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Ginseng has been used to treat erectile dysfunction and fatigue in cancer patients.
Enter winter. The earth's days are shorter; yours are not. You have as much to do as in summer and spring but all the cold and dark is sapping vital energy. Put down that Red Bull can and the 5,000 hour energy shot. Stop it with the triple dose lattes. Did you notice that you are still out of it a half hour later? Not to mention the shakes... Seriously, it's time go herbal on your energy crisis.

Herbs to Increase Energy

"Herbs are plants and each plant has a different chemical make-up," says Melissa Wood, a naturopathic doctor and health coach. "Some plants, like lavender, can be very calming and relaxing. Other plants, like peppermint, can be energizing." Similar to caffeine, certain herbs and spices have properties that increase blood flow and detox the body, making it operate more efficiently.

Energy increasing herbs are called adaptogens because they help the body adapt to stress in a healthy way. "Adaptogenic herbs increase strength, improve stamina, and aid in stress relief," says Phyllis D. Light, Director of Herbal Studies at Clayton College of Natural Health. "This has the effect of releasing energy working with the endocrine system to improve thyroid functioning, balance blood sugar, improve reproductive health, and influence the appropriate release of stress hormones."

Our Favorite Energizing Herbs

Ashwagandha

A relative of garden tomatoes, ashwagandha originated in south Asia, and is found in Africa and North America. In Hindi, ashwagandha means "horse's smell" - an accurate description. But don't let that dissuade you from trying it. Research from over 200 medical studies has revealed numerous benefits.

Benefits:
  • Reduces anxiety and depression without sleepiness
  • Improves memory and reaction time
  • Lowers cholesterol
  • Boosts the immune system
  • Anti-inflammatory
Usage: Primarly recommended in tincture or tea form, ashwagandha is now widely available in capsules. Follow the package instructions.

Ginseng

An Asian cooking staple, all varieties of ginseng are energizing to a degree. American and Canadian ginsengs provide significantly less energy than Asian, Korean, or Chinese varieties which deliver a stronger punch. Ginseng has been used to treat erectile dysfunction and fatigue in cancer patients.

Benefits: Increased energy

Usage: Available dried, fresh, sliced, powdered, and in capsules, ginseng can be eaten, drank, or taken as a supplement. Side effects from consuming increased amount of ginseng are common, such as: headache, anxiety, increased blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, and bloating. Consult your doctor and carefully monitor how you feel when using it.

Gotu Kola

Slender and smooth, gotu kola grows in low, wet areas in Southeast Asia. Gotu kola will clean out your liver, helping your body run more efficiently and energetically.Used to treat everything from syphilis and hepatitis to stomach ulcers and epilepsy, gotu kola has many mild benefits.

Benefits:
  • Antibacterial
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Anti-viral
  • Stimulates circulation
  • Diuretic
Usage: Another versatile herb, gotu kola is found in capsules, tinctures, or can be grown in your backyard. This herb is not recommended for anyone under 18 years old. If taken it casually (i.e. not in consultation with your doctor), don't use gotu kola for more than 6 weeks at a time; it can have long-term effects on the liver.

Triphala

A blend of three fruit-bearing plants, triphala "can be used by everyone and is a gentle but powerful detoxifier," says Alison Dibrino, an Ayurvedic practitioner at Juju Spa & Organics. One of the most widely used herbs in India's ancient health science of Ayurveda, this herb is highly valued for its health benefits.

Benefits:
  • Detoxification
  • Increased red blood cell counts
  • Removes unnecessary fat
Usage: Triphala is often taken in powder-containing capsules.
Turmeric, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cardamom

Ok, they're not herbs, they're spices, but this powerful foursome can add a consistent flame to your inner fire. Simply use any or all of them in your favorite soups, salads, stews, roasts, and desserts. For a quick boost, create a tea blend with a teaspoon or two of each spice.

The Many Ways to Use Herbs for Energy

Ready for more? We've got all the resources you need to learn more about how herbs can energy your on daily basis, or treat someone you care for with an herbal gift. Here are our top sources for herbal goodies.

Books about Herbs

Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chevallier and Gillian Emerson-Roberts

The Complete Book of Herbs by Lesley Bremness

Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health: 175 Teas, Tonics, Oils, Salves, Tinctures, and Other Natural Remedies for the Entire Family by Rosemary Gladstar