Cramming for multiple exams during the next couple of days? Trying to focus in the library or pay attention during early morning lectures, but can't find the willpower to keep awake? Students often turn to quick-fixing stimulants such as coffee and energy drinks to revitalize themselves, but these can be detrimental to the body and can have harmful side effects such as insomnia or anxiety. Instead, more people are turning to herbal medicines as an all-natural alternative. There are a number of herbal products that can be used to combat fatigue, short-term memory, as well as many other physical and emotional discomforts.

Herbal medicines have been used throughout many parts of the world for thousands of years. Western medicine was first impacted by herbal medicines when Native Americans introduced several important herbs used as natural remedies. Most of these remedies were put out of use by the time antibiotics were developed and went on to become widely circulated. Recently, herbs have begun to regain their popularity, although some doctors have been reluctant to prescribe these medicines due to a lack of clinical research on their effectiveness and possible side effects [1].

Nevertheless, herbal medicine has been slowly gaining acceptance among the medical community to treat chronic diseases. The approach that focuses on herbal remedies is categorized as a holistic type of medicine. From this perspective, the body is viewed as a whole entity rather than many individual parts. The principle holistic mentality is to discover the underlying causes of diseases to help prevent future recurring symptoms [1]. If factors such as diet, lifestyle, and stress can be more fully understood, then the causes of the problem can be addressed more successfully.

Of the many herbal products available in the market, some of the most popular types are as follows:

Ginkgo Biloba: For those who suffer from short-term memory loss, ginkgo may be the herb of choice. It inhibits the breakdown of neurotransmitters involved in memory and also acts as an antioxidant in protecting the central nervous system [1]. Studies have shown that gingko not only stabilized memory in most subjects with Alzheimer's disease, but it also improved memory in twenty percent of patients [2].

Ginseng: This herb is used to increase energy and reduce stress. Its main active ingredients are called ginsenosides, which act in response to stress. Ginseng also has vitamins A, B-6, and the mineral zinc, which are important in stimulating the immune system [1].

Echinacea: Taking echinacea may be ideal for counteracting the common cold and influenza brought about by winter weather. The main ingredient responsible for its effects is still uncertain, however studies show that a group of polysaccharides is responsible for increasing the number of phagocytes that destroy foreign invaders [1].

Valerian: For those who suffer from mild anxiety or have recurring insomnia, valerian may be as effective as an over-the-counter drug. Not much is known about the main active ingredient, but valerian does contain a compound called valeric acid which may be responsible for the herb's sedating qualities [1].

The number of available herbal products can be overwhelming and may cause individuals to question which supplement is best for them. Several factors should be considered when attempting to choose the most suitable product. When choosing a supplement, it is best to buy its standardized extract, which is a quality marker that indicates the amount of active ingredients in the product [1]. One should also be sure that the supplement has been manufactured to meet USP standards, which ensures that the supplement has met quality and potency requirements set by the U.S. Pharmacopoeia [3]. The botanical name should also be double-checked to ensure that it is the appropriate herb for treating particular symptoms. For example, ginseng includes many species that have distinct properties and potentially different effects on various symptoms. Above all, it is important for consumers to first consult his or her physician, who can recommend herbal supplements that might best complement certain diets or other prescription medications being used [3]. While natural medicines are currently becoming a strong alternative to traditional drugs and treatment method, they should never be considered substitutes for certified and knowledgeable physicians.