What are Herbal Energy Boosters?

There are a number of herbal energy boosters on the market, from drinks to powders to supplements, containing any number of extracts along with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Although they are not all created equal, the better ones can not only add a little bounce to your step but also provide numerous other therapeutic benefits.

Although you can purchase an herbal supplement for energy containing one ingredient, experts agree that you can reap the most benefits from a more comprehensive supplement with multiple herbal extracts as well as other energy-enhancing nutrients.

Siberian ginseng has been researched extensively in Russia and is popular with Russian athletes as a natural herbal energy booster. It can help with concentration, stamina and immune function as well as speed up recovery time after exercise.

Another powerful herb is called gotu kola, and it can help enhance brain function as well as strengthen blood vessels and muscle tissue. It acts as a tonic and rejuvenator.

Maitake, a Chinese mushroom, has been shown to stimulate the immune system as well as have a significant effect on chronic fatigue.

It might surprise you to learn that several digestive herbs can help boost energy as they assist in the digestion of the food you eat, thereby maximizing the usage of nutrients for the production of energy. As such an herbal supplement for energy might include ginger and turmeric extract, two potent herbs that can facilitate the digestive process.

As we mention above, most of the more effective herbal energy boosters will contain other nutrients that can have an equally significant effect on overall energy levels. The B family of vitamins, in particular B12, biotin and folic acid, can all fight fatigue by assisting in the use of blood sugar and the formation of red blood cells, which transport energy throughout the body.

Other natural compounds that have been shown to have a positive effect on the body's overall energy levels include MSM, NADH, DMAE and bee pollen, all commonly found in an herbal supplement for energy.

One of the most popular herbal energy boosters, ephedra, was taken off the market several years ago due to the fact that there were some serious potential side effects. However, it's important to realize that any supplement that is taken in doses exceeding the recommended amounts can be harmful, so you should always start with the minimum dosage to gauge what your body can handle; and of course, always do so under the guidance of a medical professional.

If you are looking for an herbal supplement for energy, look for one with standardized herbal extracts sold by a reputable manufacturer. All of the ingredients should be certified, and the product should be formulated by a well-credentialed scientific team that can ensure the proper blending of ingredients to maximize the therapeutic benefits.