7 Herbal Remedies For Energy Boosting
In today’s fast-paced world, many people rely on strong stimulants to get through the day. From coffee to energy drinks, these stimulants can provide quick spikes of energy. Unfortunately, these spikes are often followed by big crashes later on.
The good news? Coffee and energy drinks aren’t your only energy-boosting options. If you want to overcome the daily afternoon slump, herbal remedies have a lot to offer.
So, what herbs are best for energy? Below, we’ll explain the benefits of using herbs for energy. After that, we’ll discuss seven herbs that combat low energy that you can swap out for your daily cup of joe.
The Benefits of Herbs for Energy
There are many reasons you may be feeling lethargic and fatigued throughout the day: a poor night’s sleep, an unbalanced diet, chronic stress, or the daily roller coaster of coffee consumption are just a few that might come to mind.
Fortunately, herbs can address many of these low-energy issues at the source. That’s because energy-boosting herbs often contain:
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Natural stimulants – Some herbs contain low levels of caffeine and other stimulants.[1] In turn, they may enhance feelings of alertness without inducing the strong-coffee jitters.
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Adaptogens – Adaptogenic herbs can help your body restore its balance. Some adaptogenic herbs may help your body maintain steady energy levels throughout the day, even in the face of stress or restlessness.[2]
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Antioxidants – Antioxidants neutralize free radicals in the body, protecting your cells from their damaging effects.[3] By keeping your cells strong and healthy, herbs that contain antioxidants may also increase your energy levels.
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Anti-inflammatory properties – Chronic inflammation is linked to fatigue.[4] By reducing inflammation in the body, some herbs may help mitigate fatigue and bring your energy levels back up to baseline.[5]
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Circulation-enhancing effects – Healthy circulation ensures that your body receives the oxygen it needs. Herbs that promote circulation can support your body’s mitochondria energy production and enable your body to use its energy more efficiently.[6]
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Sleep support – Some herbs may combat insomnia and improve sleep quality, restoring your body’s energy reserves and leaving you feeling more well-rested.[7]
- Enhanced mental clarity – By sharpening your mental clarity and improving cognitive function, some herbs can help you stay focused and alert all day long.[8]
- Healthy nutrients – Whether you get them from your diet or herbal remedies, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can improve your energy levels and have additional health benefits.[9]
Note: While herbs can be beneficial in many cases, you should always consult with your doctor before trying a new herbal remedy. Some herbs may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions. Herbs can also interact with some medications.
7 Top Herbs for Energy Boosting
Now that you know the potential benefits of herbal remedies for energy, let’s take a look at seven stimulating herbs that can give your day some extra oomph.
#1 Ginseng Root
Ginseng root is an invigorating herb with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. While there are 11 different varieties of ginseng root, American ginseng and Asian ginseng are the most popular energy boosters.[10]
The current research on ginseng root is rather limited, but initial studies show promising results.[11] According to one randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, a ginseng herbal supplement helped participants with chronic fatigue improve their energy levels.[12] Ginseng may also improve cognitive function, according to a 2018 study.[13]
While ginseng is generally considered safe, it may interact with medications that are used to treat blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and heart disease.[14] As such, you should talk to your doctor before adding it to your daily routine.
#2 Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is an evergreen shrub found in Africa, India, and the Middle East.[15]This powerful adaptogen has historically been used in Ayurvedic medicine to increase energy.[16] Recent research shows that Ashwagandha may help boost energy by:
- Regulating cortisol levels[17]
- Reducing inflammation[18]
- Easing anxiety[19]
- Enhancing brain function[20]
Ashwagandha is an amazing herb for sleep. A 2020 study showed that older adults who took a daily dose of ashwagandha root experienced superior sleep quality, mental alertness, and overall well-being.[21] Another study showed that this herb may improve cellular energy production.[22]
Ashwagandha is safe for most people when taken for a few months, but long-term use of this herb has not been well-researched yet.[23] You may want to consult with your healthcare provider before trying ashwagandha if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have an autoimmune or thyroid disease, or are preparing for an upcoming surgery.[24] Ashwagandha can also interact with some medications.
#3 Gotu Kola
Grown in the wetlands of Southeast Asia, Gotu kola is known as the “herb of longevity” in Chinese medicine. It’s historically been heralded for its anti-inflammatory effects.[25]
Some research suggests that this herb may improve working memory and alertness. It is also one of the best herbs for mood improvement.[26] Another study showed that two months of Gotu kola supplementation improved participants’ attention and brain function and reduced their anxiety and mental fatigue.[27]
Due to its limited research, Gotu Kola shouldn’t be used daily for more than six weeks at a time. You should also avoid Gota kola if you have liver disease or take medications that affect the liver.[28]
#4 Maca
Maca is a cruciferous plant that grows in the Andes mountains. It’s a popular ingredient in Peruvian cooking. It’s also commonly sold as a powder and used as a dietary supplement.
Maca is prized for its energy-boosting benefits. Studies show that maca supplementation may boost energy levels and reduce anxiety.[29] These benefits may be due to maca’s flavonoids and antioxidants.
When taken in moderate doses, maca hasn’t been shown to have significant health risks. However, people who have thyroid problems or are undergoing hormonal treatments may want to avoid maca before consulting with their healthcare provider.[30]
#5 Rhodiola Rosea
Also known as arctic root or golden root, Rhodiola rosea is a potent adaptogen that’s been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It grows in cold, high altitudes across Europe and Asia.
While more research is needed, Rhodiola rosea may help combat stress-related fatigue, enhance attention, and boost mental clarity.[31] Research suggests that it may have energy-boosting benefits for people who suffer from chronic fatigue.[32] Rhodiola rosea may also promote better sleep at night.
If you struggle with burnout, this herb can also come in handy. A 2017 study found that 12 weeks of daily Rhodiola rosea extract alleviated participants’ feelings of burnout and exhaustion and improved their concentration and mood.[33]
#6 Kava Kava
Kava kava, or kava for short, is a plant that grows on islands within the Pacific Ocean. It’s been used in traditional ceremonies and alternative medicine for centuries. Kava contains kava pyrones, which can induce a calm feeling of contentment.[34]
In recent years, clinical research has confirmed some of kava’s traditionally recognized benefits. For instance, a six-week 2013 study found that kava extract has a positive impact on people with anxiety disorders.[35] By reducing occasional anxiety, kava is one of the most beneficial herbs for focus, and may help promote alertness and higher energy levels.[36]
Kava can be consumed in tablet, tincture, or tea form. While kava consumption can be safe in moderation, it can cause liver damage when combined with alcohol or consumed excessively.[37] Kava shouldn’t be consumed during pregnancy or combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or antidepressants.
#7 Kola Nut
The kola nut is found within the star-shaped fruit that grows on kola trees of West African rainforests. When chewed like gum, kola nuts can become sweeter over time. For this reason, kola nut extract is a popular flavoring in many sodas, including Coca-Cola.
The kola nut is a natural stimulant and antioxidant. It contains caffeine and theobromine, along with potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Some potential benefits of consuming kola nut include:[38]
- Better circulation
- Improved digestion
- Increased metabolism
- Higher energy levels
- Enhanced alertness
While kola nut can be an invigorating energy booster, it’s not for everyone. If you have high blood pressure, a cardiac condition, are sensitive to caffeine, or are pregnant, don’t consume kola nut.
How to Use Herbs for Energy
Once you find energy-boosting herbs that are right for you, you can prepare them in a variety of ways. Herbal remedies can be enjoyed as:
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Teas – Many herbs can be steeped in hot water and consumed as tea. Ginseng and Rhodiola are two popular examples.
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Herbal Supplements – From maca root to ashwagandha, many herbs can also be consumed conveniently in supplement form.
- Tonics – Herbal tonics contain concentrated solutions of one or more herbs. At Botanic Tonics, our feel free CLASSIC tonic contains kava root and leaf kratom.
Boost Your Energy Naturally With feel free
If you’re eager to find an alternative energy tonic, an herbal remedy may be right for you. At feel free, our kava capsules and tonics can deliver the feel-good energy boost you’re after. These two clean energy enhancers can invigorate your body and mind without the caffeine jitters or crash.
All of our herbal supplements are plant-based, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, and keto-friendly. They’re also third-party tested and made in the USA, so you can enjoy them with confidence.
Want to enjoy more energy and vibrancy? Try the feel free CLASSIC tonic or capsules from Botanic Tonics today.
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