Naturally Boost Energy And Mental Concentration

by: Amelia Bentrup

(NaturalNews) The months of August and September frequently bring about an increased work and activity load for many students, adults and parents. Energy levels and mental concentration may lag during this time. People from all walks of life can benefit from the energy boost that various herbs, amino acids and other natural supplements provide. Gingko, ginseng, and rhodiola rosea are three herbs that improve memory and mental concentration. L-ornithine, L-tryptophan and L-arginine are amino acids that have been shown to improve physical performance and stamina. Peppermint essential oil and coenzymeQ are other natural substances that have been shown to improve either mental or physical performance. These results have been demonstrated by various human studies conducted in recent years in various research facilities around the world.

Ginseng is probably the most well-known energy boosting herb. Is has been said to provide wisdom and enlightenment to the mind.. Ginseng is an adaptogen, which simply means that it helps the body return to a normal state after physical or mental stress. Studies have shown that ginseng improves aerobic capacity and work. Gingko is another very well-known herb. It is best known for improving memory. In fact, various studies have shown that gingko extract has a positive effect on memory retention and can help prevent age-related dementia.

A 2003 study showed that Rhodiola rosea can be used therapeutically to treat mental fatigue. Rhodiola rosea is an herb that is native to cold regions of the world. It can be drunk as a tea or taken in supplemental form. In the study, one-hundred and sixty-one cadets between the ages of 19 and 21 were given either a single dose of rhodiola rosea or a placebo and then had their capacity for mental work tested. Rhodiola rosea was shown to have a significant anti-fatigue effect.

Aromatherapy can also be useful for treating mental fatigue. The aroma of peppermint essential oil has the ability to increase mental alertness.

CoenzymeQ is a vitamin-likes substance which is necessary for healthy cell functioning. It is found naturally in high concentration in organic beef, pork and chicken heart, some fish, grapeseed oil and sesame seeds. A 2008 study showed that oral supplementation with CoenzymeQ decreased the subjective feeling of fatigue and increased physical performance during a workload.

Amino acids are also key players in improving both mental and physical capabilities.
L-ornithine is an amino acid that is not found in high concentrations in meat or fish. A 2008 study showed that L-ornithine supplementation lowered the subjective feeling of fatigue after a physical performance test. L-arginine is another amino acid that has been shown to increase a person's capacity for physical work. This amino acid is naturally found in organic raw certified dairy products, organic chicken, several types of seafood, wheat germ, chickpeas, oatmeal and nuts. Finally, L-tryptophan has also been shown to decrease fatigue perception and improve physical performance. Tryptophan is naturally found in organic eggs, pumpkin seeds, cod, various organic meats, salmon, cheese made from raw milk, and perch.

Whether you are looking to increase your physical energy or your mental energy, one of the aforementioned natural products is sure to help. Try adding more coenzymeQ, arginine and tryptophan containing foods to your diet for increased physical energy, and consider supplementing with ginseng, gingko or rhodiola to improve mental sharpness.