We used to get our energy with the food we consumed and an occasional cup of coffee or tea. Along with that, just forty to fifty years ago our soils were not depleted. Our farmland's topsoil contained all the trace minerals needed by our cells to keep our body functioning properly. Now, with technology, companies are producing ?instant energy gratification? in the form of quick acting energy drinks and high powered espresso drinks.

There seems to be a Starbucks on every corner and multitudes of energy drink options in every convenience store. Many Americans are getting through their day by guzzling several energy drinks or iced lattes.

Want to be able to increase your activity? Or, have enough energy after a day of work to go work out? Do you want improved energy, have more focus and boost your immune system?

Here are several natural ingredients that will rebuild your energy levels allowing you to cut back on those energy drinks and coffee.

Cayenne

Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. Cayenne also boosts metabolism. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination.

Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a well-known herb to health-conscious consumers. It is high in nutrients, which are drawn into the plant from deep in the soil. The richest land source of trace minerals, the roots of Alfalfa plants have been known to reach as much as thirty feet deep! The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene. They are also a source of protein, vitamin E and vitamin K. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular, and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is renowned for its cleansing qualities.

Bee Pollen

Bee pollen is a rich source of many nutrients, including amino acids. Bee pollen contains easily assimilated protein and lecithin, which nourish the brain and nervous system. Bee Pollen nutritionally supports the body in many ways, including assisting with vitality and a feeling of well-being. It has been used by athletes to maintain energy and stamina.

Kelp/Spirulina

Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation. These energizing "super foods" are some of the most nutrient-rich substances produced by nature.

Ginseng, Schisandra and Licorice

Siberian Ginseng can be used in cases of stress, depression and low libido. Siberian Ginseng and Schisandra and Licorice, are herbs known as adaptogens. Adaptogens help us to cope with the changes in our environment both emotionally and physically; they support and ultimately promote overall health and by promoting our physical and mental strength; they help our body adjust to variances in diet and environmental factors. Licorice supports the adrenal glands and plays a crucial role in countless metabolic steps to convert fats, protein and carbohydrates into energy. It is included in every adrenal boosting product on the market and many times taken by itself to boost the adrenals.

Guarana

From seeds of an Amazon vine plant. Guarana is a tonic very similar to caffeine and boosts the adrenal glands and stimulates cerebral functions. It provides energy and alertness. It has a very similar chemical structure to that of caffeine, but releases its energy more slowly into our system making it a little better for your system than regular caffeine.

Maca

The South American country of Peru hosts a great variety of beneficial plants, including Maca, a legendary sex-enhancing root passed down from the Inca. It provides energy benefits to both men and women. It has been called "Peruvian ginseng," even though it bears no relation to ginseng. But like ginseng, the plant is employed to increase strength, energy, stamina, libido and sexual function.

Yohimbe

Yohimbe. The benefits of yohimbe are a subject of much controversy. Yohimbe is used to help build muscle, improve sexual function, reduce anxiety, elevate mood, and prevent heart attacks. Because it stimulates the central nervous system, it has been used to treat narcolepsy and for weight loss. It is a great metabolism booster. Yohimbe increases fatty acid mobilization, decreasing fat synthesis, which means it not only aids in weight loss, but actual fat reduction. Yohimbe is popular with bodybuilders. By stimulating the production of testosterone, it can help build muscle mass. Be careful with Yohimbe, as this herb will naturally get your heart racing fast.