Whether you need energy to get through your busy work day or you want to have energy to stay healthy, there are certain herbs you can take that will help give you the extra boost you need. But which ones do you need?
Ashwagandha
Adding ashwagandha herb to your diet is a great way to increase your energy level. It may also help with athletic performance. In some studies, ashwagandha has been shown to improve muscle strength, and reduce anxiety symptoms.
The plant can be used in raw or cooked forms. It is easy to grow in a greenhouse, and can survive in a tropical climate year-round. The root has been used for thousands of years for many different medicinal purposes. It is considered safe for most people. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, or those with thyroid problems.
Ashwagandha is used in herbal medicine as a tincture, powder, and tablet. It is best taken in small doses to achieve a balancing effect. You can add a little powder to your favorite smoothie, or mix it in granola or overnight oats.
In a study of healthy, athletic adults, taking ashwagandha before exercise increased the athlete’s maximum oxygen consumption. This is a measure of heart and lung fitness, and is associated with lower mortality rates.
Several pharmacological actions of ashwagandha include enhancing mental stamina, reducing inflammation, and modulating the immune system. The constituents of the plant have also been shown to promote white and red blood cell production. Its ability to normalize cortisol levels is also believed to be a factor in preventing stress.
Ginkgo
Besides its many beneficial effects on the body, ginkgo also gives you energy. It is known to promote good circulation, increase oxygen to the brain and reduce inflammation. The herb is used to treat conditions such as fibromyalgia, a disorder of the nervous system.
Ginkgo is rich in antioxidants, which combat the harmful effects of free radicals. These reactive particles are believed to be responsible for a variety of diseases. Increasing a person’s antioxidants could help them to prevent disease. ginkgo is also known to improve memory and mental capability.
Several studies have shown that ginkgo biloba can help to slow the onset of Alzheimer’s. Research has also shown that it can reduce symptoms of acute mountain sickness. Moreover, ginkgo has been found to be helpful in reducing headaches and muscle pain.
Another study showed that ginkgo may have positive effects on mental health and depression. In addition, it has been found to improve the responses of patients to antipsychotic drugs. It has also been shown to increase the number of circulating nitric oxide in the blood. The nitric oxide is responsible for the dilation of blood vessels. Increasing nitric oxide can benefit a person’s mental and physical performance.
Maca
Whether you are suffering from fatigue or simply need a pick-me-up, maca can be a great way to get a boost of energy. Unlike many energizers on the market, maca is safe to take, even for those who have sensitive conditions. It is a rich source of antioxidants, which can help fight off free radicals that can cause cell damage. It also contains iron, calcium, potassium, copper, and vitamins B6, C, and K.
Studies have shown that the antioxidants in maca root can help prevent cancer. It is also believed to help protect the body against stress and the effects of free radicals.
Traditionally, people in the Andes have used maca as a medicinal plant. It is said to help balance mood and improve memory. Some early research suggests that maca may reduce symptoms of depression.
Another study found that taking maca for four months significantly improved sperm count in men. In addition, the study reported that men with erectile dysfunction experienced a boost in libido. However, a lot of the health benefits are anecdotal and there are still more tests to be done to fully understand how maca works.
Although most of the research has been conducted on animals, the benefits of maca are not yet known in humans. Adaptogens are herbal pharmaceuticals that counteract disturbances to the homeostasis caused by stress. They are also said to help balance hormones and support the immune system.
Reishi mushroom
Historically, the reishi mushroom has been used as a tonic to improve health and energy. It is also thought to provide immune system support. Its benefits include reducing cholesterol, supporting liver and kidney function, and strengthening the cardiovascular system.
The reishi mushroom can be eaten fresh, or it can be purchased as a supplement. It contains numerous biologically active molecules including mannitol, sterols, and polysaccharides. These constituents are thought to be responsible for its powerful antioxidant qualities.
The reishi mushroom is considered an adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body cope with stress. In addition, it strengthens the immune system and promotes heart and liver health.
Scientists have conducted human studies to identify the compounds in reishi that may be effective in fighting illness. They have found that the mushroom’s extract can increase the amount of natural killer cells in the body. These cells are known to combat cancer and infections.
It has been suggested that the reishi mushroom can help to protect the brain from seizures. The reishi mushroom also has the ability to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels. This can be a beneficial effect in people suffering from chronic pain or musculoskeletal disorders. It has also been shown to reduce fatigue and anxiety.
Eleuthero
Known as the King of Adaptogens, Eleuthero is an herb that can give you the energy you need to keep going. It has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal herb in traditional Chinese and Russian medicine. It’s considered an adaptogen, which is a naturally occurring substance that stabilizes the body’s response to stress. It can also promote physical stamina and mental resilience.
In addition to providing a boost of energy, eleuthero can improve blood flow and increase your VO2 max. It can also reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. It has also been shown to decrease insulin resistance. It may also help you fight off depression. It can also lower lactic acid buildup.
In the past, eleuthero was not widely known in the west, but it has been recently studied by researchers in many countries. The Soviets began to study the herb in the 1960s, but it was only recently that westerners discovered its potential.
Eleuthero is a herb that can be taken as a tea or pill. The most potent preparation is a 2:1 tincture. This supplement can be bought online or at most health food stores in the United States. It is generally safe to take as a supplement, but it can sometimes be too strong. It is also advised to only use eleuthero under the supervision of a physician.
Rosemary
Several studies have shown that Rosemary is a powerful herb that gives you energy. In fact, it may help you boost memory and concentration and improve blood circulation. It also can protect against oxidative damage.
Rosemary contains carnosic acid, a powerful antioxidant. This compound helps fight free radicals that can damage the brain and cause a variety of disorders. It also stimulates the liver to produce bile, which is important for digestion.
Studies show that rosemary reduces inflammation. It may be beneficial for a variety of gastrointestinal complaints, including constipation. Its volatile oils are also helpful in easing psychological tension.
It is best to consult your healthcare provider before incorporating rosemary into your diet. Some people might experience allergic reactions. However, it is considered safe in small doses. Large amounts of rosemary can irritate the kidneys. It is best to avoid taking it by mouth if you are pregnant.
It has been used as a traditional plant medicine for thousands of years. It was believed to ward off evil spirits. It was also used as a purification agent. During the 14th century, people rubbed rosemary on their bodies to ward off plague.
It is often associated with Aphrodite, the Goddess of love. This herb has been used for centuries to attract love and to purify the heart. It can also increase fertility.
Stinging nettle
Hundreds of years ago, medieval Europeans used stinging nettle to treat pain and joint problems. The plant’s spines and fine hairs contain chemicals that may reduce inflammation and relieve pain. The nettle also helps regulate blood sugar levels.
It’s possible that stinging nettle can also help with arthritis and allergies. Research has shown that the chemicals in stinging nettle inhibit the body’s production of inflammatory hormones and interfere with the pain signals. In addition, it may help to reduce the symptoms of urinary tract infections.
If you’re considering a supplement, it’s important to read the label carefully to make sure it’s safe for you. Some supplements may interact with other medications, so it’s best to check with your doctor before taking a new product.
Stinging nettle is an herb that has been used to treat pain and hay fever for many years. It’s also found to be beneficial in controlling blood sugar and helping the pancreas produce more insulin.
It’s important to be careful when using stinging nettle for these conditions. Pregnant women should avoid stinging nettle. It’s also possible to become allergic to stinging nettle. It may also cause diarrhea and sweating.
Depending on the manufacturer, stinging nettle may contain varying amounts of active ingredients. It’s important to find a quality brand of stinging nettle supplements.