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5 Lesser-Known Natural Supplements That Can Help You Feel Better

mushrooms in supplement

mushrooms in supplement

You may have heard of standard tablets like vitamin C and iron, but there are a whole host of lesser-known natural supplements that can be beneficial to you too! These supplements can be helpful for a variety of different reasons including improving energy levels, boosting cognitive function, and reducing inflammation. Here are five natural supplements that you may want to consider taking to enhance your physical and mental performance.

1. Mushrooms

It may seem strange to take mushrooms in supplement form, but this humble ingredient is capable of many great things. For example, Chaga mushrooms are thought to boost immunity and help reduce inflammation through their antioxidant properties. Meanwhile, lion’s mane mushrooms have been shown to improve cognitive function and increase energy levels, and shiitake mushrooms support white blood cell production and healthy blood glucose levels.

Although you can incorporate mushrooms into your diet through cooking, taking a supplement allows you to receive concentrated doses of these valuable ingredients in a much more convenient fashion. Some of the best mushroom supplements contain a proprietary blend of several different mushrooms so you can reap a full range of benefits at once. Be sure to choose a high-quality brand that uses certified organic mushrooms.

2. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is extracted from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree native to China. One of the oldest tree species in the world, Ginkgo biloba has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine ingredient for thousands of years. Modern research has shown that Ginkgo biloba can improve cognitive function and it is often used to help people experiencing age-related cognitive decline improve their memory and concentration.

In addition to cognitive benefits, Ginkgo biloba has also been shown to improve blood circulation, thus helping the brain to get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function well. This wonder herb also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect the nervous system from damage and reduce the risk of a range of chronic diseases.

Ginkgo biloba is commonly sold in capsule or tablet form as the Ginkgo biloba leaf has an unpalatable bitter and astringent taste.

3. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an ancient Indian plant that has been used for centuries as an Ayurvedic medicine. It is also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng. Ashwagandha is believed to help improve memory, attention, and overall cognitive function. It may also boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells to provide a strong defense against diseases and infections.

Many people take ashwagandha for its energy-boosting properties. The herb achieves this by reducing cortisol (stress hormone) levels and improving sleep quality, which leads to less stress and anxiety as well as improved energy levels. Ashwagandha is also consumed to enhance athletic performance and is thought to improve fertility in men.

Capsules and tablets are the most common form of ashwagandha supplements, but you can get ashwagandha powder or concentrated liquid extracts as well.

4. Rhodiola rosea

You may not have heard of Rhodiola rosea, but it has been used as a natural medicine for centuries in Russia and Scandinavian countries. Also known as arctic root or golden root, this flowering plant is native to the arctic regions of the world. Its roots are believed to have adaptogenic properties, which means that it can help the body adapt to stress and other environmental changes.

Like ashwagandha, Rhodiola rosea can help decrease stress levels and improve mood. It may also help increase energy, endurance, and physical performance by improving the body’s ability to utilize oxygen and produce energy. And—like every great natural herb—Rhodiola rosea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, to prevent chronic diseases and protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

When selecting Rhodiala rosea capsules, be wary of contamination. Ensure that you choose a reputable brand that employs third-party testing.

5. Eleuthero

This last herb on our list may sound made up, but its positive effects are no less than real. Eleuthero is a small, woody shrub found in Russia, which is why it is also called Siberian ginseng. Despite its name, it is not actually related to ginseng, though it does shares some similar properties.

The primary effect of eleuthero is to boost energy and physical performance. Therefore, it has been used extensively by Russian athletes to improve their performance in cold weather conditions. Through enhancing blood flow and pressure, eleuthero also has positive effects on cardiovascular health.

One interesting thing to know about eleuthero is that the plant can be used whole. The roots, bark, stems, leaves, and even fruit are all consumed in Russia and Eastern Europe as a natural medicine. In supplement form, eleuthero is most commonly available in capsules, tablets, or tinctures, or added to multivitamins.

Conclusion

Despite our best efforts, it can be hard to consume the right amount of nutrients to achieve optimum health. Fortunately, many natural herbal supplements can help. Whether you choose to take a blended multi-herb supplement or a specialized supplement with a single herb concentrate, the positive effects of these supplements can be hard to achieve through diet alone.

So, if you are looking for ways to boost your performance or prevent chronic diseases, try incorporating some of these supplements into your daily routine. And always consult with your healthcare professional before taking a new supplement.