Herbs for Energy

Fatigue can affect us both physically and mentally and is a common complaint. There are, however, many herbal medicines which have been used for centuries to restore energy, vitality and balance. These herbs are referred to as "adaptogens". They work by helping to increase the body's tolerance to mental, physical, and environmental stress, and may offer additional benefit. 

Herbs are generally available as a tea, liquid extract, or in tablet/capsule form.

Herbs to consider 

Siberian ginseng

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus Senticosus) is a gentle herb which can help with conditions of both mild and chronic fatigue, particularly that which is due to stress It can help the body adapt to stress and is also supportive of immune health.  

Panax ginseng

Commonly referred to as Korean ginseng, this herb has been traditionally used in Asian countries to enhance vital energy. Panax ginseng has grown in popularity to one of the most well-known medicinal plants worldwide. It is indicated for people who feel weak, tired, with a loss of physical stamina.

Panax ginseng has also been shown to enhance cognitive performance, improve memory and concentration. Research has shown it has a positive effect on fatigue due to its antioxidant and adaptogenic activity. It is also well suited to people who have chronic immune deficiencies and conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome.

Withania 

Also called ashwagandha and winter cherry, this lovely tonic herb, is best suited to people who are suffering exhaustion due to stress. Withania helps to support the nervous system, acting as a mild sedative to reduce the effects of anxiety. It can reduce inflammation, blood pressure and promote a restful night’s sleep. It can support fatigue associated with anaemia and can be taken in conjunction with iron supplements to help increase levels.

Oats (Avena sativa)

Perhaps next time you are thinking what to have for breakfast for an energy boost, consider having a bowl of porridge. Oats are rich in nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, and amino acids, all of which the body needs for energy. Oats can help you cope in times of stress and may assist with depression and insomnia. They can be a simple addition into the diet with profound effects on the nervous system and also available as a herbal supplement for additional benefit. 

Schisandra chinensis

The seeds and fruit from the Chinese magnolia vine, is typically taken to increase physical and mental endurance and to increase memory and concentration. Schisandra may be helpful for disorders that affect the nervous system such as shingles, depression, and dementia, and is supportive of liver function offering antioxidant and protective properties. 

Rhodiola

Rhodiola rosea is a remarkable herb that that has a wide and varied history of uses. It helps to strengthen the nervous system, fight depression, improve energy levels, enhance immunity, aid weight reduction, improve memory, elevates the capacity to exercise, and even increases sexual function. There is strong scientific evidence available for rhodiola, which improved attention, cognitive function and mental performance in fatigue and in chronic fatigue syndrome.

Kola nut

Native to north-west Africa, Cola nitida or kola nut, is an evergreen tree that produces nuts in large multiseeded follicles. They are collected when ripe and white in colour, turning red upon drying. The kola nut was formerly used in cola-based beverages as it naturally contains caffeine and theobromine. Kola nut is beneficial forpeople who are suffering from depressive states with general muscular weakness. It acts by working not as an adaptogen but as a central nervous system stimulant, helping to lift mood and energy levels quickly. Kola nut may be useful for students and athletes prior to an event or as a quick energy boost. It should not be used long-term and in high amounts.

Astragalus

Astragalus is one of the most important “Qi tonifying” adaptogenic herbs from the Chinese materia medica. Over the centuries, it has been prescribed for general weakness, chronic illness, and to increase overall vitality.

Astragalus is considered a whole body tonic supportive of many areas of weakness. 

Summary

Adaptogenic herbs such as Siberian ginseng, Panax ginseng, Withania, Schisandra, Rhodiola, and Astragalus can be used to gently lift energy levels, particularly in those who feel the effects of stress. Kola nut may be beneficial for a quick energy boost, and oat can be taken as an herbal medicine supporting the nervous system. 

Note: Herbal medicines may have interactions with medications. For best advice consult a naturopath or herbalist to prescribe the most appropriate herbal medicine for your needs, and to minimise any interactions or side effects. 

The information provided is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing any health concerns, please consult your doctor for advice.

References

1. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/fatigue
2. Thomsen M (2005). Phytotherapy desk reference 3rd ed. Michael Thomsen, Australia
3. Panossian A, Wikman G. Evidence-based efficacy of adaptogens in fatigue, and molecular mechanisms related to their stress-protective activity. Curr Clin Pharacol. 2009 Sep;4(3):198-219 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19500070
4. Kim HG, et al. Antifatigue effects of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PLoS One. 2013 Apr 17;8(4):e61271 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3629193/
5. Starin D. Kola nut: so much more than just a nut. J R Soc Med. 2013 Dec;106(12):510-2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3842857/
6. Astragalas membranaceus. Monograph. Altern Med Rev. 2003 Feb;8(1):72-7
7. http://www.altmedrev.com/publications/8/1/72.pdf