Q. Dear Terry, “I could really use some help with increasing my energy levels. After having COVID almost a year ago, my energy levels are still low. I don’t do well with caffeine, so I’m looking for other options. Any ideas?” – C.M., Pocatello, ID

A. Dear C.M., To help increase energy levels – physical and mental – I think red ginseng (Panax ginseng) can be very beneficial. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years to help improve energy levels. It is one of the world’s oldest adaptogens and can help you respond to stressors more appropriately. If you’re feeling mentally worn down, then ginseng can help you feel focused. If you’re feeling physically fatigued, then ginseng can help you find the stamina you need.

One of the biggest issues with ginseng is the cultivation. Wild ginseng is disappearing and farmed ginseng can be detrimental to the environment due to pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Fortunately, there are some new ways to grow ginseng that use novel hydroculture techniques, which results in a much cleaner and more powerful ginseng. Hydroculture techniques help to increase the levels of naturally occurring and highly sought-after compounds, called noble ginsenosides.

In a usage study with red ginseng containing high levels of noble ginsenosides, the ginseng group noticed more energy, better physical health, improved cognitive performance, better sleep, and overall satisfaction within ten days.

In a recent study by Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, world-renowned expert in chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, this unique hydroculture red ginseng showed significant benefits in the participants. Participants were given ginseng in a capsule or chewable form for one month. At the end of the study, over 60% of participants noticed benefits. There was a 67% improvement in energy, 44% improvement in well-being, 48% improvement in mental clarity, 46% improvement in sleep, and 72% improvement in stamina.

I would take 100 mg of hydroculture red ginseng with gamma cyclodextrin for enhanced absorption or 200 mg of the same ginseng in a capsule form, once or twice per day. 

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally