Have you been feeling a little low on energy lately?  Before you reach for the coffee or some other pick-me-up, consider using herbs for a much-needed boost.  There are several different herbs that are great for increasing your energy and making you feel better in general.  Here are four of our favourites.

Ginseng – One of the Best Herbal Pick-Me-Ups

Ginseng is one of the best herbal pick-me-ups available.  There are several different types of ginseng; however, Siberian ginseng is probably your best bet.  This herb has been used for at least 2000 years to improve health, increase energy levels and also as a longevity tonic.  It also helps to increase a person’s resistance to stress, meaning that it works on both the physiological and psychological levels.

Schizandra – A Popular Chinese Herb for Fatigue

Schizandra is a Chinese herb that stimulates the central nervous system without any of the jittery effects that a person may get from caffeine.  It also provides a mental boost.  Schizandra also increases physical and mental exercise capacities as well as improving adaptability to environmental stresses.  This herb is commonly used for fatigue.

Mate – An Energising South American Herbal Tea

Pronounced “mah-tay”, mate is an herbal tea that is native to South America, and widely consumed by South American residents.  It is far more nutritious than either tea or coffee and, while it contains caffeine, mate tea’s effects are energizing rather than causing any jitters.  It is stimulating and wakes the mind.

Ashwagandha – An Ayurvedic Tonic Herb

Ashwagandha is also known as winter cherry and it is a rejuvenative tonic herb.  It is the most frequently prescribed tonic in Ayurvedic medicine.  It is able to increase energy and endurance, it promotes longevity, supports sexual vitality, calms the mind, enhances mental functioning, rejuvenates the body’s tissues, strengthens the immune system, improves sleep, and helps the body to overcome any imbalances that may have been caused by stress, poor diet, lack of sleep or environmental factors.