that research suggests helps neutralize free radicals and modulate systemic inflammation. Moringa provides a robust profile of vitamins A, C, and E, alongside essential minerals like calcium and potassium, which are critical for maintaining cellular membrane integrity and proper enzymatic function.

Furthermore, the inclusion of kelp provides a natural source of iodine, a trace mineral absolutely essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). These hormones dictate the basal metabolic rate of every cell in the body. Matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown green tea leaves, delivers high concentrations of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a well-documented polyphenol that supports cardiovascular health and enhances the body's natural detoxification pathways by upregulating phase II liver enzymes. Together, this greens blend ensures that the body has the fundamental building blocks required to initiate cellular repair and maintain homeostasis.

Beyond basic nutrition, this formula incorporates a sophisticated blend of adaptogenic herbs, most notably Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea). Adaptogens are unique botanical substances that help the body resist biological, chemical, and physical stressors by modulating the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is the central command center for the body's stress response, controlling the release of cortisol and adrenaline. In a healthy state, cortisol levels follow a diurnal rhythm—highest in the morning to wake us up, and lowest at night to allow for sleep. Adaptogens work not by stimulating the body, but by "re-educating" this axis, helping to lower cortisol when it is too high and gently supporting it when it is depleted.

Ashwagandha exerts its effects primarily through bioactive compounds known as withanolides. These compounds act as neuroendocrine modulators, and clinical studies have shown they can significantly reduce perceived stress and lower serum cortisol levels by mimicking the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. Rhodiola, on the other hand, contains rosavins and salidrosides, which enhance the activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine while inducing stress-protection mechanisms such as heat shock proteins. By modulating a stress-activated protein kinase (JNK), Rhodiola helps restore normal cortisol receptor sensitivity, which is often blunted during periods of chronic stress.

The most clinically compelling aspect of this formulation for chronic illness patients is its inclusion of targeted mitochondrial and antioxidant compounds, specifically Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Phytosome, Quercetin Phytosome, and Trans-Resveratrol. Mitochondria are the cellular powerhouses responsible for generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the body. NR is a highly efficient precursor to Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme essential for the electron transport chain within the mitochondria. Without adequate NAD+, the mitochondria simply cannot produce ATP, leading to profound cellular fatigue.

CoQ10 works synergistically with NR; it acts as an electron carrier within the inner mitochondrial membrane, shuttling electrons between complexes I, II, and III of the electron transport chain. Meanwhile, Quercetin and Resveratrol serve as powerful polyphenolic antioxidants. They activate SIRT1 (often called the "longevity gene") and AMPK pathways, which promote mitochondrial biogenesis—the creation of new, healthy mitochondria. Additionally, Quercetin is a renowned natural mast cell stabilizer, physically binding to mast cells to prevent the release of histamine and inflammatory cytokines, making it a crucial component for immune regulation.

To understand why a comprehensive supplement like this is relevant, we must examine how conditions like Long COVID and ME/CFS dismantle the body's normal physiological processes. One of the primary drivers of the debilitating fatigue and post-exertional malaise (PEM) seen in these conditions is severe mitochondrial dysfunction. When the body is fighting a severe viral infection, the immune system consumes massive amounts of cellular resources. Specifically, research indicates that viral replication and the subsequent immune response drastically deplete the body's stores of NAD+. This depletion creates a systemic energy crisis; the mitochondria are left without the necessary coenzymes to drive oxidative phosphorylation, resulting in a dramatic drop in ATP production.

When cells cannot produce enough ATP aerobically (using oxygen), they are forced to rely on inefficient anaerobic glycolysis. This process produces very little energy and generates high amounts of lactic acid, leading to the heavy, burning muscle fatigue and profound exhaustion that patients experience even after minimal exertion. This metabolic shift is a hallmark of ME/CFS and is increasingly recognized as a core component of Long COVID. If you want to learn more about how these two conditions overlap, you can read our detailed guide on Can Long COVID Trigger ME/CFS? Unraveling the Connection.

Another major factor in these complex chronic illnesses is persistent immune dysregulation and chronic inflammation. In many Long COVID patients, the immune system fails to return to a baseline state of rest after the initial infection is cleared. Instead, it remains locked in a hyperactive state, continuously pumping out pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α). This persistent inflammation damages the endothelial lining of blood vessels, contributing to the formation of micro-clots and impairing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, particularly the brain and muscles. For a deeper dive into this topic, explore our article on Autoimmunity and Immune Dysregulation in Long COVID.

Furthermore, this inflammatory environment often triggers Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). Mast cells are immune cells that store inflammatory mediators like histamine. In MCAS, these cells become highly unstable and degranulate inappropriately in response to minor triggers like food, temperature changes, or stress. This flood of histamine causes systemic symptoms ranging from brain fog and tachycardia to severe gastrointestinal distress and skin rashes. The continuous activation of mast cells creates a vicious cycle of inflammation that further suppresses mitochondrial function and exacerbates fatigue.

The relentless physical stress of chronic inflammation, combined with the emotional toll of living with an invisible illness, places an enormous burden on the nervous system and the HPA axis. Initially, the body may respond to this stress by pumping out high levels of cortisol, leaving patients feeling "wired and tired," anxious, and unable to achieve restorative sleep. Over time, however, the adrenal glands can become exhausted, and the HPA axis may downregulate its output, leading to hypocortisolism (low cortisol).

This state of adrenal exhaustion manifests as profound lethargy, orthostatic intolerance (difficulty standing), and an inability to cope with even minor physical or emotional stressors. The dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, a condition known as dysautonomia, further complicates the clinical picture, causing erratic heart rates and blood pressure fluctuations. Understanding How Does a Doctor Diagnose Long COVID? often involves evaluating these overlapping systems—the mitochondria, the immune system, and the autonomic nervous system—to identify the root causes of a patient's specific symptom profile.

Thorne Daily Greens Plus provides a multi-targeted approach to addressing the complex pathophysiology of chronic invisible illnesses. The most direct intervention for the cellular energy crisis comes from the inclusion of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) and Coenzyme Q10 Phytosome. By supplementing with NR, a highly bioavailable precursor, the body can rapidly rebuild its depleted NAD+ pool. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that NR supplementation can increase whole-blood NAD+ levels by up to 3-fold in Long COVID patients. This restoration of NAD+ reactivates the SIRT1 pathway, which signals the cell to clear out damaged mitochondria (mitophagy) and build new, efficient ones (mitochondrial biogenesis).

Simultaneously, the CoQ10 Phytosome provides the necessary electron carriers to optimize the newly repaired electron transport chain. CoQ10 acts as the vital spark plug that allows the mitochondria to convert the electrons derived from food into usable ATP. By combining NR and CoQ10, this formula addresses two distinct bottlenecks in mitochondrial energy production. This synergistic action helps shift the body away from inefficient, lactic-acid-producing anaerobic metabolism back to robust aerobic energy production, directly targeting the root cause of post-exertional malaise (PEM) and cellular fatigue.

To combat the persistent immune dysregulation and hyper-reactivity seen in Long COVID and MCAS, this formula utilizes the medicinal mushroom Reishi and the flavonoid Quercetin Phytosome. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a profound immunomodulator. It contains specific beta-glucans and triterpenes that interact with pattern recognition receptors on immune cells. Clinical research indicates that when the immune system is overactive, Reishi downregulates the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, helping to calm the cytokine storm that drives systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation.

Quercetin Phytosome complements this by acting as a powerful, natural mast cell stabilizer. In patients with MCAS, mast cells are excessively fragile. Quercetin physically binds to the mast cell membrane, inhibiting the intracellular signaling pathways (such as ERK1/2 and STAT3) that trigger degranulation. By preventing the release of histamine and leukotrienes, Quercetin helps alleviate the systemic allergic-like symptoms, brain fog, and vascular inflammation associated with immune hyper-reactivity. For patients exploring pharmaceutical options for mast cell stabilization, our guide on Ketotifen: Unveiling Relief for the Hidden Battles of MCAS provides additional context on managing these complex immune responses.

To address the profound nervous system dysregulation and adrenal strain, Daily Greens Plus leverages the adaptogenic power of Ashwagandha and Rhodiola. These herbs work synergistically to restore homeostasis to the HPA axis. Ashwagandha acts as a calming agent; its withanolides mimic GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that quiets the central nervous system. This helps lower chronically elevated cortisol levels, reducing the "wired and tired" sensation and promoting the deep, restorative sleep that is so often elusive for ME/CFS patients.

Conversely, Rhodiola provides a more uplifting, resilience-building effect. Studies show that Rhodiola enhances the sensitivity of cortisol receptors and improves oxygen utilization within the cells. This helps combat the physical weakness, burnout, and brain fog associated with adrenal exhaustion. By combining a calming adaptogen (Ashwagandha) with an energizing one (Rhodiola), the formula provides a balanced modulation of the nervous system, helping patients build resilience against both physical exertion and emotional stress, which is crucial for managing the mental health impacts of chronic illness, as discussed in our article on Long COVID and Mental Health.

When evaluating any supplement, the actual absorption rate—or bioavailability—is just as important as the ingredients themselves. Many potent plant compounds, such as quercetin and CoQ10, are notoriously difficult for the human digestive tract to absorb. Standard quercetin, for example, is highly water-insoluble and is rapidly metabolized and excreted by the liver before it can reach therapeutic levels in the bloodstream. To solve this critical issue, Thorne Daily Greens Plus utilizes advanced "Phytosome" technology for its most stubborn ingredients.

A Phytosome is created by binding the active botanical extract (like Quercetin or CoQ10) to phospholipids derived from sunflower oil. Because human cell membranes are also made of phospholipids, the body recognizes and absorbs these Phytosome complexes with remarkable efficiency. Clinical pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated that Quercetin Phytosome can be up to 20 times more bioavailable than standard quercetin extracts. This ensures that the active compounds actually reach the systemic circulation, where they can stabilize mast cells, cross the blood-brain barrier to reduce neuroinflammation, and enter the mitochondria to support energy production.

Because Thorne Daily Greens Plus contains a complex matrix of 28 active ingredients, including adaptogens and mitochondrial optimizers, timing is an important consideration. The presence of Rhodiola, Nicotinamide Riboside, and CoQ10 means this formula has a distinct energy-supporting profile. For most patients, particularly those with ME/CFS or Long COVID who struggle with insomnia or reversed cortisol curves, it is highly recommended to take this supplement in the morning or early afternoon. Taking it too late in the day may stimulate ATP production and neurotransmitter activity to a degree that interferes with sleep onset.

The suggested use is one level scoop mixed with at least 12 ounces of water or a preferred beverage. Because the formula contains fat-soluble components (like Vitamin D3 and the Phytosome complexes), taking it alongside a meal that contains healthy fats (such as avocado, olive oil, or nuts) can further enhance the absorption of these critical nutrients. For patients with severe gastrointestinal sensitivity or MCAS, it is often wise to start with a quarter or half scoop to assess tolerance before working up to the full recommended dose.

While the ingredients in Daily Greens Plus are generally recognized as safe, their biological potency means they can interact with certain medications and underlying conditions. Quercetin, particularly in its highly absorbable form, can act as an inhibitor of the COMT enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters like dopamine and adrenaline. In sensitive individuals, high daily doses without breaks might lead to a buildup of these excitatory neurotransmitters, causing temporary anxiety or jitteriness. Additionally, quercetin and resveratrol can mildly inhibit CYP3A4 liver enzymes, which may alter the metabolism of certain prescription medications, including blood thinners and some psychiatric drugs.

Furthermore, Ashwagandha has been shown in some studies to mildly stimulate thyroid hormone production. While this can be beneficial for those with sluggish thyroid function, individuals with hyperthyroidism or those taking precise doses of thyroid replacement medication should monitor their levels closely. Finally, the product label explicitly states a warning: "If pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive, do not use this product," due to the potent hormonal modulation effects of the adaptogens and resveratrol. Always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing a complex, multi-ingredient formula into your chronic illness management protocol.

The scientific rationale for using the compounds found in Thorne Daily Greens Plus to treat post-viral fatigue syndromes is rapidly expanding. In late 2025, a landmark randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial investigating Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) for Long COVID was published in eClinicalMedicine. The 24-week trial involving 58 Long COVID patients proved that NR supplementation effectively targets the NAD+ deficit, increasing whole-blood NAD+ levels by 2.6- to 3.1-fold. While the trial did not find statistically significant differences against the placebo group for its primary endpoints, exploratory analyses revealed significant within-group improvements in fatigue, sleep quality, and executive functioning after 10 weeks of NR supplementation.

Similarly, Coenzyme Q10 has been extensively studied for ME/CFS. A notable 12-week prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial by Castro-Marrero et al. evaluated 207 patients with ME/CFS who were given CoQ10 alongside NADH. The experimental group showed a highly significant reduction in cognitive fatigue perception and overall fatigue scores compared to the placebo. Patients also exhibited statistically significant improvements in Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and sleep duration, underscoring the vital role of electron transport chain support in managing chronic fatigue.

The adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms in this formula are also backed by robust clinical data. The efficacy of Rhodiola for post-viral recovery was highlighted in the 2022 Chisan / ADAPT-232 Trial, a quadruple-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 100 patients with Long COVID. The study found that a Rhodiola-based adaptogenic formula significantly reduced the duration of severe fatigue and pain, increased physical activity tolerance, and relieved respiratory insufficiency compared to the placebo. Furthermore, Ashwagandha is currently the subject of the massive APRIL Trial in the UK, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety in up to 2,500 Long COVID patients.

Regarding immune modulation, a published clinical case study in MDPI evaluated the use of Reishi extract (alongside CoQ10 and other antioxidants) in a patient suffering from severe Long COVID neurological symptoms and fatigue. After 6 weeks of treatment, the patient reported the complete resolution of systemic neurological symptoms, including severe physical weakness. Additionally, Quercetin Phytosome has been shown in multiple clinical trials to speed up viral clearance and reduce systemic inflammation, solidifying the scientific foundation for combining these specific ingredients to combat complex, multi-system chronic illnesses.

Living with Long COVID, ME/CFS, dysautonomia, or MCAS is a profoundly challenging journey. The exhaustion is real, the cognitive impairment is frustrating, and the unpredictable nature of symptom flares can take a heavy emotional toll. It is crucial to remember that your symptoms are rooted in measurable, physiological dysfunctions—from mitochondrial energy deficits and depleted NAD+ pools to hyperactive mast cells and an overstressed HPA axis. Validating the biological reality of your illness is the first step toward effective management.

While Thorne Daily Greens Plus provides a powerful, scientifically backed array of nutrients to support cellular repair, it is not a standalone cure. True management of complex chronic illness requires a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach. Supplements must be paired with aggressive rest, meticulous symptom tracking, and strict pacing to avoid triggering post-exertional malaise. By providing your cells with the foundational nutrition, mitochondrial coenzymes, and immune modulators they desperately need, you are laying the groundwork for greater resilience and an improved quality of life.

If you are struggling with profound fatigue, brain fog, or immune hyper-reactivity, integrating a comprehensive foundational formula may provide the systemic support your body requires to begin the healing process. Always remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are taking prescription medications or managing severe autonomic or immune dysfunctions.