Natural remedies to boost energy and wellbeing

B group vitamins: Some evidence suggests that people with chronic fatigue may be lacking in B vitamins, especially B6. Nutritional therapists often use supplements containing vitamin-B complex to treat low energy levels.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA): This is a vitamin-like antioxidant that acts as a co-enzyme with B-group vitamins to speed metabolic reactions that are needed for energy.

Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This is essential for energy production in cells. One study involving 15 middle-aged men found that taking oral supplements of CoQ10 increased exercise tolerance and vigour.

Evening primrose oil: Take evening primrose oil (500 mg - 1000 mg per day) to gain essential fatty acids (EFAs) often lacking from your diet. EFAs are shown to have significant beneficial effects in 70 to 80 per cent of people with chronic fatigue.

Guarana: This is a complex of natural stimulants, including guaranine (almost identical to caffeine but has a slow-release effect in the body). Guarana is used to increase alertness, energy levels and relieve fatigue.

Kelp: A nutritious seaweed containing vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids and trace elements. It is traditionally taken to help maintain energy levels as it's a good source of iodine (a trace element needed for the manufacture of thyroid hormones).

Kelp may be beneficial for those whose lack of energy is linked with poor iodine intakes. It should only be taken under supervision of a medical herbalist in anyone with known thyroid disease, however.

Magnesium: Needed for the optimum function of over 300 enzymes, magnesium is vital for every major metabolic reaction including the metabolism of essential fatty acids and production of energy from glucose. Lack of magnesium is common and is estimated to affect as many as one in ten people. Symptoms can include loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, weakness, muscle trembling and cramps.

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus): This is classed as an adaptogen: it helps the body to adapt and cope during times of stress. It is used extensively to improve stamina and strength, particularly during/after illness and when suffering from stress and fatigue.

Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng): This is one of the oldest known energising tonics belonging to two main groups:

• Those with a sedative action (e.g. Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd) that are mostly derived from small lateral roots
• Those with a stimulating action (e.g. Rg1, Re, Rf, Rg2) that are mostly derived from the larger tap root

Clinical trials show that ginseng helps the body adapt to physical or emotional fatigue. It is stimulating and restorative, improving physical and mental energy, stamina, strength, alertness and concentration.

Ginseng shouldn't be taken for more than six weeks without a break. In the East, ginseng is taken for a two weeks on, two weeks off cycle. Some practitioners recommend taking it for a six weeks on, eight weeks off cycle.