What are supplements?
Supplements are dietary products manufactured with the intention of enriching one’s diet. Multivitamins are probably the most well-known example of a supplement, but supplements can also take the form of minerals (iron, magnesium, zinc, etc) and more popularly, herbs and other botanicals. Supplements are used by individuals who wish to improve their health by lowering their risk of certain health issues later in life, or because they have a deficiency in a certain vitamin or mineral.
Herbal supplements in particular have been used for thousands of years and are becoming more and more popular among people all over the world. Here are some examples of some popular herbal supplements and some that many may not have heard of. Here is The Comprehensive List of Gym Supplements in Nigeria
#1: Acai Berry
Acai berries come from the acai palm tree native to South America, and they are much richer in antioxidants than other types of berries, such as blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Antioxidants are commonly used in cancer prevention. Other benefits of acai include lowering cholesterol and aiding in weight loss. Its effectiveness is not 100% proven, but many health benefits can be linked to acai berry consumption.
#2: Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a plant that is becoming an increasingly popular herbal supplement. It’s typically used for anxiety, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), insomnia, respiratory issues, and a host of other ailments. It’s considered what is called an adaptogen, which helps the body cope with stress. Clinical research has shown that taking ashwagandha in small amounts has positive effects. More studies need to be done to confirm this. Here is What You Need to Know about Ashwagandha
#3: Black Seed
Like many of the herbs on this list, black seed has been used medicinally for centuries. Today it’s most commonly used for joint and arthritis pain, but it has also been documented to improve lung function. It is usually consumed in oil form or in capsule form.
#4: Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol is also known as CBD, and it has become increasingly popular over the last few years. CBD is the non-psychoactive component of the Cannabis sativa (marijuana) plant. It’s most commonly used for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, and several other disorders, and can be consumed in a variety of different ways.
#5: Elderberry
Elderberries come from the European Elder Tree, and they are most commonly used to make medicine. Evidence has shown that elderberry is highly effective when fighting the common cold and flu, and it’s also effective in reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. It’s best consumed when the berries are cooked, but many people take it in “gummy” or capsule form.
#6: Fish Oil
Fish oil supplements are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce swelling and pain. It’s also beneficial for brain health and heart health. A fish oil supplement isn’t always necessary, as the omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in fish, such as tuna, mackerel, and salmon.
If you have ever ingested a fish oil supplement, you know it is not the easiest or tastiest thing to do. Just like fish oil, several supplements have their own pungent taste and smell that might prevent your ability to swallow them. In this regard, experts recommend the use or oral medication help. These are harmless gels that are odourless and tasteless, but help in allowing you to swallow supplements and vitamins of all shapes, smells and form.
#7: Moringa
Moringa is a plant that is native to several tropical regions. The fruit and seeds of the plant are most commonly consumed, but the leaves can be consumed too. It’s been noted to treat a wide variety of conditions, such as inflammation, respirator issues, digestive issues, thyroid issues, high blood pressure, and many more ailments.
#8: Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN)
NMN powder is a naturally-occuring substance found in humans and all other living beings. It’s the basic level of another important coenzyme called Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), which is one of the most abundant molecules in the human body. Benefits of NAD+ include DNA repair and a healthy metabolism. 500mg is considered a safe amount of this supplement to take daily.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that while many herbal supplements are used for medicinal purposes, all herbal supplements may not be the best choice for everyone in lieu of medication. Always consult with a medical professional when considering an herbal supplement as treatment for a medical issue. Herbal supplements may be a good alternative for some, but not always for everyone, as some supplements may worsen certain pre-existing medical conditions.
