Herbal medicine is not only concerned with healing your body's illnesses, but also in helping it to function optimally. The ability to fight fatigue, defend against stress and disease, and enjoy physical and mental endurance are measures of your body's stamina. Herbs may enhance stamina and, if yours is low, help to restore it to a positive level. Consult your health care provider before starting herbal therapy.
Herbal Actions
Herbs for stamina are called adaptogens. They are tonics that affect the adrenal glands, the immune system and the nervous system, and stimulate cell metabolism for proper nutrition and energy. Adaptogens are especially useful in long-term stressful situations, since they may help your body defend itself against stress-induced exhaustion, fatigue, chronic diseases and neurological disorders. Check with a knowledgeable practitioner for advice about dosage and preparation of these herbs.
Ginseng
Ginseng, or Panax ginseng, is a small perennial with red berries that grows throughout eastern Asia. It's one of the most important adaptogens in traditional Chinese medicine. The root contains complex saponins, known as ginsenosides, which can affect your body's stamina. In their 2009 book, "Medicinal Plants of the World," botanist Ben-Erik van Wyk and biologist Michael Wink note that ginseng may improve mood, immune response, and physical and mental performance. Do not use ginseng if you are pregnant. Discuss taking ginseng with your physician before treating any medical condition.
Eleuthero
Eleuthero, or Eleutherococcus senticosus, is a Siberian woody shrub and adaptogenic tonic. Traditional healers use the roots and rhizomes to fight fatigue and stress and to restore stamina to people recovering from illness. Van Wyk and Wink note that the plant is rich in eleutherosides, including coumarins, lignans, saponins and polysaccharides, and that it may improve endurance, resistance to stress and immune function. Talk to your doctor about taking eleuthero to ensure your safety. Do not use eleuthero for more than three months and not at all if you have hypertension.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is also called Indian ginseng because it acts as an adaptogenic tonic similar to Panax ginseng. Indian Ayurvedic practitioners use the roots to treat fatigue, stress, inflammation and wounds. The roots contain a group of steroids known as withanolides. In his 2008 book, "Medicinal Plants: Chemistry and Properties," botanist Dr. Mammen Daniel calls the herb a "rejuvenating drug" and notes that it may be effective against hypertension, cancer and arthritic disorders. Discuss using ashwagandha with your doctor, as it may cause stomach upset. Do not use it if you are pregnant.
References
- "Medicinal Plants of the World"; Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink; 2009
- "Medicinal Plants: Chemistry and Properties"; Dr. Mammen Daniel; 2008
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