I needed to boost my energy, and I had tried a product on the market that had too much sugar. When I looked at the ingredients, I couldn't pronounce the words, and I was dismayed by the lack of nutritional value and the high sugar content.
So, I began researching herbs and mushrooms that could fuel my body without relying on excessive sugar. Essentially, I wanted antioxidants, minerals, adaptogens, and nature's finest to provide my body with what it needed: energy.
If you're not familiar with adaptogens, adaptogenic foods will provide your body with what it needs. An adaptogenic superfood increases energy, endurance, and oxygen in the blood, helps your body manage stress, promotes emotional wellness, and is uplifting.
Also, I noticed that the excessive energy from the product I found on the market did not provide my mind with clarity; instead, I became so hyped that I could not focus, and it was too much energy for my heart to bear. So there I was with an abundance of caffeine, jitters, and anxiety because I was too hyped.
After that horrific experience, I decided to make my own energy drink, and I came up with Energize. Now, you're probably wondering why the ingredients are listed. And what are the ingredients? Let's start with the flavor Organic Raw Cacao.
Building the Blend
Raw Cacao
I started with organic, raw cacao for its deep, chocolatey flavor and because it’s a natural source of antioxidants, magnesium, and mood boosting phytonutrients. Ancient cultures called it “food of the gods”, and for good reason! Cacao supports memory, focus, immunity, and even heart health.
Maca
After deciding on the flavor, I knew I had to add maca, not only for its richness and how beautifully it complements raw cacao, but also for its unique benefits. Maca gives Energize its mocha like vibe.
This 3,000 year old Peruvian energy secret originates from the Andes, where maca root is treasured as both a food and a traditional remedy. Maca has been used for centuries to increase stamina, enhance libido, and support the body's ability to cope with physical stress. Research shows that this Andean superfood is rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Today, many people turn to maca as a natural energy booster. It’s especially popular for supporting athletic performance, adrenal health, and promoting overall vitality. As a potent adaptogenic superfood, maca increases energy, endurance, oxygen in the blood, and physical strength, all while helping your body adapt to daily stress.
Mesquite
I added mesquite powder because I love its subtle sweetness and thought it would provide additional minerals that both your body and mine need. Mesquite powder comes from the pods of the mesquite tree, which has been a nutritional food source for Native Americans for approximately 2,000 years.
The powder is produced by gathering ripened seed pods from the mesquite tree and grinding them into a flour like powder. The taste is reminiscent of sweet maple syrup, and it’s rich in calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, protein, iron, and zinc. Mesquite is also highly effective in controlling and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Pea Protein
To create a satisfying, creamy texture and a boost of plant-based protein, I added pea protein. It helps nourish your muscles and keeps you fuller for a longer.
Mushrooms: Cordyceps & Reishi
Mushrooms, I love them! It doesn’t matter the variety; I’ve always been a fan. However, over the past several years, adaptogenic superfood mushrooms have become my absolute favorites, and I couldn't leave them out of this recipe.
Cordyceps Mushroom
Cordyceps is a true powerhouse for the body and mind. It’s known for strengthening the immune system, reducing inflammation, and helping to fight fatigue. Research shows cordyceps can enhance athletic performance by significantly increasing oxygen uptake, aerobic capacity, and resistance to fatigue.
The benefits don’t stop there; cordyceps may also enhance brain function and cardiovascular health, support healthy blood pressure, and provide a concentrated source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. Notably, cordyceps even shows anti-tumor activity in various types of cancer.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi is perhaps the most well known of all medicinal mushrooms, often called the “mushroom of spiritual potency.” Reishi is rich in potent antiviral and antimicrobial compounds, helping to strengthen digestive health and promote excellent immunity.
It also supports memory and focus, delivers valuable phytonutrients, boosts immune response, and helps reduce inflammation. As a true adaptogen, reishi helps regulate the body’s response to stress and may ease anxiety, offering a sense of calm and balance.
Other Botanicals
Wild Catuaba
Wild Catuaba is native to Central and South America and is derived from the bark of the Catuaba tree. In the rainforest, it has long been used as a natural medicine to increase energy, reduce fatigue and stress, and stimulate memory. Traditionally, it’s also valued as an aphrodisiac and for supporting overall vitality.
Guarana
Guarana is a fruit native to the Amazon, rich in antioxidants and known for a wide range of benefits. In South America, it’s prized for relieving migraines and supporting brain health. In fact, I remember a woman who came into my store with a terrible migraine, and she was really suffering. I added guarana to her smoothie, and within minutes, her migraine disappeared. She was amazed! Many people don’t realize guarana is an excellent natural remedy for migraine headaches.
In the U.S., guarana is best known for its caffeine like properties, making it a popular energy booster. It’s also recognized as a natural antidepressant, helping to increase mental alertness, athletic endurance, and stamina. Additionally, guarana is sometimes used for weight management, to reduce water retention, and as a natural blood thinner.
Kola Nut
The kola nut, another primary source of energy, holds a special place in West African culture, where it has been used for centuries as a symbol of hospitality. Kola nuts are presented in ceremonies, social gatherings, and business meetings as a sign of respect and welcome. Medicinally, kola nut has been used to suppress appetite and provide sustained energy. It acts as an adaptogen to help the body cope with stress and is traditionally used to support the immune system during colds and flu.
Natural Sweeteners
I skipped the refined sugars and chose date sugar and stevia for their minerals, low glycemic impact, and gentle sweetness.
The Result
What I ended up with is a plant based energy powder that supports your body and mind, without the crash, jitters, or mystery ingredients. Every scoop fuels stamina, resilience, and focus, with ingredients you can recognize and benefits you can feel. Whether you’re looking for a natural energy booster, a clean energy drink alternative, or a superfood energy blend that truly supports your wellness, Energize is a healthy herbal energy shake, created for you.
I love Energize and I think you will, too!
Enjoy!
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