Tired, unmotivated, and blah? These herbal remedies will snap you out of it fast.
You know that sluggish, foggy feeling that creeps in every spring? The kind that makes you want to crawl back under the covers instead of soaking up the sunshine? You’re not alone. As the seasons shift, so do energy levels, moods, and motivation—and sometimes, it’s just plain hard to shake off the funk.
Nature has a way of pulling you out of that rut, no caffeine overload or sugar rush required. For centuries, people have turned to plant-based remedies to fight fatigue, ease stress, and bring back that spark. And science is finally catching up, proving what ancient healers knew all along—certain herbs can work wonders for your mood and mental clarity. If you’re tired of dragging yourself through the day, these natural mood boosters might be exactly what you need.
1. Rhodiola rosea will kick your stress and exhaustion to the curb.
Dragging yourself through the day with zero energy? Rhodiola rosea might be exactly what you need. This adaptogenic herb has been a go-to remedy for centuries, helping the body handle stress while boosting endurance and mental clarity. It works by regulating cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress, which can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed.
Unlike caffeine, which can lead to crashes, Rhodiola provides a steady, natural energy boost. Many people notice improved focus, better stamina, and an overall sense of balance after adding it to their routine. Research led by Emilija Ivanova Stojcheva suggests it can help fight burnout and fatigue, making it a great option for anyone struggling with low motivation. Feeling stuck in a slump? This herb could be the key to shaking off exhaustion and getting back to your energized, productive self.
2. Ashwagandha will help you chill out and finally feel like yourself again.
Stress and anxiety have a way of creeping in and taking over, but Ashwagandha can help turn things around. Used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, this powerful herb works by lowering cortisol levels, promoting relaxation, and improving overall resilience to stress. According to the National Institutes of Health, it can reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and even support brain function.
But don’t mistake its calming effects for sedation. Ashwagandha doesn’t make you sluggish—it simply helps your body manage stress more efficiently, so you feel steady and in control. Many people report feeling more centered, focused, and emotionally balanced after taking it regularly. Long days, constant worries, and restless nights don’t have to be your normal. Adding this herb to your daily routine can help bring a sense of calm without dulling your energy or enthusiasm for life.
3. Holy basil will clear your mind and lift your mood fast.
Sometimes, stress doesn’t just weigh you down—it fogs up your mind and leaves you feeling scattered. Brian Krans of Healthline writes that holy basil, or Tulsi, has long been used to ease stress and sharpen mental clarity. This adaptogenic herb helps regulate cortisol and reduces inflammation, making it a powerhouse for both body and mind.
Many people turn to holy basil tea when they need a quick mental reset. The effects can be noticeable within minutes, helping to clear brain fog and ease anxious thoughts. Unlike stimulants, it doesn’t force your body into a false sense of energy but instead restores natural balance. A stressed-out mind doesn’t function at its best. Holy basil helps bring back focus, calmness, and a much-needed sense of clarity so you can tackle the day with ease.
4. Maca root will power up your energy and get you back in the game.
Low energy and mood swings don’t stand a chance against maca root. Native to the high altitudes of Peru, this powerful superfood is packed with nutrients that naturally boost energy, stamina, and even libido. Instead of providing a temporary jolt like caffeine, maca supports your adrenal glands, delivering long-lasting energy without the dreaded crash.
Many people add maca to smoothies or coffee, reporting that it gives them a steady, sustained boost throughout the day. It’s also known to help balance hormones, making it especially beneficial for those dealing with mood fluctuations or fatigue. Feeling sluggish can make even the simplest tasks feel impossible. Maca root provides a natural way to regain energy, shake off exhaustion, and get back to feeling like yourself again.
5. Lemon balm will calm your nerves and melt away tension.
Tension, restlessness, and anxiety can make it hard to relax, but lemon balm is here to help. This gentle yet powerful herb is known for its ability to soothe the nervous system and promote a sense of calm. It works by increasing GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps quiet overactive thoughts and ease stress.
Lemon balm tea is a popular choice for those looking to unwind without feeling groggy. It’s also been shown to improve sleep quality, making it a great nighttime remedy for anyone struggling with restlessness. Beyond its calming effects, it can also enhance focus, making it a great option for those who need to stay relaxed yet alert. A little daily stress is normal, but constant tension isn’t. Adding lemon balm to your routine can help bring back a sense of peace and balance.
6. Ginseng will snap you out of your brain fog and get you focused.
Mental fatigue can be just as frustrating as physical exhaustion. Ginseng is a well-known herbal remedy for sharpening focus, increasing energy, and improving overall cognitive function. Used in traditional medicine for centuries, it helps the body combat fatigue while enhancing mental clarity.
Unlike caffeine, which can lead to crashes, ginseng provides a smooth and steady energy boost. Research suggests it supports memory and concentration, making it an excellent choice for students, professionals, or anyone struggling with focus. It also helps regulate stress hormones, so energy levels stay stable throughout the day. A foggy brain can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Ginseng offers a natural way to boost concentration and stamina, helping you power through the day with a clear and focused mind.
7. Passionflower will quiet your racing thoughts so you can finally relax.
A restless mind can feel impossible to shut off, but passionflower makes it easier. This delicate flowering herb has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, ease anxiety, and improve sleep. It works by boosting GABA levels, which helps calm nervous energy and slow down racing thoughts.
Passionflower is especially useful for those who struggle with nighttime restlessness. Unlike some sleep aids, it doesn’t leave you feeling groggy the next day. Instead, it gently encourages a sense of peace and tranquility. Many people also take it during the day to manage stress without feeling sluggish. Constant overthinking can drain your energy and affect your mood. Passionflower offers a natural way to unwind, helping both the mind and body find the calm they desperately need.
8. St. John’s wort will brighten your mood when the days feel heavy.
Low moods and sluggish energy can make life feel like an uphill battle. St. John’s wort is a well-known herb for lifting spirits and supporting emotional balance. It works by increasing serotonin levels, the neurotransmitter responsible for happiness and well-being.
This herb has been used for centuries to help with mild to moderate depression and is still widely studied today. Many people find it helps ease feelings of sadness, irritability, and emotional fatigue. However, it can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to check with a healthcare provider before adding it to your routine. A rough patch now and then is normal, but feeling stuck in a low mood doesn’t have to be. St. John’s wort provides a natural way to brighten your outlook and bring back your inner light.
9. Schisandra berry will help you stay calm, clear, and energized all day.
Some herbs target stress, others boost energy, but Schisandra berry does both. This powerful adaptogen has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to improve focus, balance mood, and enhance stamina.
By supporting the adrenal glands, Schisandra helps the body manage stress more effectively while keeping energy levels steady. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which protect the brain and improve cognitive function. Many people report feeling more alert, yet calm and balanced, after taking it regularly. Modern life is full of stress and distractions. Schisandra provides a natural way to stay focused, energized, and emotionally steady—without the rollercoaster effects of caffeine or sugar.
10. Valerian root will help you unwind and actually get a good night’s sleep.
Falling asleep shouldn’t feel like a battle. Valerian root is one of the most popular herbal remedies for promoting deep, restful sleep. It works by increasing GABA levels, helping the brain transition into a relaxed state without the need for synthetic sleep aids.
Unlike over-the-counter sleep medications, valerian won’t leave you groggy the next morning. Instead, it gently eases tension and restlessness, making it easier to fall asleep naturally. Some people also use it for daytime stress relief, especially when feeling overstimulated or anxious. Tossing and turning at night doesn’t have to be your reality. Valerian root offers a safe, effective way to help your mind and body settle down so you can wake up feeling refreshed.
11. Saffron will lift your spirits and help you see the brighter side of life.
Sometimes, a low mood isn’t just about stress—it’s about feeling emotionally stuck. Saffron, the world’s most expensive spice, is also one of the most powerful natural mood boosters. Research shows that it can increase serotonin and dopamine levels, the brain’s feel-good chemicals, making it a natural way to support emotional well-being.
Unlike synthetic antidepressants, saffron works gently, helping to improve mood without harsh side effects. Studies have even compared its effects to prescription medications for mild to moderate depression. Many people report feeling lighter, more optimistic, and less emotionally weighed down after taking it consistently. When the world feels a little gray, saffron can help bring back the color. Whether taken as a supplement or infused into food, this golden spice is a simple, natural way to brighten your mood and mindset.