6 Best Herbs That Give You Energy

Jam-packed routines, late-night screen time, back-to-back meetings, and day-long demanding tasks— these things result in that mid-afternoon slump we all feel.

We have work to do but can’t seem to get rid of the lethargic state we get into post-lunch.

Drinking a cup of coffee or a can of energy drink may seem like the obvious solution momentarily.

But quite often, consuming these beverages can lead to an elevated heart-rate, jitters and even an energy-crash a few hours later.    

If you are looking for a way that provides you with balanced and sustainable energy throughout the day, you can turn to more natural solutions.

There are various herbs for energy and stamina that have been used in traditional medicine pertaining to Ayurveda as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

For thousands of years, before modern medicine came into existence, most humans relied on these powerful herbs for energy and stamina.

These herbs are known as nervines and adaptogens. They support cellular energy production, help in building stamina and enable a person to deal with stress more efficiently.

If it feels like you are low on energy or getting tired too easily, you can try out these wonderful herbs.

Here are six herbs that give your energy—

1. Ginseng.

When it comes to herbal energy, Ginseng stands as the undisputed king.

There are two types of Ginseng that are mainly used for vitality- Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng) and Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero).

How does it work?

Asian Ginseng contains a compound called ginsenosides.

Ginsenosides are known to stimulate the central nervous system, improve blood flow, and regulate oxygen levels in the cells.

It also promotes alertness, helps in fighting physical fatigue and boosts the immune system.      

Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero), works almost the same way— by improving muscular endurance and regulating oxygen levels during a strenuous task.

How to use Ginseng?

a. Ginseng Tea- Brew some sliced, dried ginseng root in boiling water for about 15-20 minutes. Drink a cup early in the morning and have energy all day long.  

It has been found that Ginseng tea is one of the best herbal teas for energy and alertness.

b. Standardized Extract Capsules- You can take 100 to 200 mg of a standardized Asian Ginseng extract in the form of capsules everyday, right after breakfast.

C. Ginseng Tincture- You can add about 1 to 2 ml of liquid ginseng extract to a glass of water or smoothie before you start a physical activity.

Please note that Ginseng is an uber-stimulating herb. So, you need to consume it before noon. Taking it after 12 pm might interfere with your sleep at night.          

2. Golden Root.

Golden Root happens to be one of the most researched adaptogenic herbs for mental energy and focus.

Native to the high-altitude cold mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, it is also known as Rhodiola Rosea.

How does it work?

Rhodiola contains phytochemicals called salidroside and rosavins. These compounds help in the prevention of physical and mental fatigue.

They do so by regulating important neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

It also supports the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), thus aiding your cells in generating more energy.

Various studies have found that Rhodiola is specifically effective in instances where you need to deal with mental fatigue at times of exams or important projects at work.

How to use Golden Root?

a. Capsules or Tablets- Look for capsules or tablets that contain 3% rosavins and 1% salidroside.

You can take a dose of about 200 to 400 mg on an empty stomach. Make sure that you consume it about 30 minutes before breakfast.

b. Liquid Extract- Mix the liquid form of Golden Root in about 100 ml of water early in the morning, and drink it before eating any food.  

About 2-5 drops should be enough for it to work. Make sure that you don’t take it more than three times a day, unless prescribed otherwise.

Golden Root is one of the best herbs to fight morning fatigue.        

3. Ashwagandha.

Ashwagandha holds a special spot in Ayurveda and thus, is used to treat various ailments. It has been nicknamed as “Indian Ginseng”.

When translated, the Sanskrit word ‘ashwagandha’ means ‘smell of the horse’. The herb got this name due to its distinct aroma that many people would find a bit strong.

This name is also apt as consuming Ashwagandha on a daily basis might give you strength and stamina that is similar to a horse.

Ashwagandha is also known as Withania somnifera.

How does it work?

Ashwagandha is a source that provides “calm energy”. It does not create an instant spike in energy.

Hence, Ashwagandha is one of the most commonly used natural remedies for chronic fatigue.

It lowers the cortisol levels gradually. Consequently, it regulates the nervous system and reduces anxiety.

When you have a well-regulated nervous system, your body spends much less energy on handling chronic stress.

And as a result, you are able to maintain good energy levels throughout the day.

What’s more?

Studies have shown that Ashwagandha can improve oxygen intake in endurance athletes, such as marathon runners, swimmers, cyclists and triathlons-participants.

This helps them in improving cardiovascular efficiency and overall stamina during extended periods of physical exertion.

How to use Ashwagandha?

a. Ashwagandha Powder- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of organic Ashwagandha powder into warm milk, along with a pinch of cardamom and cinnamon. Add a spoon of honey.

Your yummy energy-providing drink is ready. It has been nicknamed as the Moon Milk as you are supposed to have it at night.    

While you sleep, the Ashwagandha works its magic and gives you energy the next day. And that is why, it is also known as the Bedtime Elixir.

If you are a big smoothie-person, you can add a teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder to your protein-smoothie in the morning.

b. Ashwagandha Capsules and Tablets- You can take about 300-400 mg of Ashwagandha in the form of capsules or tablets everyday.

You will see the effectiveness of this energy boosting herb soon enough.

4. Maca Root.

Maca Root is a wonder-herb grown in the Peruvian Andes. It is a type of cruciferous root-vegetable.

Numerous indigenous communities in Peru have consumed this herb for thousands of years. In fact, it is an important part of their diet.

It is also known as Lepidium meyenii.

How does it work?

Maca root is rich in fibre, complex carbs, amino acids, calcium, potassium and iron. These are all important nutrients for a healthy mind and body.

This uber-useful herb also contains unique bio-active compounds called macaenes and macamides.

These compounds are known to promote metabolic efficiency, regulate hormones and increase physical stamina.

Even though Maca root is one of the most powerful herbs for health, unlike caffeine, it provides a smooth lift to your energy levels.          

Which means that it gives you energy without elevating your blood pressure or heart rate.

How to use Maca Root?

Raw Maca root is usually not suitable for people who are not used to it. Hence, it is advisable to consume Gelatinized Maca powder.

You can make an energy-giving smoothie by mixing 1 tablespoon of Maca root powder with a banana, 2 spoons of cocoa powder, a spoon of almond butter, and a glass of plant-based milk.

You can also add a spoonful of Maca root into your morning bowl of oatmeal. Add some chia seeds and honey to make it even more nutritious.        

5. Tulsi.

In India, Tulsi has been given the position of the “Queen of Herbs”. It is often called the Holy Basil. It is also known as Ocimum sanctum.

This pleasantly-scented herb has been a core part of Ayurveda for centuries. Even today, it is used in treating a wide range of illnesses and health conditions.

Amongst other things, Basil is used in treating stress and improving mental clarity.

In case you have been looking for herbs for fatigue and depression, the Holy Basil is the perfect herb for you.

Along with reducing fatigue, it helps in alleviating depression as well.

How does it work?

Fatigue is usually caused by chronic psychological stress and systemic inflammation.

Tulsi contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as rosmarinic acid and eugenol that protect tissues from oxidative stress, lower cortisol and sharpen cognitive functions.

How to use Tulsi?

a. Tulsi Tea- While using Holy Basil for fatigue, it is best to consume it in the form of a warm cup of tea.  

You can brew 2 teaspoons of dried Basil leaves in boiling water for about 8-10 minutes. You can have 2-3 cups of this tea on a daily basis.

b. Liquid Tincture- You can add 1 ml of Holy Basil extract to a cup of lukewarm water when you are feeling more stressed than usual.

c. Fresh Tulsi Leaves- If you have a Tulsi plant at home, you can gently pluck out 4 to 5 fresh leaves and consume them every morning.

Make sure that you chew the leaves properly and also to have them before eating anything else.

6. Gotu Kola.

In many traditional medicines across Asia, Gotu Kola is thought to be the “herb of longevity”. In India, Gotu Kola is known as Brahmi.      

It is also believed that one reason why elephants live a long life is because they like to munch on Gotu Kola leaves whenever they find them.

Also known as Centella asiatica, it is one of the best natural herbs for energy.

How does it work?

Gotu Kola is not a metabolic stimulant. It is the kind of herb that supports microcirculation.

And what is microcirculation?

Microcirculation is the flow of blood through the body's smallest blood vessels, including arterioles, capillaries, and venules.

When microcirculation is optimised, it energises the brain.

Gotu Kola contains active compounds called triterpenoids that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), improve capillary strength, and increase blood flow to brain tissue.

So, this herb is often used to improve concentration, memory, and cognitive stamina. Hence, Gotu Kola (Brahmi) is deemed to be one of the best herbs for energy and stamina.  

How to use Gotu Kola?

a. Gotu Kola Tea- You can steep 1 teaspoon of dried Gotu Kola leaves in about 200 ml of hot water for 10 minutes.    

It is best to drink this herbal tea at mid-morning when mental fatigue starts creeping in.

b. Powdered Mix- You can stir 1/2 teaspoon of Gotu Kola powder into a cup of warm water and honey.

c. Gotu Kola Capsules- You can take 300 to 500 mg of Gotu Kola extract in the form of capsules once or twice daily.

Energy Giving Herbs FAQs

What herb gives the most energy?

The herb that provides the strongest and most direct physical energy boost is Guarana. It is followed closely by Panax Ginseng and Yerba Mate.

Unlike heavy caffeine sources (coffee, energy drinks etc), these energizing herbs work through unique plant compounds to affect the stamina, alertness, and central nervous system of a person.          

What herbs help chronic fatigue?

Many people around the world suffer from chronic fatigue. If you do too, you don’t have to keep suffering.

Herbs like ashwagandha, ginseng, and rhodiola rosea help manage chronic fatigue.

However, it is advisable to seek professional medical consultation before you start consuming these herbs for energy as it may not be suitable for everyone.                  

What herbs are stimulants?

Herbs that speed up the central nervous system, increasing alertness, energy, and physical performance are considered to be stimulants.

Ginseng, guarana, and yerba mate are some of the strongest herbal stimulants.

What can boost my energy immediately?

There are a few things you can do to boost your energy naturally and immediately.

For example- go out to soak-in some sunlight, drink a glass of water, take a short walk, or do some jumping jacks.

These simple methods wake up your body and brain fairly quickly and don't even cause a sugar crash later on.

These natural ways to boost energy are perfect for people who don’t want to consume medication or herbs on a daily basis.  

What is the strongest herbal stimulant?

Guarana is thought to be the strongest herbal stimulant. This herb is native to the Amazon basin in Brazil.

What vitamin am I lacking if I am constantly tired?

These are the vitamins and minerals the deficiency of which can lead to constant tiredness and unexpected fatigue— B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, C, D, iron, and magnesium.

Vitamin D deficiency is very common and affects as many as 50% of the population worldwide.        

How to regain your energy as you age?

Leading a sedentary lifestyle can make a person weak in their latter years. However, it is possible to regain your energy and strength as you age.

In order to stay strong and energetic as you age, you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle with healthy habits and a healthy diet.  

A healthy lifestyle includes daily walks, weekly strength training, 7-9 hours of sleep per night, sticking to specific bedtimes.

A healthy diet includes plenty of water, protein-rich foods, and whole-grain foods. You would also need to limit your alcohol intake and quit smoking altogether.

If you still don’t regain your energy, consult a doctor as there can be an underlying medical reason for your low energy.                                  

Disclaimer- Please note that this blog is for informational purposes only. Make sure that you consult a doctor before you decide to start consuming any of the herbs mentioned in this blog.