The Herbal Hack that Makes Workouts Better
Herbs can make getting in shape faster, more efficient and less painful.
People often think of using herbs for healing, to alleviate stress, improve digestion and get better sleep.
But herbs can also help us build strength, move better, and recover faster — especially when paired with physical activity.
Plant medicine can keep us moving and strong before, during and after working out. Using herbs with exercise has actually been a powerful duo for many, many years.
Restorative herbs have been used for thousands of years to improve vitality, stamina and longevity long before the word ‘adaptogen’ was a common phrase.
A Russian scientiest named Dr. Nikolai Lazarev coined the term ‘adaptogen’ in 1947 after World War II. His work started with ginseng as the intention was to find plants from all around the world that would help the body increase its resistance to stress to improve overall performance.
Adaptogens were initially researched to promote stamina for people serving in the military, but now they are used by athletes and herb lovers alike.
How is Exercise Performance Increased?
Herbs like adaptogens increase exercise performance by stimulating the body. Green tea, for instance, does this as it contains caffeine and catechin, an EGCG, which may enhance fat burning and energy expenditure. These compounds can stimulate the nervous system, leading to increased thermogenesis (heat in the body that burns fat).
Boost Endurance
When we want our energy to last longer, we want stamina and endurance. Adaptogens like ginseng and rhodiola can do exactly that.
Ginseng and green tea contain alkaloids that improve endurance.
Herbal adaptogens like rhodiola can reduce fatigue while improving both physical and mental endurance.
Improving Muscle Recovery
Everyone who’s worked out has experienced muscle stiffness and soreness.
Herbs increase muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting the repair of tissues.
Adaptogenic herbs help the body adapt to exercise stress which helps the muscles recover faster.
Herbs also improve the energy supply of muscles and reduce structural alterations from excercise stress.
Support for Midlife & Beyond
As we age, muscle loss becomes a real concern — especially after age 40, when we can lose up to 5% of muscle mass per decade. This decline accelerates after 60, making strength training and muscle support especially important for women in perimenopause and beyond.
Herbs can help maintain strength, reduce fatigue, and enhance the benefits of physical activity for older adults. Combined with a balanced diet and regular movement, they become powerful allies for aging vibrantly.
Ready to Feel Stronger, Clearer, and More Balanced?
If you’re navigating menopause, fatigue, stubborn weight, or simply want to feel more energized and supported in your body, herbs can help — and I’d love to guide you.
You can get started with Body Systems Questionnaire, a powerful tool that helps pinpoint which areas of your body need the most support — whether it’s adrenal fatigue, sluggish digestion, hormone imbalance, or more. Request your Body Systems Questionnaire by booking a free call.