BACK TO ASK THE HERBALIST INDEX

ANSWERS FROM KAREN:
QUESTION: I am going to run a marathon in 7 months and will start my training on Sat. I would like to know if there are any herbs that will increase my energy, endurance and stamina.

ANSWER: Good for you! I used to run marathons and the very best thing you can do is to eat a very healthy diet with organic meats, fresh, organic veggies and lots of whole grains. No sugar or preservatives at all..
 
Siberian Ginseng root, Gotu Kola, Peppermint leaves, Ginger root are all great for increasing energy. I would suggest a tea that you can put in your water bottle. I have a Low Energy Tea and a System Cleansing Tea that I would recommend. This will get all the toxins out of your body and then provide the extra energy you need. Of course, if you are training properly, that energy will come. ( I use to get my burst at about 3 miles!)
 
You can find the teas on the website at www.allgoodegifts.com in the Apothecary. Good Luck in the marathon!


ANSWERS FROM DAVID:
HERBS FOR ATHLETES
QUESTION: I AM AN AMATUER TRIATHLETE, AND I WAS WONDERING WHAT HERBS WOULD BE GOOD FOR ME

ANSWER: For you because I do not know everything about you, here is the answer to your question.

If I were you I would begin with Siberian Ginseng, Chinese Named Ci Wu Jia /Sue Woo Ja/, Latin Named: Eleutherococcus senticosis

This herb was used by Russian and Soviet Athletes to improve performance. This herb helps the body deal with stress, facilitates healing, lessen recovery time, increases mitochondria function (energy building blocks of cells), reduce fatigue, increase endurance and stamina.

The only caution I am aware of is it could cause insomnia in some individuals, but normally it does not overstimulate.

It does normally require a fairly large dose to see results for a more thorough recommendation I would need more specific information about you.

Suggested form would be Tea or Alcohol based Tincture.