Everyone experiences a certain level of tiredness and fatigue at some point. Fatigue can result from lack of sleep, improper nutrition or work stress. Although our first inclination may be to have more coffee, take an energy supplement with high amounts of caffeine or eat a sugary treat to get a burst of energy, there are herbs which can help combat tiredness naturally.
Ginseng
Ginseng, specifically Panax ginseng, is a root that grows throughout Asia, and is now being cultivated in forest regions of the United States. It has been used by herbalists as a whole-body tonic. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health Herb Guide, ginseng is a central nervous system stimulant. It stimulates the body and improves circulation. It helps the body adapt to stress, and has been used to treat high blood pressure, headaches, colds and the flu. Even though it is a gentle stimulant, it should still be taken in moderation: 200mg per day is most often recommended.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola is a natural stimulant which does not contain caffeine. This is not to be confused with kola nut, which does contain high quantities of caffeine. Gotu kola has been used for centuries by herbalists throughout Asia and India. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that it has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including hepatitis, stomach ulcers, epilepsy, diarrhea, fever, asthma and mental fatigue. It is an excellent nerve tonic and helps to combat stress, one underlying cause of fatigue. It strengthens the nervous system and helps improve brain function. It can be taken in capsule form, up to 4,000mg per day.
Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is a plant in the holly family native to South America. It is a popular social drink throughout Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B, vitamin C, iron, calcium, protein and natural antioxidants. It contains a caffeine-like xanthine, or stimulant. Dr. Daniel Mowrey, herbalist and author of "The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine," called the stimulant in yerba "mateine." Mowrey claims that although mateine does provide energy and stamina much like caffeine, it is non-habit forming and has less harmful side effects. In addition to combating fatigue, yerba mate is rich in antioxidants and can help strengthen the immune system, increase alertness and mental clarity, and provide a feeling of overall well-being. It is typically consumed as an herbal beverage, either with tea bags or an infusion of dried leaves.
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