Herbal remedies are a great way to give you a natural boost in moments of physical or mental fatigue, stress and exhaustion. These 5 herbs can help provide your body with energy in a few different ways by improving memory, providing mental clarity and enhancing your stamina and physical performance.
1) Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Also known as siberian ginseng can increase insurance and stamina. This adaptogen enhances mitochondrial activity, speeds recovery and prevents immune depletion from excessive training. One study found that eleuthero boosted energy and physical performance in the study participants over an 8 week period. It also showed to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and pressure. Can be found in capsule format.
2) Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri)
Also known as water hyssop or brahmi is a nootropic and is used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and enhance memory. Due to its high levels of antioxidants it can minimise oxidative stress, and has also shown its amazing benefits in a study on how it activates neuroreceptors in various parts of the brain to promote mental clarity, awareness, and create a clear and calm mind. A tincture is a great way to get your daily dose of Bacopa.
3) Lions Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Also known as the smart mushroom or the bearded tooth fungus, lion’s mane is a major antioxidant and nootropic. This mushroom can help to supercharge your day, improve focus, promote mental clarity, enhance memory and spark creativity. In a clinical study conducted in Japan, Lion’s Mane showed its ability to improve cognitive function in a group of elderly that had been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. Commonly found in supplements.
4) Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
Shatavari is an adaptogen that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It has been used for longevity, general well being and a female tonic. An 8 week resistance training study showed a greater rate of increase in training loads for the Asparagus racemosus group than the placebo group. Its natural antioxidant properties help to reduce fatigue and increase energy levels. Often found in tinctures.
5) Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Gingko is the oldest surviving species of tree and known mostly for memory enhancement. This ancient tree can also help reduce stress and maintain stamina and energy levels.
A six week study showed improvements with a group of men’s endurance performance. Flavonoids and terpenes are antioxidants contained in Ginkgo biloba that stimulate the release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF), which showed to improve aerobic endurance by enhancing muscular energy production by an increase of blood flow through improved microcirculation. A great way to get gingko biloba into your diet is through a tincture.
**This list of common herbal supplements for energy is for informational purposes only. Talk to your Doctor, Naturopath or Health Care Provider to discuss specific medical conditions or symptoms or if you are taking prescriptions.