Caffeine is a naturally occurring ingredient that can be found in many drinks and foods. It is also commonly extracted for use in medications and supplements and used in combination with other elements or on its own. Caffeine is often used as a stimulant, as it provides a form of energy. Natural alternatives to caffeine can provide a similar energy boost when consumed without as many of the long-term effects of regular caffeine intake.
Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is the pollen that has been collected from flowers and plants by bees and then mixed with the digestive juices of the bees themselves. It is commonly sold as a nutritional supplement in the United States, and its proponents claim that it has a significant number of health benefits. These benefits include higher energy levels, a stronger immune system and relief from allergies. However, according to the Langone Medical Center of New York University, these claims are not supported by current scientific research.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng is a plant whose root portion is used medicinally. Siberian ginseng is described as an adaptogen, as it is purported to be able to help improve overall stress management as well as aiding in general strengthening of the body. Siberian ginseng has also been said to improve energy, longevity and overall vitality. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies conducted on the efficacy of Siberian ginseng are inconclusive. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends a daily dosage of 500 to 3,000 mg daily in dried root form. If extended use or high dosage is required, then consultation with a medical professional is strongly recommended.
Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is most commonly consumed in the form of a beverage. It has its roots in South America, where it still remains a very popular drink. The leaves of the Yerba mate tree are used to make the tea. In addition to increasing energy, yerba mate is purported to also help burn fat, decrease appetite, clean the blood, stimulate digestion and fight free radicals. It is also supposedly able to enhance memory function. Despite its increasingly common use outside of South America, however, the benefits of yerba mate other than as an energy booster remains unsupported by scientific evidence.
American Ginseng
According to Medline Plus, in addition to acting as a stimulant, American ginseng has been used to treat anemia -- or low iron in the blood -- diabetes, nerve pain, memory loss, cancer, painful joints, dizziness and headaches. It is also sometimes used as an anti-aging drug. Despite its popular use, however, American ginseng is not a proven remedy or cure for any of the conditions it is often used to treat.
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