Medicinal roots often found in energy drinks are the underground parts of plants with therapeutic benefits that are commonly utilized for healing properties. You can brew these roots as tea or add them into tinctures for use.
These supplements contain taurine, an amino acid which does not increase heart rate, as well as guarana seeds – a stimulant similar to caffeine – which are also found in coffee. Furthermore, some may contain ephedrine which has been known to cause cardiovascular issues in some individuals.
Osha root
Osha Root (Ligusticum porteri) is an unstudied medicinal plant with a long tradition in North America, often used as a remedy against respiratory infections due to its natural antimicrobial and bronchodilatory properties as well as helping loosen mucus from the lungs for easier breathing. Furthermore, this natural remedy serves as both decongestant and immune booster.
This perennial plant, native to the Rocky Mountains, thrives at high elevations in deep soils rich in organic material and needs partial shade. Bears enjoy snacking on this delicious treat which has both medicinal and culinary uses, renowned among Native Americans and Hispanics alike; its roots may even be eaten raw or used to make tea!
Studies have demonstrated that Osha root contains antioxidants which may protect cells against oxidative stress and lower risks such as cancer, macular degeneration and other illnesses. Furthermore, this root can help reduce inflammation while simultaneously decreasing blood glucose levels.
Osha root has long been used as a healing aid by Native Americans and Hispanics alike, while currently it’s being utilized in alternative medicine to treat respiratory conditions and digestive disorders. Osha is also widely recognized as a powerful decongestant and immunity booster that has shown to promote healthy sleep patterns while increasing energy and endurance.
One study showed that osha root extract could suppress prostate tumor growth in mice by blocking a protein thought to promote cell proliferation and inhibiting cell division. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties help decrease pain associated with certain medical conditions and ease discomfort associated with them.
Osha root can be purchased as both a capsule supplement and in multi-ingredient products, so it is important to read and follow any label information for dosing instructions and product details. It may also be wise to consult a healthcare provider or herbalist before starting any new herbal regimen; since FDA doesn’t regulate supplements as tightly as prescription drugs do, certain products could contain ingredients that could be unsafe for you.
Ginseng root
Ginseng is a perennial herb used in China for thousands of years to treat various conditions, from improving immunity and memory enhancement, increasing energy and decreasing stress, to even mitigating side effects from certain medications like chemotherapy.
Ginseng plants grow worldwide and are harvested for use as herbal supplements or food ingredients; especially popular in Asia as teas and beverages. Unfortunately, too much ginseng consumption can have adverse side effects when taken in large doses; stomach upset, dizziness and even “fishy” body odor may result.
Many different varieties of ginseng are cultivated and used as medicine, including Asian and American. Each variety can be distinguished by its native habitat and unique medicinal properties; for instance, Asian ginseng roots tend to be larger with darker color than their American counterparts, and more expensive overall.
American Ginseng is the most common variety and widely considered to be more beneficial than Asian ginseng when it comes to medicinal benefits. It may provide anti-cancer, immunity boosting and antioxidant benefits while increasing endurance and improving cognition.
Studies conducted over recent years have demonstrated panax ginseng to have significant benefits in treating diabetes, such as decreasing fasting blood sugar levels and improving postprandial control of postprandial blood glucose. Furthermore, it may help prevent complications related to diabetes such as eye and kidney damage.
Ginseng plants are protected by state and federal laws against overharvesting and poaching, as the slow-growing plant takes five years to fully mature before it can legally be harvested legally. Furthermore, harvesting must only occur between September 1 and November 30, as any harvest outside this period could result in its death; to do this responsibly ginseng growers must seek permission from private landowners before harvesting their ginseng plants as well as submit it for inspection and weighing by an official from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Guarana seed
Guarana (Paullinia cupana) seeds contain high levels of caffeine, making them popular choices in energy drinks and multiingredient dietary supplements. Furthermore, these seeds also contain polyphenols like cathechin and epicathechin which may have anti-inflammatory effects as well as potentially contribute to its stimulating effects. Nonetheless, further research needs to be completed before their benefits can be fully verified.
Guarana has long been used as a medicinal and stimulating plant. The seeds contain high concentrations of methylxanthines and other alkaloids believed to contribute to its pharmacological effects. Harvested for their energy-boosting qualities and used as flavoring in beverages like tea. Guarana often co-exists with other herbs like kola nut or yerba mate; once harvested the seeds are shelled, dried, roasted before being ground into powders which can then be added directly into drinks or taken supplementally as part of supplements or as supplements.
Studies on Guarana have indicated it can improve mental alertness, decrease fatigue levels and increase physical endurance; furthermore it may assist with weight loss; however these studies must be replicated on humans before Guarana can be considered an effective treatment for obesity and related conditions.
Guarana seed, in addition to providing stimulant and energy-enhancing effects, also boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can reduce ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease gastrointestinal issues. A 2022 study also demonstrated how extracts of Guarana can inhibit production of bacterial folate in the digestive tract, potentially helping prevent inflammation as well as damage caused to gut lining – helping protect its integrity from further breakdown.
Guarana can provide additional protection from age-related macular degeneration, an eye condition affecting its central part. According to a 2017 study, it may help slow its progress by taking in sufficient amounts of guarana.
Guarana has been linked with hepatotoxicity in some individuals, and may contribute to liver injury through multiingredient supplements containing it. Therefore, its use should only be undertaken under medical advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner. However, research studies have demonstrated some beneficial properties of guarana in terms of speeding wound healing processes.
Inositol
Inositol (also referred to as myo-inositol) is an essential B vitamin found naturally in many food sources, helping cells produce cell membranes and respond to messages from outside. Additionally, studies have demonstrated its beneficial properties against depression – including manic depression. Furthermore, panic attacks and open spaces phobia may be reduced using this vitamin B supplement.
Inositol is generally well-tolerated as a dietary supplement; however, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or headaches with higher dosages. Furthermore, inositol may interact with medications used to affect serotonin levels so it’s a good idea to consult your physician prior to beginning taking inositol supplements. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid inositol products.
As for fertility, inositol has been shown to help reduce symptoms associated with PCOS and lead to greater chances of conception. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated its positive effects when combined with a diet rich in whole foods and antioxidants.
Noticeable effects from inositol can vary widely among individuals. Some may see improvement within months; others may take more. Consistent dosage is also key.
Apart from relieving symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, inositol has also been found to be beneficial in terms of women’s mood and mental health. Studies have revealed its ability to increase fertility by decreasing triglyceride and testosterone levels while simultaneously decreasing risk factors associated with obesity and diabetes. Furthermore, panic disorder and bipolar disorder were also reported reduced through its use.
While inositol is considered safe by most health professionals, as an FDA regulation would limit its availability. If you are pregnant or have diabetes, consult with a healthcare provider prior to beginning any new supplement regimen as inositol can interfere with some diabetic medications and cause blood sugar levels to spike – so monitor them closely!
