As herbs continue to grow in popularity, many people are turning to these alternatives for natural sources of energy. There are several herbs that have naturally occurring stimulants and caffeine that may be used in place of conventional sources such as coffee and soda. Always check with your doctor before consuming any stimulant containing caffeine, natural or otherwise. Consuming large quantities of this chemical may be linked to insomnia, anxiety, irregular heartbeat, gastrointestinal disorders and headaches.
Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is an herbal beverage popular in some South American countries. The word "yerba" literally means herb. The tea is derived from a plant by the same name in the holly family. Its leaves and branches are dried and ground, and the tea is consumed either cold or hot. Yerba mate contains a naturally occurring form of caffeine. It is used by herbalists to alleviate fatigue, headaches and aid in weight loss. Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., of the Mayo Clinic warns that drinking yerba mate over prolonged periods of time has been linked to certain cancers, but periodic use appears to be safe. Consult your health care practitioner before trying yerba mate.
Kola Nut
Kola nut is another natural source of caffeine that was used in commercial colas; however, soft drink manufacturers in the United States and Europe now use a synthetic form of caffeine. It is part of the cocoa family and grows throughout tropical regions of Africa and the Americas. Herbalists use kola nut to combat hunger and fatigue. Kola nut can be found in many natural health food stores in liquid extract or capsule form. It is also added to some energy drinks and weight loss supplements. Check with your medical doctor before using products containing kola nut.
Guarana
Like kola nut, guarana is part of the cocoa family. It contains high concentrations of caffeine and is often added to energy drinks and weight loss supplements. It is used as a natural stimulant and appetite suppressant. Herbalists also use guarana to treat headaches, enhance athletic performance and as an aphrodisiac. It can be purchased as an over-the-counter liquid extract or capsule. Of note, these claims have not yet been evaluated by the Federal Drug Administration. Guarana should only be used under the supervision of a health care professional.
Green Tea
Green tea comes from the same plant used to make commercial black tea. The difference is in the processing. Green tea is the fresh, un-fermented form of the plant. It contains three natural stimulants; caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. Herbalists use green tea to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, liver disease and inflammatory bowel disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies suggest that green tea may even boost metabolism and help burn fat. Check with your doctor before using green tea for medicinal purposes.
Member Comments