Herbals cures to combat fatigue

Coffee is the strongest natural form of caffeine. However, coffee is addictive and drinking more than three cups a day could lead to problems such as jangled nerves and diarrhea.

Other sources of caffeine include colas, tea, cocoa, and South-American beverages such as yerba mate. Although tea has comparatively lesser caffeine, it contains more of Theophylline, which in its pure form, is used to treat Asthma. Like caffeine, it causes nervousness, insomnia and increased heart rate.

However, in cases of stress-induced fatigue, which could lead to loss of sleep at night an exhaustion during the day, folk practitioners prescribe variety of herbal relaxants, including valerian and lavender.

Black Tea: A cup of black tea contains about 30mg of caffeine. About two doses (60mg) of this tea act as a stimulant increasing activity of central nervous system. The tea can be prepared by pouring a cup of boiling water over one and a half teaspoon of black tea leaves. Allow it to steep for five minutes. Strain and drink.

Valerian: It is a sleeping aid which has been in use for more than 2000 years now, and has been helpful in treating stress-induced fatigue. Pour one cup of boiling water to ½ to 1 teaspoon of minced fresh roots, or mix a few drops of valerian extract or tincture into a glass of warm water. This makes a good bedtime tea. However, it is not advisable to be used for longer than two weeks.

Lavender: The herb has been well-known as a calmative. The dried flowers or an extract of the herb can be added to warm bath water, just prior to bed time. The oil too can be dabbed on to the temples before bedtime.