Understanding the Different Varieties of Herbal Supplements: A Comprehensive Guide

While conventional medicine remains the first port of call for many people suffering from various ailments, herbal supplements have garnered significant impressions among wellness aficionados in recent years. 

Estimates put the global herbal medicine market size at USD 216.40 billion in 2023, with the industry predicted to reach USD 371.45 billion by 2030. That represents a record-high compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.02% over the forecast period. 

Herbal extracts are mostly beloved for their high safety profile compared to mainstream medicine. More exciting is the vast category of plants to experiment with. 

This article looks at the different varieties of herbal supplements to add to your wellness routine.

1. Anxiolytics

Anxiolytics provide relief from nervousness. These herbs are effective against chronic irritability. They’re often contrasted with their anxiogenic counterparts, which are known to cause or exacerbate edginess. 

Kratom is a noteworthy example of an anxiolytic herb. Originally from Southeast Asia, this plant has recently gained global attention for its numerous perceived health benefits. Kratom occurs in various strains, with each breed producing unique effects. 

Green Hulu Kapuas is one of the best kratom strains touted for its anxiolytic properties. This cultivar is endemic to the fertile soils along Indonesia’s Kapuas River. It’s also one of the rarest kratom strains available. Therefore, it’s prudent to exercise caution and buy authentic Green Kapuas Kratom from reputable vendors. 

One way to vouch for the authenticity of green Kapuas Hulu (and other kratom strains in general) is to prioritize products that have undergone rigorous screening by independent testing laboratories.

2. Adaptogens

Adaptogens are closely related to anxiolytics regarding the medical conditions they may alleviate. 

According to most researchers, adaptogens must meet three primary requirements. Those include; (i) the ability to detox the body from the adverse effects of stress, (ii) the ability to cushion the user from other related medical problems, and (iii) a lower propensity for adverse events. 

Adaptogens provide the body with an effective coping mechanism during heightened irritability. So, while they may not cure the underlying cause, these herbs make the ensuing symptoms less problematic. 

Common adaptogens include ashwagandha, holy basil, Rhodiola rosea, and Schisandra chinensis.

3. Nootropics

Also known as smart drugs, nootropics are herbal supplements proven to boost cognitive functioning. 

Certain nootropics improve specific aspects of cognitive performance, while others are more broad-spectrum. Consuming these herbal extracts might help with reduced attention span, slow learning pace, and diminished memory consolidation. The plants are particularly effective against the impairment of cognitive abilities. 

Panax ginseng often comes up highly recommended when searching for nootropic herbs. Multiple findings have shown that this medicinal herb may combat brain fatigue and enhance the performance of mentally strenuous tasks, such as solving math problems. 

Ginkgo biloba is another noteworthy nootropic herb to consider. In one study, supplementing with ginkgo for six weeks demonstrated a marked improvement in learning and memory consolidation among healthy older adults. 

Coffee, ashwagandha, and Bacopa monnieri are other popular nootropic herbs noted for their remarkable brain-enhancing capabilities.

4. Anti-inflammatories

Inflammation is one of the most common medical issues. It’s an immune response triggered by the presence of foreign substances in the body, such as pathogens and splinters. 

While most inflammations typically resolve on their own, they can cause excruciating discomfort while they last. That’s where anti-inflammatory herbs like ginger come in. 

Ginger is loaded with over 100 active ingredients, including gingerol, zingerone, shogaol, and zingiberene. These compounds boast a host of health benefits, including the ability to treat inflammation. 

Garlic is another powerful anti-inflammatory herb to add to your wellness program. An in-depth review found that supplementing with garlic for 4 – 48 weeks might reduce the levels of the proinflammatory marker CRP. The herb derives most of its therapeutic properties from its sulfur compounds, including allicin and diallyl disulfide.

5. Antihistamines

It’s common practice to stock up on antihistamine tablets while embarking on a jungle experience. 

But unknown to many nature lovers, natural antihistamine options are all around us. You only need to know where to look. 

Fortunately, numerous fruits and vegetables abound in antihistamines. The trick is to look out for supplements containing quercetin as an active ingredient. 

Quercetin is one of the most powerful and prevalent natural antihistamines. The compound is particularly high in citrus fruits, although you can also find it in alternative plants like parsley, sage, onions, berries, and green tea. Supplementing these natural products might help with common allergies like runny nose, coughing, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

6. Vasodilators

Vasodilators are substances that dilate (expand) constricted blood vessels. These herbs might help improve the symptoms of heart and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as arteriosclerosis and varicose veins. 

Vasodilators have also proven useful against erectile dysfunction (ED). One of the causes of ED is reduced blood flow to the sexual organs. So, by ramping up blood circulation, vasodilators may help to achieve and maintain longer erections. 

While searching for the most potent vasodilators, insist on herbal supplements rich in nitrates. Leafy vegetables like spinach and radishes are particularly high in nitrates. 

When consumed, the body converts those nitrates into nitric oxide. High nitric oxide levels consequently expand narrowed blood vessels.

 

Final Word

Herbal supplements vary significantly in their distinctive effects. Therefore, it’s prudent to pick a plant that aligns with your wellness goals. 

More importantly, consult a licensed medical practitioner before using herbal supplements to manage whatever medical condition you’re seeking relief from.