Are There Energizing Herbs for the Body?
Before addressing the question of whether there are herbs that energize the body, it’s essential to emphasize that maintaining focus, energy, and vitality is best achieved through a healthy lifestyle. There are several herbs and herbal supplements that may play a role in enhancing bodily energy and improving brain functions.
However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before consuming any herbs or dietary supplements, as some medicinal plants may interact with certain medications and could have potential side effects. Below, we highlight some herbs believed to be beneficial for energizing the body:
Guarana
The guarana plant, also known as Paullinia cupana, may help improve memory impairments linked to hyperlipidemia, according to a laboratory study published in the journal Physiology and Behavior in 2017. Furthermore, guarana has shown promising results in alleviating fatigue associated with various cancer types, as reported in a research study published in the book Bioactive Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements in Neurological and Brain Disease in 2015.
Originating from Brazil, guarana is a climbing plant with mature fruits roughly the size of coffee beans. A significant portion of its harvest is used in energy drinks and sodas, while the remainder is processed into powders. Notably, guarana contains a considerable amount of caffeine, which necessitates caution and a doctor’s consultation if one suffers from the following health conditions:
- Cardiovascular diseases.
- High blood pressure.
- Anxiety.
- Bleeding disorders.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- Osteoporosis.
- Glaucoma.
- Diarrhea.
Yerba Mate
Yerba mate may enhance exercise effectiveness due to its role in boosting athletic performance and aiding weight loss through improved fatty acid oxidation, as evidenced by a clinical study published in Nutrients in 2017. It is noteworthy that a cup of yerba mate contains approximately 85 mg of caffeine, which is less than a cup of coffee but more than a cup of tea.
Consulting with a healthcare provider before consuming yerba mate is recommended, especially for individuals with the following health issues:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Anxiety.
- Bleeding disorders.
- Heart diseases.
- High blood pressure.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
Rhodiola Rosea
Known as the golden root, Rhodiola rosea has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Many individuals utilize it to enhance physical performance before workouts and to boost concentration and cognitive abilities. Ethanol extracts of the golden root have been found to effectively treat chronic fatigue, as shown in a laboratory study published in Complementary Medicine Research in 2017.
Golden root is a flowering plant that thrives in high-altitude, cold regions of Europe and Asia. However, caution is advised, and consulting a doctor is recommended before use in the following cases:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, among others.
Green Tea
Studies regarding the impact of green tea on athletic performance have been mixed. An earlier clinical trial indicated that green tea supplements did not enhance physical performance among trained endurance athletes. Conversely, a recent study found that consuming caffeine-free green tea supplements over a specified period improved fat oxidation rates and performance indicators, as reported in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2015.
Maca
The maca plant, often referred to as Peruvian ginseng, has been used in folk medicine for centuries, believed to enhance energy levels, strength, and athletic performance. Recent studies indicate that maca supplements may alleviate fatigue and boost strength in healthy men, as published in The Journal of Exercise and Nutrition in 2019.
Maca belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family, which includes broccoli, cabbage, and kale. It is advisable to avoid maca consumption in the following cases:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Hormone-related health issues, such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, has been traditionally used in folk medicine, believed to enhance energy and alleviate stress and anxiety. Scientific reviews suggest that ashwagandha extracts can improve brain function, including cognitive tasks, reaction time, and attention, as shown in a systematic review published in Phytotherapy Research in 2019.
However, caution is warranted, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before consuming ashwagandha in the following situations:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Diabetes.
- Blood pressure disorders, including high or low blood pressure.
- Stomach ulcers.
- Autoimmune diseases.
- Thyroid disorders.
Ginseng
Consumption of ginseng extracts has been found to potentially improve physical performance among athletes, particularly with regular intake, according to a study published in Journal Of Nutritional Disorders and Therapy in 2017.
Ginkgo Biloba
Supplements containing ginkgo biloba extracts may marginally improve endurance in physically active young adults. This effect is attributed to flavonoids and terpenes that may stimulate the release of factors increasing blood flow to muscle tissues, thereby enhancing energy production in muscles, as indicated by a study published in Nutrients in 2017.
Tips to Boost Body Energy
Here are some tips to help energize the body:
Choose Healthy and Suitable Foods
Opt for foods with a low glycemic index, as these provide a slow release of sugars into the bloodstream, reducing the likelihood of energy crashes often associated with high glycemic index foods like refined sugars and starches. Healthy alternatives include:
- Fiber-rich vegetables.
- Whole grains.
- Nuts.
- Healthy oils, such as olive oil.
Stay Hydrated
It is vital to drink enough water, as hydration is key to maintaining energy levels and preventing dehydration, which can lead to fatigue and decreased vitality.
Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking is highly recommended, as it negatively affects body energy by causing insomnia due to nicotine’s stimulating effects, increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which can hinder sleep quality and, consequently, energy levels.
Manage Stress
Efforts should be made to reduce stress, as negative emotions associated with stress can significantly drain personal energy. Strategies to mitigate stress include talking to a close friend, joining support groups, consulting a therapist, or practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga.
Engage in Regular Physical Activity
Even light exercises, such as walking, can help restore energy and vitality by stimulating the body to produce more energy. Exercise also encourages the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that promotes alertness.
Summary
Numerous herbs can aid in boosting body energy and enhancing brain functions, including guarana, yerba mate, golden root, ginseng, and ginkgo biloba. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before consuming any of these, particularly during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in the presence of certain health conditions. Additionally, following general wellness tips—such as engaging in physical activity, choosing healthy foods, and staying hydrated—can contribute to better energy levels.