Top 7 Herbs for Energy

A combination of hectic schedules and modern-day stressors often cause people to feel drained. This fatigue leads to a constant search for a solution that will give energy and alertness on a regular basis. A person's first line of defense is to make sure they are getting enough sleep and eating a nutrient-dense diet, and various herbs for energy and cognitive health have been shown to support these efforts.

Top 7 Herbs for Energy


 

1. Ginseng


As one of the most popular herbal supplements, Ginseng is well-known for its energy-boosting properties. This herb has been shown to stimulate brain function, increasing focus levels and mental performance.
Studies have shown that both sedentary and active people alike have experienced an improvement in physical performance from consuming ginseng. Just 200-1,000 mg a day have allowed adults to boost their mental alertness, their concentration, and their overall mood.


2. Sage


Research has shown that sage holds cognitive-enhancing properties that have impressive effects in adults. This herb has high levels of various plant compounds which gives it many medicinal properties, such as mood improvement, increased alertness, and memory, as well as a stronger word recall in healthy adults of all ages. A recent study of 36 healthy adults found that their mental fatigue reduced, and their alertness increased over a 4-hour period after just one 50-microliter dose of sage essential oil.
Sage acts as a powerful AChE (acetylcholinesterase) inhibitor, which increases the available acetylcholine in the brain to improve cognitive function. This important enzyme plays a crucial role in overall brain function, directly affecting memory, attention, and motivation. When taken as a supplement, sage reduces fatigue and elevates mood.

3. Peppermint


Many people have reported that the simple act of inhaling the strong aroma of peppermint essential oil has helped boost their energy, mood, alertness, and athletic performance.
Several studies have confirmed these findings, concluding that the pleasant scent of peppermint reduces fatigue and boosts memory levels. Peppermint essential oil is extremely safe to use as it is one of the few supplements that can deliver its full effects without ingesting it.

4. Rosemary


Like peppermint, inhaling the pleasant aroma of rosemary essential oil can increase energy levels and improve cognitive function. Inhaling the scent of this plant allows compounds in the essential oil to enter your bloodstream where they can quickly affect your brain.
A study of 20 adults found that simply being exposed to the scent of rosemary essential oil, that has been diffused into the air, led to significantly improved performances on cognitive tasks such as speed and accuracy. A smaller study with 8 adults showed that consuming 250 mL of water that contained rosemary extract led to higher performance levels on computerized cognitive tasks.

5. Maca


Maca is a popular Peruvian plant that has been prized as one of the most energy-enhancing herbs available. Studies have shown that supplementing with maca regularly helps to boost energy levels, enhance athletic performance, and reduce anxiety.

6. Ashwagandha


Ashwagandha is a powerful herb that has been used in medicinal remedies since ancient times. This herb has excellent effects on brain function and boosting cellular energy production. Several studies have demonstrated that supplementing with ashwagandha root extract every day can significantly improve information processing, memory, and attention span.
This herb is well-tolerated, often resulting in enhanced sleep quality, mental capacity, and an overall improvement in quality of life.

7. Gotu Kola


Gotu kola, or Centella Asiatica, has long been used in traditional medicine to improve brain function. It has been extensively studied to prove its benefits on alertness and mood. In a 2-month study, participants found that between 250-750-mg doses of gotu kola extract a day worked to increase memory function, alertness, and self-rated mood levels.
A 3 month study which included older adults, found that doses up to 750mg a day significantly improved both mental and physical strength, as well as an increase in overall energy levels.
The best way that you can optimize the effects of these energy-inducing herbs is to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes plenty of sleep, reducing regular stress, and eating a nutritious diet. Incorporating one or more of these herbs into your daily routine will help to boost your brain function and overall energy level. Let us help you find natural ways to get and maintain a healthy body!