Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus) is often used as an immune system tonic. What this means is that it helps to stimulate the immune system, and is able to be used on an ongoing basis. (Many herbs which stimulate the immune system can only be used for a limited period of time before they lose that effect or even have the reverse effect, but tonic herbs can be used continuously.) It also functions as an adaptogenic herbal tea, helping the body to deal with the physical effects of stress. It is often found in combinations that are intended to increase energy.

Astragalus has long been used as a Chinese remedy, and is a key herb in “FuZhen” therapy. FuZhen is concerned encouraging the body to use its natural healing abilities to maintain health and rejuvenate itself.

Astragalus provides the body with several isoflavone compounds, helps with production and secretion of interferon, works as an antiviral in the body, dilates coronary arteries, and has a diuretic effect.

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) could probably have an entire blog dedicated to itself, but we are going to list just the basics here. Green tea seems to have been first widely used in China, and traveled to Japan from there. The Japanese are, as a group, very interested in maintaining good health through nutrition and have regarded green tea as a healthful drink for centuries. It is also commonly accepted that green tea helps to control weight.

Green tea increases circulation, which is beneficial on every level. It acts as a mild stimulant, helping to increase metabolism and so is valued in weight loss programs. Green tea is even available in capsule and liquid extract forms for those who do not enjoy herbal teas, but the taste of green tea is one that most people find enjoyable. It is very commonly available flavored with various citrus fruits or other herbs as well.

Green tea is a wonderful source of anti-oxidants as well. Research continues to demonstrate the variety of beneficial effects from anti-oxidants, with specific ones affecting particular areas of the body. But it is generally accepted throughout those interested in health that anti-oxidants are powerful health-boosters.

Green tea is very rich in polyphenols and bioflavenoids. Green tea DOES contain caffeine unless it has been decaffeinated.

There are a number of common herbs used in tea blends and singly as an herbal tea that can increase energy levels. Be aware that some teas labeled “energy teas” owe most of their “boost” to caffeine rather to the action of any particular herbs.

Some herbs commonly used in energy teas include green tea, kombucha, panax ginseng, siberian ginseng (or eleuthero), yerba mate, guarana, noni, astragalus, goji berry, and Oolong (Wu-long) tea.

Green tea is high in antioxidants and is useful for cellular health and has anti-aging properties, and also increases metabolism slightly. For this reason, it is common in diet tea blends.

Kombucha is an adaptogenic herb, meaning that is helps the body deal with stress and helps protect against stress-related illnesses. It is also beneficial for immune function.
Siberian and panax ginseng both increase blood circulation and can improve mental functioning and sexual drive. They are adaptogenic herbs as well and help protect against stress-related illnesses.
Yerba mate is popular in Brazil, Argentina, and other South American countries where it is grown as a drink that replaces coffee or soda. It has a stimulant effect that feels similar to coffee, but for most people is gentler on the stomach.

Guarana is commonly used in weight-control capsule formulations and is a natural source of caffeine. It is also very popular in a variety of energy drinks and soft drinks.

Noni has the reputation of being an excellent energy booster for most people (although the taste can be rather difficult to tolerate, which is why it is often mixed with other herbs when used in a tea form).

Astragalus is an adaptogenic and is helpful for the immune system.

Goji is high in antioxidants and is associated with a wide variety of health benefits, which we will discuss further in a later post. It is sometimes used in weight loss formulas as well.

Oolong (or Wulong) tea has been long used in Asian countries for weight control and has recently become very sought-after in the US for this purpose. We will devote another full post to Oolong in the near future as well.

We hope this general introduction to energy teas has proven informative to our readers. Watch for more information on energy teas, herbal teas for other health concerns, and more. Bookmark us and check back, as we are updating frequently!