Herbs That Increase Energy Levels

Medicinal herbs, including herbs to increase energy, normally fit into one of two categories; stimulants or adaptogens, also known as tonics. Stimulants have a fairly immediate effect on energy and performance levels. Tonics work to stimulate functions in the body that eliminate toxins and promote well-being and vigorous health.

Ashwagandha

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as winter ginger, winter cherry or Indian ginseng, is a plant in the Solanaceae or nightshade family. Ashwagandha supplements (adaptogens) are recommended to enhance stamina and sexual performance. Many herbalists prescribe ashwagandha to reduce stress and improve immunity to disease.

Bacopa

• Bacopa (Herpestis monniera) also known as water hyssop, is an important adaptogen in ayurvedic medicine. It has been used, particularly in India, for several thousand years. Crushed leaves have a distinctive lemon scent. A tea made from the fragrant leaves in said induce sleep and restore energy.

Fo-Ti

• Fo-ti was first recorded in Chinese medicine in 713 A.D. during the Tang dynasty and has long been touted as the best of Chinese herbs. Use fo-ti supplements to stimulate stamina and restore vitality and vigor.

Ginkgo, Ginseng and Gotu kola

• Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) has been cultivated in China for centuries; some trees found there are over 1,500 years old. Many natural practitioners suggest treating dementia, senility or preventing the onset of Alzheimer's disease with supplementation of ginkgo biloba. However, recent studies suggest that ginkgo can increase daily energy but does not have a long-term effect on mental capacity or decline.

  Ginseng (Eleutherococcus Chinensis), a staple of traditional Chinese herbal medicine, reportedly causes a dynamic increase in energy levels. Supplements, tinctures, tonics and teas made from ginseng are used by many cultures worldwide.

  Guto kola (Centella asiatica) has been used for thousands of years in Asia and Indonesia as a supplement to increase energy and stamina. Gotu kola is a jungle swamp plant that is native to Madagascar, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and many regions of South Africa. Said to calm the mind and focus clear thinking, Guto kola speeds up the metabolism. Called the "Fountain Of Life," a herbalist in China is said to have lived for over 200 years because he regularly consumed Guto kola. Guto kola is an important herb for maintaining health, vitality and well-being.

Mucuna pruriens

• Mucuna pruriens, known by many names including velvet bean, mucuna, nescafé, pó de mico, fava-coceira, cabeca-de-frade, cowage, cowhage, cow-itch, bengal bean, mauritius bean, itchy bean, krame, picapica, chiporro, and buffalo bean has been used for centuries in Central and South America as an invigorating tonic. Beans are roasted and finely ground to make a coffee substitute that goes by the common name of "nescafe." Mucuna pruriens seed extract is used to dramatically increase energy levels in healthy adults.

Rhodiola and More

• Herbal practitioners advise that Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) can improve endurance in exercise or athletic performance.

  Take herbs for energy only under the advice of a medical practitioner. Many of the herbs that promote well being and increased stamina can be harmful if taken in the incorrect combinations or dosages. Herbal stimulants include ephedra, coca, cinnamon and licorice. Although herbs can improve your performance in an isolated physical activity, stimulant herbs are unlikely to continue to help if they’re used regularly or abused.