Herbs for Focusing & Energy
A quick search of the Internet will turn up an endless array of results for herbs that boost energy and/or concentration. The choices seem endless. Therefore, it is important that you do your research before taking any herbs, making sure they fit your lifestyle and do not negatively interact with any medications you're currently taking. It is always best to consult a doctor before taking any herbal supplements.
An Herb for Both Energy and Focus
Ginseng is the most common and widely available herb that is effective for both increasing energy and focus/attention. The benefits of ginseng, along with its other medicinal properties, are due to chemical compounds called ginsenosides, which are found in the root of the plant. Ginseng also contains what is known as adaptogens, which help the body rejuvenate itself. Unlike caffeine, ginseng does not provide the instant jolt of energy. Rather, it fine tunes the body and mind, increasing energy levels while reducing the effects of stress and fatigue. Ginseng has even shown promise in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome. Once it is dried, the root of ginseng is marketed in many forms: tablets and capsules, creams, extracts, and teas.
Herbs Specifically for Improving Energy
Guarana appears in many energy drinks and supplements. It is derived from a berry found on an evergreen vine common to Venezuela and northern parts of Brazil. The chemical compound found in guarana is known as guaranine and it is identical to caffeine. The seed of guarana, however, contains seven percent more caffeine than most other plants, which includes coffee beans. As with other caffeinated products, guarana my cause insomnia, heart palpitations and anxiety.
Having originated in Asia, ephedra is another herb that has a long history as a stimulant. Ephedra, however, does not contain caffeine, but rather ephedrine. Ephedrine boosts the body's metabolic rate, as well as heart rate and blood pressure. For this reason, those with heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and glaucoma should steer clear of ephedra. In fact, if you are thinking of taking ephedra, it is wise to first consult a medical professional.
Herbs Specifically for Improving Focus
Ginkgo biloba is possibly the most popular herb currently marketed for the improvement of cognitive abilities. This includes a higher degree of focus, as well as memory. Ginkgo biloba is derived from the leaves of the ginkgo tree. According to the writers at LearningInfo.org, the recommended daily dose of ginkgo biloba is 120 mg of dried extract taken orally two or three times a day.
In the far East, legend has it that elephants owe their exceptional memory to the daily consumption of the gotu kola herb. This herb is not only purported to increase memory, but to boost other cognitive abilities such as attention and concentration. Gotu kola should be confused with kola nut, which is a stimulant herb that contains caffeine. In an attempt to prove gotu kola's ability to improve cognitive function, Khon Kaen University, based in Thailand, tested the herb on elderly subjects. The results showed that high doses of the plant improved memory ratings and shows promise in increasing cognitive function.
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