Why Should you Consider Herbal Coffee Alternatives For Energy?

While in the early days of caffeine consumption, coffee can actually have positive energy stimulation on the body, after a while the body becomes dependent on caffeine and simultaneously builds a tolerance toward it. Because of this, many people will find themselves drinking more and more coffee over time – quickly increasing their caffeine consumption. 

In traditional Chinese medicine, Qi is known as the body’s vital energy.

While it may seem that caffeine would increase Qi, that is not always the case. In fact, more often than not, excessive caffeine consumption harms the flow of Qi in the body. For the body to maintain peak energy throughout the day, there needs to be a balanced level of Qi (energy) throughout the body’s vital organs. There are a few herbal caffeine substitutes that can help the body achieve this. 

Another fundamental concept in Chinese medicine is that of Yin and Yang, which can be defined as the body’s balance of opposing energies. Certain foods or drinks will either increase or decrease the body’s supply of Yin and Yang.

Drinks like coffee and alcohol are known to increase Yang.

For this reason, it can be damaging to people who have Yin deficiencies. This comes from coffee’s bitter, warm, and drying effects on the body. This type of Yin and Yang imbalance often results in symptoms of insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and high blood pressure. 

Should You Replace Coffee?

Everyone’s body is different, and has different balances of Yin and Yang, as well as deficiencies of Qi. While it isn’t fair to knock coffee as a whole, it’s safe to say there are better alternatives to the drink that can lead to excessive caffeine consumption – especially if that consumption is causing negative effects on the body. 

As the symptoms vary, it can be difficult to know which coffee alternative is best for each individual. However, with the right information on some powerful herbs like the ones presented above, the path to restored energy and balance is not so hard to find. 

Chinese Medicine Alternatives to Reduce Caffeine Dependency 

There are several natural supplements that can help restore Qi in the body’s vital organs and in still balance of Yin and Yang. Not only will these alternatives offer a tangible boost of vital energy, similar (but less volatile) to that of coffee, but they will also increase focus, replenish health, and provide a foundation of balance in the body. 

1. Ginseng: Calms the Body’s Spirit and Restores Essential Bodily Fluids 

This powerful root has been used in traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years, and more recently by athletes around the world. High performing individuals are often looking for a way to sustain high levels of energy throughout the day. While many look to coffee as a first choice, Ginseng may prove to be a better alternative. Studies have proven this herbal supplement is known to increase energy levels, relieve stress, and even increase athletic/physical performance, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain energy balance in a high-pressure environment. 

By increasing the body’s flow of Qi to some of its vital organs, many individuals report better immune system functions, blood sugar levels, improved mental functions, and most importantly, a better overall well-being. Ginseng won’t just improve spiritual, cognitive, and physical performance, but it will help restore a balance of energy in the body. This promotes a sustained level of overall function and well-being throughout the day. 

2. Astragalus: Provides Nourishment to the Spleen

One of the most popular methods of restoring the body’s Qi in Chinese Medicine is Astragalus, an incredible herb used in treatments worldwide. The effect this coffee alternative can have on the body is one of increased digestion and resistance to colds. When functioning properly, the spleen plays a special role in the body’s ability to fight invasive germs and infections by balancing the ratio of white/red blood cells. Astragalus can provide the necessary Qi to the spleen, so our body can operate at maximum immunity. 

Much like Ginseng, this herb has been used by athletes and other high-performance individuals to help ward off illnesses and maintain a balanced energy in the body. As individuals across cultures and countries are all looking for a way to sustain energy throughout their day, instead of turning to coffee, many people are looking to natural herbs like Astragalus. It can have profound effects on the body’s energy and overall health. 

3. Dong Quai: Nourishes the Blood of the Body 

Blood in the human body can be thought of as our life source. It transports oxygen and other essential nutrients to the lungs and other tissues, helping to support our overall functionality. While Dong Quai does support overall health and balance of red blood cells in the body, it is especially known to improve the reproductive health of women. 

Sometimes called the “female ginseng”, this special root is known to relieve cramps, premenstrual syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles, infrequent periods, and even menopausal symptoms. For many people, it is also used as a “blood purifier”, as it helps to manage hypertension, joint pain, and ulcers. By building Qi in the blood of the body, Dong Quai has proven to be a powerful alternative to common caffeine-centric supplements like coffee.