Herbs for Vitality
Herbs have long been recognized for their powerful ability to enhance vitality and rejuvenate the body. Incorporating herbs into our daily routine can infuse our cells with the nutrients they need, boosting energy levels and overall well-being. Herbs for vitality have adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Herbs that specialize in vitality are known for their ability to increase stamina and mental clarity and are renowned for their energy-boosting and immune-supporting qualities. Including these herbs in our diets, through food, teas, tinctures, or supplements, can unlock the full potential of our vitality, leaving us feeling energized and ready to embrace each day with everything we’ve got!
Storing Herbs
Light, heat, moisture, and exposure to air deteriorate dried botanicals. Store your dried herbs in airtight, light-shielding, dry containers that will keep out insects and rodents. Canning jars or clean recycled jars with tight fitting lids work best. Coffee cans, paper or plastic bags may be appropriate containers as well depending on the herb. Store in a dark, cool place.
Buying Herbs
Good herb has color, aroma, and flavor. Varieties of herbs as they are growing and co-mingling in the garden or in the wilds naturally show a diverse array of colors and shades of green. They will continue to show a similar diversity of color when properly harvested, dried and displayed in jars. Settle for nothing less than the best when it comes to herbs.
Recommended Herbal Vendors
Mountain Rose Herbs
Banyon Botanicals
Starwest Botanicals
Pacific Botanicals
Local *be sure to check out any spots local to you
Herbs for Vitality
Rosemary: commonly used for mental strain and fatigue in folk medicine. Rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are thought to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation. Rosemary is considered a cognitive stimulant and can help improve memory performance and quality. It is also known to boost alertness, intelligence, and focus.
Peppermint: is linked to greater alertness, performance, and motivation by serving as a central nervous system stimulant.
Ashwagandha: is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote youthful vigor, enhance muscle strength and endurance, and improve overall health.
Sage: has been used since ancient times to help to enhance memory and brain function. A tonic for the brain, sage helps to sharpen senses; provide clarity of thought, and promote vitality needed for proper cognitive skills. Research has found that sage can help to improve memory in young adults and is protective against neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, as it protects neurotransmitters within the brain.
Gotu Kola: has been a legendary herb in India and China for over two thousand years, where it’s considered to be one of the best herbs for promoting clarity, focus, and a peaceful, calm nature.
Maca: increases energy and stamina. Some researchers believe that unique substances appearing in the maca plant boost vitality.
Garlic: Ancient cultures used garlic to enhance the performance and reduce fatigue.
Herbal Artisan Bread
2 cups warm water
1 TBSP active dry yeast
¼ cup sugar
5 cups flour
2 tsp salt
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 tbsp Rosemary
1 tbsp Sage
1 tbsp Oregano
Garlic
Pre-heat oven to 350. Wrap garlic in tin foil and roast for 40mins. Squeeze the garlic into a bowl and mix with fresh herbs. Set aside. Place water in mixing bowl. Sprinkle sugar and yeast over water. Allow to stand for 5mins. Add flour, oil, herbs/garlic and salt. Knead 2 mins with mixer or 5mins by hand. Let rise for 1 hour. Divide dough in half, roll each half as wide as your bread pan. Tightly roll up, place in greased bread pans, seam side down. Let rise 30-40mins. Bake at 350 for 30mins or until golden brown. Let cool on rack, store in airtight container.
Vitality Nutta Butta Bites
16oz nut butter of choice
½ cup dried fruit
½ cup choco chips or cocoa nibs
¼ cup chia seeds
¼ cup honey or agave syrup
½ cup ashwagandha powder
½ tablespoon cinnamon powder
¼ cup maca powder
Coconut flakes, enough for coating
Mix everything together in a bowl. Chill in fridge for 1hr. Roll into balls, coat with coconut. Enjoy!
