All Natural Caffeine-Free Energy Drink

When we are under a lot of stress and showing signs of adrenal fatigue http://theverbalherbal.blogspot.com/2012/08/too-much-stress-can-lead-to-adrenal.html, our bodies are so worn out that we often turn stimulant like coffee and energy drinks to get us going in the morning and keep us going throughout the day. Energy drinks are not good for us and can be extremely dangerous so I wanted to provide an all natural and caffeine-free energy drink.

Avoid Caffeine in Times of stress

Caffeine works by binding to adenosine receptor sites, therefore, blocking adenosine’s ability to decrease and slow nerve activity. Caffeine also increases the speed of neuron firing. All of this increased activity makes the pituitary gland think there’s an emergency and it signals to the adrenals to release adrenalin making us alert for this non-existent emergency. If we are already stressed and fatigued, coupled with the added stress of caffeine then it is bound to lead to adrenal fatigue if you don’t already have it.

The Truth about Energy drinks

Energy drinks are even worse than coffee or tea. A typical energy drink can contain anywhere from 70 to 200 mg of caffeine, double the amount found in coffee, and the caffeine found in energy drinks is more damaging because with coffee and tea, the caffeine occurs naturally in the plant material which also contains antioxidants to buffer the damaging effects of caffeine. Energy drinks are one of the fastest growing markets for beverages, pulling in $9 billion in 2011. And they are marketing to youth as well. 1 in 3 teens and young adults regularly consumes them. And energy drinks can cause heart palpitations, seizures, chest pain, increased blood pressure, strokes and even sudden death. Your chances of experiencing damaging side effects from energy drinks increase among young individuals.

All Natural Caffeine-free Energy Drink

My energy drink is cheaper and healthier than typical energy drinks, but the down fall is that it does require a little more preparation. The recipe is as follows: -2 cups of water -3 Tbs Peppermint leaf -2 Tbs Nettle Leaf -1 Tbs Elethero -1 Tbs Ashwaganda or another adaptogen if you choose not to use ashwaganda -1 Tbs Guto Kola leaf -1/2 cup of Coconut water

In a pot mix the water, elethero and ashwaganda. Cover and bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add the peppermint, nettle and guto kola. Steep the mixture for at least 10 minutes. Strain and refrigerate the liquid. Once it is cooled add the coconut water and now you have an all natural energy drink. You can make a big batch and have enough for several days. Below is a little information about each of the ingredients.

Peppermint

Peppernint (Mentha x piperita) is a nervine stimulant that helps to activate the nerve endings by increasing circulation and nourishment. Balancing and stimulating the nerves helps to combat fatigue, weakness and absent-mindedness. It also has a renewing and refreshing flavor and aroma that helps to invigorate the body. 

Nettle

Nettles (Urtica dioica) is such a valuable plant. This tonic is rich in iron, calcium, potassium, silicon, magnesium, manganese, zinc, chromium and other vitamins and minerals. It helps individuals regain their energy when dealing with chronic and degenerative diseases by strengthening the kidneys. Nettles is so useful for so many things that herbalist David Hoffmann says, “when in doubt, use nettles” and I completely agree!

Elethero

Elethero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as Siberian ginseng, is one of the primary adaptogens used today. It helps to enhance physical and mental performance and improve the individual’s wellbeing. It restores the nerves by enhancing the body’s resistance to stress and by toning Qi, Blood and essence, Elethero increases endurance and stamina. It may interfere with heart medications and should be used with care in cases of severe hypertension.

Ashwaganda

Ashwaganda (Withania somniferum) is another adaptogen that helps to give strength back to the body. Its active ingredient, withanolides, can increase stamina, decrease stress, soothe agitated nerves and promote well being. As a natural MAOI, ashwaganda can increase the availability of dopamine in the brain. It may heighten the effects of barbiturates and should not be taken during pregnancy.

Guto Kola

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is another wonderful and invigorating herb. As a nerve tonic, it helps to rejuvenate the body and the mind. It can increase alertness by nourishing the brain and is helpful in cases of nervous stress and debility. For more in-depth information regarding Guto Kola: http://theverbalherbal.blogspot.com/2012/05/daily-herb-o-scope-gotu-kola-to.html

Coconut Water

I feel that coconut is a great addition to this energy drink because it helps to hydrate the body and balance out electrolytes. For more information about this, check out: http://theverbalherbal.blogspot.com/2012/06/rehydrate-with-homemade-electrolyte.html I chose to get unsweetened coconut water because I like the flavor of the blend; however, you may wish to get the sweetened coconut water or add a little honey to your blend.

When you are already stressed and fatigued, the last thing you want to do is make the problem worse, and that’s what caffeine and energy drinks are doing. But sometimes you just need a little bit of a boost, especially in the morning or mid day. I find this energy drink to be tasty and effective, and it not only helps to wake you up but the adaptogens in the blend help to address the root of issues. So give this drink a try and let me know what you think. 

Sources:

Duke, J. A. (2000). The green pharmacy herbal handbook: your comprehensive reference to the best herbs for healing. Emmaus, Pa: Rodale Reach.

Gladstar, R. (2001). Rosemary Gladstar's family herbal: a guide to living life with energy, health, and vitality. North Adams, Mass.: Storey Books.

Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical herbalism: the science and practice of herbal medicine. Rochester, Vt.: Healing Arts Press.

Holmes, P. (2007). The energetics of Western herbs: a materia medica integrating

Western and Chinese herbal therapeutics (Rev & enl. 4th ed.). Cotati, Calif.: Snow Lotus Press.

Mars, B. (2007). The desktop guide to herbal medicine. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Publications.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/24642-main-ingredients-energy-drinks/

http://www.jonbarron.org/diabetes/nl100726/natural-health-newsletter-adrenal-fatigue

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/41577256/ns/today-today_health/t/energy-drinks-can-be-dangerous-teens-report-says/

Herbal remedies for children's Ear Infections

Ear infections are an issue that many children encounter. The Eustachian tube, the tube that links the middle ear to the throat, does not fully develop till about 4 years of age. Until then its position and size doesn't allow for proper drainage and it easily becomes clogged. When the Eustachian tube becomes plugged up with excess mucus, moisture and bacteria build up leading to an ear infection. I'd like to talk a little bit about what we can do naturally and herbally to prevent and treat ear infections.

Antibiotics are the main treatment used by western medicine for ear infections. Although their intention is to rid the body of bacteria that is causing infection, they are often over used in the treatment of childhood illnesses. This causes strains of bacteria to become resistant to the antibiotics leading to the need for stronger and more frequent antibiotics. Antibiotics are strong and disrupt the delicate balance of kids bodies.


Prevention is the key when it comes to ear infections. If there is a case of reoccurring ear infections, you may wish to avoid mucus forming foods. These foods include dairy, wheat, sugar, eggs and processed foods. Not surprisingly, these are the foods that people most often have allergies to. An elimination diet should be done with your child to see if the chronic ear infections are the result of food allergies. In any case these foods should be avoided during the duration of the ear infection. Cold foods and eating fruit out of season can also contribute to cold and mucus in the body. Try to avoid cold fruit and fruit juice straight from the refrigerator in cases of infection.


A simple wool hat can be an amazing tool in the prevention of ear infections. A hat can block cold and wind from getting into the ear and causing an infection. Probiotics are especially important in the treatment and the prevention of ear infections. They help contribute to the body's natural defense system. They are especially important to give your child if they are taking antibiotics. Probiotics help replenish the natural healthy flora that antibiotics destroy.


In order to effectively treat ear infections naturally, it is important to start treatment at the first sign of infection. Colds, congestion and runny noses can easily lead to ear infections. Kids will often pull at their ear or rub their ears when an infection is present.


The most effective remedy for ear infections, that I've found, is garlic mullen ear oil. It helps to relieve the pain and treat the infection. This is something that can be purchased from the health food store or you can easily make it. In a jar add several tablespoons of chopped garlic and several tablespoons of mullen flowers. Cover the herbs with extra virgin olive oil and put the lid on. Let it set for a week, strain and place in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. When you are ready to use it, let it warm to room temperature before placing several drops in the ear. Make sure that you use the oil in both ears, even if the infection is currently present in only one ear because the infection can spread to the other ear.


Echinacea tincture should be utilized during times of infection to help boost the immune system. Aviva Romm suggests 1 drop of tincture per 2 lbs of body weight taken 4 times a day. Chamomile tea can also be an asset helping to calm and soothe an upset and distressed child.


In Chinese Medicine the ear is the outlet of the kidneys. Chronic issues of the ears represent the distress of the kidneys. Nettle tea is very nourishing and helpful to issues of the kidneys. Also warm packs placed on the lower back (the kidney area) can help to increase circulation to the area. Warm packs on the ears can also help to bring circulation to the ears.


Rest is, perhaps, the most important part to the healing of illness in children and never underestimate the power of a little TLC. When the ear infection does not respond to home care or if it gets worse it is important to seek medical care.


Sources:

Gladstar, R. (2001). Family herbal: a guide to living with energy, health and vitality. North Adams, MA: Storey Books.

Romm, A. (2003). Naturally healthy babies and children: a commonsense guide to herbal remedies, nutrition and health. Berkeley, CA: Celestial Arts.