Energy Boosting Herbs

Energy boosting herbs are one of the fastest-growing supplement markets in the United States. Herbs are generally categorized as a stimulant or an adaptogen. A stimulant increases blood pressure, heart rate and respiration. An adaptogen, also known as a tonic, increases the body's resistance to physical forms of stress. Energy boosting herbs can belong to either category.

Licorice

• The energy-providing benefits of licorice (glycyrrhiza glabra) have been known and used in ancient Egypt, and more recently, China. Licorice, a stimulant, is a small herbaceous shrub primarily grown for the medicinal properties of its root. Herbalists make licorice into an adrenal tonic which produces adrenaline and increases energy levels. Chronic fatigue syndrome is sometimes treated with licorice. Licorice is sold in powdered form as a pill or capsule.

Astragalus

• Astragalus (astragalus membranaceous) is also known as huang qi in traditonal Chinese medicine (TCM). The herbaceous perennial is used in TCM to raise the qi (chi), or life energies, in the body. Astragalus, an adaptogen, also reduces fatigue and enhances athletic performance. Medicinal astragalus is used in dried root form, or as a tincture or a powdered solid extract.

Ginseng Types

• Ginseng, an adaptogen, has been used for thousands of years. Different types of ginseng are energy-boosting herbs because they aid the immune system. Panax ginseng, also known as ren shen in TCM, is the most commonly used Chinese herb in America. Panax ginseng is popularly known as the herb for boosting energy. The raw root is used in a tonic form and is also available as a standardized extract. Korean gingseng is the world's most widely used adaptogen. The herb is beneficial for lessening fatigue and stimulating the adrenal cortex.

Ashwagandha

• The root of the ashwagandha (withania somnifera) plant is known in Ayurvedic medicine as the "Indian ginseng." Ashwagandha, an adaptogen, fights fatigue and is considered the Indian answer to ginseng for treating the male libido. The herb also eliminates weakness in pregnant women and regenerates the hormonal system. Ashwagandha is often used in the West as a restorative for the chronically ill.

Other Herbs

• Other herbs are also known for their energy-boosting benefits. Schisandra (schizandra chinensis) improves endurance. The leaves of the rosemary plant (rosmarinus officinalis) are a mild stimulant and increase circulation. Gotu Kola is a natural source of vitamins and minerals and reduces fatigue by stimulating the nervous system. Cayenne pepper improves blood circulation by increasing oxygen in the bloodstream which, in turn, increases energy levels.