Amazon.com Review
Humans have sought ways to alter their minds and boost their moods throughout time and across cultures. If you've wondered if you could perk up or unwind with a natural, legal substance, this book is for you.
Natural Energy is a guide to natural stimulants, mood brighteners, brain boosters, relaxants, inebriants, and aphrodisiacs. Author Mark Mayell, former editor of
Natural Health magazine and an expert on holistic healing, examines the effects of various herbs, amino acids, essential oils, hormones, and nutritional supplements on mood and mind.
Natural Energy is not a quickie dictionary of herbs. Rather, Mayell chooses 17 substances and goes into depth about the history, use, effects (including why they work), supporting research, preparation, related substances, and safety precautions of each. All of the information is presented in a clear, straightforward style. Mayell discusses Saint Johnswort, valerian, green tea, ginseng, ephedra/mahuang, kola nut, ginkgo, California poppy, melatonin, kava, and yohimbe, as well as several amino acids, essential oils, and "smart drugs." You'll become better prepared to determine whether a particular substance might be beneficial for you. (Of course, this book is not a substitute for medial advice. Talk to your health practitioner about any herbs you are considering taking.) --Joan Price
Use of psychoactive substances has been widespread throughout human history. Such common products as caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine may be habit forming and result in long-term adverse effects. Mayell, a health writer and former editor of
Natural Health magazine, saw a need for a detailed, objective survey of natural, healthier mind alterants. He covers here more than 30 stimulants, brain boosters or smart drugs, relaxants, inebriants, and aphrodisiacs. In seamlessly written prose, Mayell weaves historical, botanical, and biochemical information with documented research and anecdote. The politics and economics of drugs are not slighted, but the author excels at nonjudgmental presentation, leaving the intelligent layperson to his or her own conclusions. Most of the substances discussed can be found in health food stores (e.g., ginseng, melatonin, essential oils); the rest can be ordered through the mail, sometimes from foreign sources. Adequate attention is paid to safety and guidelines for use and dosage of each substance. Back matter includes resources and relevant research by chapter; tips for ordering; and a bibliography.
Penny Spokes
