3 Powerhouse Herbs for Mitochondrial Health + How to Support Higher Energy Levels!

We commonly call mitochondria the powerhouse of the cell, and for good reason! Mitochondria are responsible for the bulk of ATP production, which is the primary energy currency of our cells. 

If you’re feeling worn out or mentally foggy, your mitochondria may need some extra support. Let’s go over how our mitochondria boost our overall health and how poor mitochondrial health can impact our lives before exploring ways you can support your mitochondria with healthy life choices and herbal remedies. 

How Do Mitochondria Support Our Health?

Harvard Health Publishing shares that mitochondria: 

• Are critical for cell health (such as regulating how nutrients enter our cells)
• Play a huge role in how we age and the age-related diseases we may develop
• Store DNA that can become damaged with age and is difficult to repair
• Support immune function
• Convert nutrients into energy for our bodies
• May lead to debilitating or life-threatening conditions if they become abnormal
  

Some of the diseases that may be caused or aggravated by mitochondrial dysfunction include early aging, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, Huntington’s disease, migraines, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, among others. 

The takeaway? Our mitochondrial health is hugely important to both a longer lifespan and a higher quality of life. 

Some of the factors that may increase mitochondrial damage include: 

• Aging
• Toxic metals
• Pollutants
• Some prescription drugs
• Alcohol
• Oxidants that leak during ATP production
• Genomic susceptibility
  

Now, if you’re reading the above list and feeling discouraged, don’t be. Even the healthiest people experience a few of these factors, and some (such as aging, pollutants, or our genomes), we have little control over. 

What we can do is support our mitochondrial health as much as possible with what is in our control, including what we eat, working to get the best sleep we can, and using herbal remedies to support our mitochondria. 

Herbs For Mitochondrial Health 

Generally speaking, the best herbs for mitochondrial health are adaptogens, which are known for improving energy, mental and physical performance, endurance, and supporting mitochondrial health. There are many amazing adaptogens available, but we’ll highlight a few of the best for combating fatigue, reducing stress, and enhancing ATP production (the energy production mitochondria specialize in). 

Learn even more about adaptogens in our previous guide on the three must-know adaptogens. 

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are among the most popular adaptogens, as they support a healthy immune system, promote greater energy levels, and enhance mitochondrial health. If you’re feeling foggy-headed or struggling with low stamina, adaptogenic mushrooms are an excellent choice for promoting vitality. 

If you’re new to using adaptogens, our Mega Mushrooms is a dynamic choice for supporting your overall health, mitochondria, and mental and physical performance. Our blend contains Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Maitake—some of the best studied and most beloved mushrooms on the market. 

Our Adapto-Gen Capsules are another energy-promoting capsule blend that encourages improved stamina. If you’re going through a rough patch and feeling burnt out, we love these to promote higher energy levels and support a better stress response (which directly impacts mitochondrial health). 

Vitamins 

In addition to supporting your health through a nutrient-rich diet, vitamin E and B vitamins consistently emerged as essential nutrients during our research for promoting greater energy levels and mitochondrial health. 

We recommend our Herbal Vitamins Capsules as a convenient way to promote greater well-being, increased energy, and enhanced mitochondrial health. We pack our capsules with powerful whole foods, including organic spirulina, chlorella, alfalfa, wheatgrass, and barley grass to help you get high amounts of these supportive nutrients that are easily digestible. Prefer a powder? Our Daily Dose Powder offers a similar whole food vitamin blend in an easy-to-mix format—perfect for smoothies, juices, or a quick shake on the go. An Active B Complex Supplement can also help boost your energy with active forms of B2, B6, B12, and folate, supporting a healthier system and improved energy levels. 

Ginseng

Ginseng is a popular adaptogen that we’re highlighting for its purported benefits to the mitochondria. Studies have shown that ginseng effectively stabilizes mitochondrial membranes and reduces the risk of mitochondrial rupture. 

Another study on ginseng found that it has preventive effects against oxidative stress, improves mitochondrial function, and impacts energy metabolism. The study concluded that ginseng had some of the most potent antioxidant effects and helped myocardial cells build a greater tolerance to oxidative damage (which can negatively affect mitochondrial function). 

We recommend the following ginseng remedies for supporting mitochondrial health: 

• American Ginseng Capsules: We highly recommend these capsules for anyone seeking to support their endurance, stamina, and oxidative stress responses. Many also share that it can help improve mental and physical performance, making it ideal for those struggling with fatigue or brain fog. 
• Clear Thinking Capsules: For individuals struggling with concentration, brain fog, or focus, our Clear Thinking Capsules offer a supportive solution. Some with attention deficit disorder (ADD) even find these helpful, between the stimulating ginseng and ginkgo. 
• Slim & Fit Capsules: If you’re looking for a morning or afternoon boost, this is the one! This powerful and spicy combination of Ginseng, Kelp & Cayenne that provides a naturally energizing boost that can help you get through the day when you’re feeling fatigued. 

Learn more about energy and endurance-boosting herbs in our previous article on the best herbs for your pre and post-workout.

Other Tips for Improving Mitochondrial Health

A few other research-backed tips for supporting your mitochondrial health and overall energy levels: 

• Limit toxin exposure as much as possible
• Support your overall health with a nutrient-rich diet
• Build muscle mass — studies show that ATP production and mitochondrial function increase with strength training!
• Take a multivitamin with at least two to three times the recommended daily intake for most nutrients (specifically B vitamins) 

 

We hope this guide to mitochondrial health provides you with some ideas for supporting these powerhouses, allowing you to feel sharper mentally and experience higher energy levels. 

Well Wishes,

Herbalist Natalie

Natalie Hajdu-Voakes is a consulting herbalist and the owner of The Herb Stop, with over 28 years of hands-on experience in crafting herbal remedies and promoting natural wellness.