Effect-Based Guide
Botanicals described as stimulating may increase alertness, perceived energy, wakefulness, or physical drive through very different mechanisms. This comparison separates effect labels from evidence strength and highlights safety signals that matter when stimulants are combined.
Combining multiple stimulants can amplify insomnia, anxiety, blood-pressure changes, or heart-rate effects even when each ingredient is sold as natural.
53 of 53 botanicals shown
Relationship graph
Mechanisms are shown as mechanistic context, not as proof of a clinical outcome. Outcome nodes use explicit effect data when available.
Aloe vera
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
ImmuneMetabolicskin-supportInflammation · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Immune Signaling Modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · inflammatory bowel disease · Kidney
Anemarrhena asphodeloides
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
InflammationMetabolicneuroprotectiveStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Neuroprotective Activity
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Angelica keiskei
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
antioxidantMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Bleeding · limited clinical interaction data.
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
ImmuneadaptogenStimulating / energyCalmingMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Hormonal Signaling Context
Safety signals
Transplant/immunosuppression without clinician guidance · autoimmune flare risk · Pregnancy / breastfeeding
Astragalus membranaceus
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
ImmuneadaptogenStimulating / energyCalmingMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Hormonal Signaling Context
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · hormone-sensitive conditions without clinician review
Lagerstroemia speciosa
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support
Safety signals
Antidiabetics · Hypoglycemia risk
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
InflammationDigestiveMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · neonates/infants · Liver
Berberis vulgaris
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
DigestiveImmuneMetabolic · pathwayInflammation · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Momordica charantia
Human evidence
1 mapped studies
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support
Safety signals
Antidiabetics · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · GI upset
Nigella sativa
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
antioxidantCardiovascularMetabolicInflammation · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy · hypoglycemia-prone patients without monitoring.
Nymphaea caerulea
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Sedating / sleepCalmingStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Stress Response Modulation · dopaminergic · HPA-axis modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Sedation · Seizure
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
InflammationantioxidantCognition / focusMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Bleeding · diabetes medication monitoring if large intake changes · Food-level use is usually low risk
Theobroma cacao
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Flavonoids
Effects
Stimulating / energyMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Vascular Function Support · Endothelial Function Support · Endothelial Function
Safety signals
Caffeine sensitivity · Caloric load · Stimulation
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Hormonal / reproductivenervous_systemStimulating / energyCalmingMechanisms · not outcomes
Stress Response Modulation · Mitochondrial Function · HPA-axis modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Sedation
Cistanche deserticola
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Stimulating / energyreproductivetonicMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Neuroprotective Activity · Nrf2 Activation · Nrf2
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · diarrhea-prone conditions · Limited clinical interaction data
Citrus bergamia
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
CardiovascularMetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Coffea arabica
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Phenolics, Methylxanthines
Effects
Stimulating / energyCardiovascularMechanisms · not outcomes
Vascular Function Support · Mitochondrial Function · Vascular function support
Safety signals
Cardiovascular disease · Stimulation · Cardiovascular
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Methylxanthines
Effects
antioxidantMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Cardiovascular · Stimulation · Pregnancy / breastfeeding
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
InflammationMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Support · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Coptis chinensis
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
ImmuneDigestiveMetabolic · pathwayInflammation · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Ophiocordyceps sinensis
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Stimulating / energyImmuneadaptogenicMechanisms · not outcomes
Mitochondrial Support · Immune Signaling Modulation · Stress Response Modulation
Safety signals
Immunosuppressants · Generally safe · mild GI symptoms
Turnera diffusa
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Hormonal / reproductiveMoodnervous_systemCalmingMechanisms · not outcomes
Stress Response Modulation · dopaminergic · HPA-axis modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Seizure · planned surgery or complex psychiatric medication regimens.
Eleutherococcus senticosus
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
adaptogenImmuneStimulating / energyCalmingMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Stress Response Modulation
Safety signals
Cardiovascular · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · acute fever caution in some traditions
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
reproductiveStimulating / energyMechanisms · not outcomes
Vascular Function Support · Endothelial Function Support · Mitochondrial Function
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · hormone-sensitive conditions without review · Cardiovascular
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
reproductiveStimulating / energyMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support · Endothelial Function Support
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Cardiovascular · hormone-sensitive conditions without clinician review.
Hydrastis canadensis
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
InflammationMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Support · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · infants/newborns · complex medication regimens without clinician review
Camellia sinensis
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Methylxanthines, Flavonoids
Effects
antioxidantMetabolicCardiovascularStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support
Safety signals
Stimulation · Liver · Toxicity concern
Paullinia cupana
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Methylxanthines, Flavonoids
Effects
InflammationantioxidantStimulating / energyMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · adenosinergic
Safety signals
Cardiovascular · Stimulation · and unsupervised pediatric use.
Gymnema sylvestre
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Phenolics, Flavonoids
Effects
CalmingMetabolicNeurobiologyInflammationMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · diabetes (monitor glucose) · antidiabetic drugs
Berberis aristata
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
Digestiveliver-protectiveMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support
Safety signals
Drug metabolism · metformin (additive) · Pregnancy / breastfeeding
Reynoutria japonica
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Flavonoids
Effects
antioxidantInflammation · pathwayMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Bleeding · and surgery.
Lobelia inflata
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
respiratoryStimulating / energyMechanisms · not outcomes
Neurotransmitter Modulation · Neurotransmitter Signaling · Neurotransmitter modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Sedation
Lepidium meyenii
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Stimulating / energyHormonal / reproductivereproductiveMechanisms · not outcomes
Hormonal Signaling Context · Stress Response Modulation · endocrine
Safety signals
hormone-sensitive conditions (unclear relevance) · none well established · Generally well tolerated
Mangifera indica
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
antioxidantMetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Moringa oleifera
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
antioxidantMetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · especially non-leaf parts · hypoglycemia-prone users should monitor.
Morus alba
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support
Safety signals
Hypoglycemia risk · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · May potentiate antidiabetic drugs and other alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
Morus alba
Human evidence
1 mapped studies
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support
Safety signals
Hypoglycemia risk · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · May potentiate antidiabetic drugs and other alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
Nelumbo nucifera
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Sedating / sleepInflammationantioxidantCalmingMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · Stress Response Modulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Nigella sativa
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
MetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · hypoglycemia-prone patients without monitoring · known allergy.
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Flavonoids
Effects
DigestiveantioxidantrespiratoryMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Oxidative Stress Modulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation
Safety signals
Citrus allergy · internal essential-oil use without supervision · Lower interaction burden than grapefruit
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
InflammationMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Support · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Phellodendron amurense
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Alkaloids
Effects
ImmuneInflammationMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Pueraria lobata
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
Hormonal / reproductiveMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Metabolic Regulation · Hormonal Signaling Context · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · hormone-sensitive conditions without clinician review
Rehmannia glutinosa
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
adrenal_supportblood_tonicInflammationresearch-pendingMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Liver
Ganoderma lucidum
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
InflammationStimulating / energyImmune · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Function
Safety signals
Bleeding · immunosuppressants · Dizziness
Rhodiola rosea
Human evidence
3 mapped studies
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
adaptogenCalmingStimulating / energyMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Neurotransmitter Modulation · Stress Response Modulation · AMPK Signaling
Safety signals
Stimulation · bipolar/mania vulnerability · Serotonergic
Oryza sativa
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Phenolics
Effects
InflammationantioxidantCardiovascularMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Aspalathus linearis
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Not mapped
Effects
antioxidantMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Oxidative Stress Modulation · AMPK Signaling · Nrf2 Activation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines
Salvia rosmarinus
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Terpenes / terpenoids
Effects
InflammationantioxidantDigestiveMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Neuroprotective Activity
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Bleeding
Salvia officinalis
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Terpenes / terpenoids
Effects
Cognition / focusImmuneInflammationCalmingMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Stress Response Modulation
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Seizure · high-dose essential oil use
Hypericum perforatum
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Flavonoids
Effects
MoodnervineCalmingStimulating / energy · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Neurotransmitter Modulation · Stress Response Modulation · serotonergic
Safety signals
Pregnancy / breastfeeding · bipolar disorder · Drug metabolism
Ilex paraguariensis
Human evidence
Not counted
Chemistry
Flavonoids, Methylxanthines
Effects
InflammationantioxidantStimulating / energyMetabolic · pathwayMechanisms · not outcomes
Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation
Safety signals
Cardiovascular · Stimulation · Pregnancy / breastfeeding
| Botanical | Constituent chemistry | Mechanisms · not outcomes | Outcome / effect profile | Noticeability | Safety signals | Timing | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aloe Vera Aloe vera | acemannan, Emodin, Rhein Aloe Vera contains_compound acemannan · Aloe Vera contains_compound Emodin | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · AMPK Signaling | ImmuneMetabolicskin-supportInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · inflammatory bowel disease · Kidney · oral latex use in children | Not established |
| Anemarrhena Asphodeloides Anemarrhena asphodeloides | Mangiferin aglycone, Timosaponin AIII Anemarrhena Asphodeloides contains_compound Mangiferin aglycone · Anemarrhena Asphodeloides contains_compound Timosaponin AIII | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Neuroprotective Activity · AMPK Signaling | InflammationMetabolicneuroprotectiveStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · use clinician review for high-dose extracts or chronic use. | Not established |
| Ashitaba Angelica keiskei | Not yet mapped | Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK · Oxidative Stress | antioxidantMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Bleeding · limited clinical interaction data. · May influence glucose or metabolic markers | Not established |
| Astragalus | astragaloside iv, calycosin, Formononetin Astragalus contains_compound astragaloside iv · Astragalus contains_compound calycosin | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Hormonal Signaling Context · Stress Response Modulation | ImmuneadaptogenStimulating / energyCalmingInflammation · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Transplant/immunosuppression without clinician guidance · autoimmune flare risk · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · May counter immunosuppressants | Not established |
| Astragalus Membranaceus Astragalus membranaceus | Astragalin, Astragaloside IV, Calycosin, Formononetin Astragalus Membranaceus contains_compound Astragalin · Astragalus Membranaceus contains_compound Astragaloside IV | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Hormonal Signaling Context · Stress Response Modulation | ImmuneadaptogenStimulating / energyCalmingInflammation · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · hormone-sensitive conditions without clinician review · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines | Not established |
| Banaba Lagerstroemia speciosa | corosolic acid, Lagerstroemin Banaba contains_compound corosolic acid · Banaba contains_compound Lagerstroemin | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support · AMPK | MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Antidiabetics · Hypoglycemia risk | Not established |
| Berberis | berbamine, berberine Alkaloids Berberis contains_compound berbamine · Berberis contains_compound berberine | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | InflammationDigestiveMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · neonates/infants · Liver · complex medication regimens | Not established |
| Berberis Vulgaris Berberis vulgaris | Berberine, Columbamine Alkaloids Berberis Vulgaris contains_compound Berberine · Berberis Vulgaris contains_compound Columbamine | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation · AMPK | DigestiveImmuneMetabolic · pathwayInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Bitter Melon Momordica charantia | Charantin, Momordicoside K Bitter Melon contains_compound Charantin · Bitter Melon contains_compound Momordicoside K | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support · AMPK | MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | 1 | Antidiabetics · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · GI upset · hypoglycemia | Not established |
| Black Seed Nigella sativa | Thymoquinone Black Seed contains_compound Thymoquinone | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support | antioxidantCardiovascularMetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Strong | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy · hypoglycemia-prone patients without monitoring. · Antidiabetics | Not established |
| Blue Lotus Nymphaea caerulea | puerarin Blue Lotus contains_compound puerarin | Stress Response Modulation · dopaminergic · HPA-axis modulation · Dopamine modulation | Sedating / sleepCalmingStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Sedation · Seizure · active psychiatric instability without clinician review. | Not established |
| Blueberry | Pterostilbene Blueberry contains_compound Pterostilbene | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support | InflammationantioxidantCognition / focusMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Bleeding · diabetes medication monitoring if large intake changes · Food-level use is usually low risk · concentrated extracts may affect glucose or platelet-related endpoints in sensitive users | Not established |
| Cacao Theobroma cacao | Catechin, Epicatechin Flavonoids Cacao contains_compound Catechin · Cacao contains_compound Epicatechin | Vascular Function Support · Endothelial Function Support · Endothelial Function · Lipid Metabolism | Stimulating / energyMetabolic · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Caffeine sensitivity · Caloric load · Stimulation | Not established |
| Catuba | Not yet mapped | Stress Response Modulation · Mitochondrial Function · HPA-axis modulation · Mitochondrial biogenesis | Hormonal / reproductivenervous_systemStimulating / energyCalming | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Sedation · use clinician review for high-dose extracts or chronic use. | Not established |
| Cistanche Deserticola Cistanche deserticola | Echinacoside Cistanche Deserticola contains_compound Echinacoside | Neuroprotective Activity · Nrf2 Activation · Nrf2 · Mitochondrial Function | Stimulating / energyreproductivetonicMetabolic · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · diarrhea-prone conditions · Limited clinical interaction data · caution with laxatives and glucose-lowering therapies. | Not established |
| Citrus Bergamia Citrus bergamia | Bergapten Citrus Bergamia contains_compound Bergapten | Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | CardiovascularMetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · antihypertensives/diuretics | Not established |
| Coffee Coffea arabica | Caffeic acid, Caffeine, chlorogenic acid, trigonelline Phenolics, Methylxanthines Coffee contains_compound Caffeic acid · Coffee contains_compound Caffeine | Vascular Function Support · Mitochondrial Function · Vascular function support · Mitochondrial biogenesis | Stimulating / energyCardiovascular | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Cardiovascular disease · Stimulation · Cardiovascular | Not established |
| Coffee Cherry | cafestol, Caffeine, kahweol Methylxanthines Coffee Cherry contains_compound cafestol · Coffee Cherry contains_compound Caffeine | Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Nrf2 Activation | antioxidantMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Cardiovascular · Stimulation · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Additive effects with caffeine | Not established |
| Coptis | berberine, coptisine, palmatine Alkaloids Coptis contains_compound berberine · Coptis contains_compound coptisine | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Support · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling | InflammationMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Coptis Chinensis Coptis chinensis | Columbamine, Magnoflorine, Palmatine Alkaloids Coptis Chinensis contains_compound Columbamine · Coptis Chinensis contains_compound Magnoflorine | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation · AMPK | ImmuneDigestiveMetabolic · pathwayInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Cordyceps Ophiocordyceps sinensis | cordycepin Cordyceps contains_compound cordycepin | Mitochondrial Support · Immune Signaling Modulation · Stress Response Modulation · Mitochondrial Function | Stimulating / energyImmuneadaptogenic | Unknown | Moderate | — | Immunosuppressants · Generally safe · mild GI symptoms | Not established |
| Damiana Turnera diffusa | Not yet mapped | Stress Response Modulation · dopaminergic · HPA-axis modulation · Dopamine modulation | Hormonal / reproductiveMoodnervous_systemCalmingStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Seizure · planned surgery or complex psychiatric medication regimens. · Sedation | Not established |
| Eleuthero Eleutherococcus senticosus | chlorogenic acid, eleutheroside B, eleutheroside E Eleuthero CONTAINS / ASSOCIATED CONSTITUENT chlorogenic acid · Eleuthero contains_compound eleutheroside B | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Stress Response Modulation · AMPK Signaling | adaptogenImmuneStimulating / energyCalmingInflammation · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Cardiovascular · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · acute fever caution in some traditions · Stimulation | Not established |
| Epimedium | Icariin Epimedium contains_compound Icariin | Vascular Function Support · Endothelial Function Support · Mitochondrial Function · Endothelial Function | reproductiveStimulating / energy | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · hormone-sensitive conditions without review · Cardiovascular · May interact with antihypertensives | Not established |
| Epimedium Brevicornum | Icariin, magnoflorine Epimedium Brevicornum contains_compound Icariin · Epimedium Brevicornum CONTAINS / ASSOCIATED CONSTITUENT magnoflorine | Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support · Endothelial Function Support · Mitochondrial Function | reproductiveStimulating / energy | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Cardiovascular · hormone-sensitive conditions without clinician review. · Potential additive effects with PDE-5 inhibitors | Not established |
| Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis | berberine, Jatrorrhizine, Palmatine Alkaloids Goldenseal contains_compound berberine · Goldenseal contains_compound Jatrorrhizine | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Support · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | InflammationMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · infants/newborns · complex medication regimens without clinician review · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Green Tea Camellia sinensis | Caffeine, catechin, Epicatechin, epicatechin gallate Methylxanthines, Flavonoids, Phenolics Green Tea contains_compound Caffeine · Green Tea contains_compound catechin | Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support · Endothelial Function Support | antioxidantMetabolicCardiovascularStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Strong | — | Stimulation · Liver · Toxicity concern | Not established |
| Guarana Paullinia cupana | Caffeine, catechin, epicatechin Methylxanthines, Flavonoids Guarana contains_compound Caffeine · Guarana CONTAINS / ASSOCIATED CONSTITUENT catechin | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · adenosinergic · cardiovascular | InflammationantioxidantStimulating / energy | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Cardiovascular · Stimulation · and unsupervised pediatric use. · Additive effects with caffeine | Not established |
| Gudmar Gymnema sylvestre | gurmarin Gudmar CONTAINS / ASSOCIATED CONSTITUENT gurmarin | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support · AMPK | MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · use clinician review for high-dose extracts or chronic use. | Not established |
| Holy Basil / Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) Ocimum tenuiflorum | Eugenol, luteolin, methyl eugenol, Rosmarinic acid Phenolics, Flavonoids Holy Basil / Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) contains_compound Eugenol · Holy Basil / Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) CONTAINS / ASSOCIATED CONSTITUENT luteolin | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Neurotransmitter Modulation | CalmingMetabolicNeurobiologyInflammationcortisol_modulation | Unknown | Moderate | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · diabetes (monitor glucose) · antidiabetic drugs · Bleeding | Not established |
| Indian Barberry Berberis aristata | berberine Alkaloids Indian Barberry contains_compound berberine | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support · AMPK | Digestiveliver-protectiveMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Drug metabolism · metformin (additive) · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · GI upset (constipation | Not established |
| Japanese Knotweed Reynoutria japonica | catechin, Emodin, Resveratrol Flavonoids Japanese Knotweed CONTAINS / ASSOCIATED CONSTITUENT catechin · Japanese Knotweed contains_compound Emodin | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling | antioxidantInflammation · pathwayMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Bleeding · and surgery. · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Lobelia Inflata Lobelia inflata | Not yet mapped | Neurotransmitter Modulation · Neurotransmitter Signaling · Neurotransmitter modulation · Physiological effect | respiratoryStimulating / energy | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Sedation · Seizure | Not established |
| Maca (Lepidium meyenii) Lepidium meyenii | macamides Maca (Lepidium meyenii) contains_compound macamides | Hormonal Signaling Context · Stress Response Modulation · endocrine · Hormonal signaling context | Stimulating / energyHormonal / reproductivereproductive | Unknown | Moderate | — | hormone-sensitive conditions (unclear relevance) · none well established · Generally well tolerated · GI upset possible | Not established |
| Mangifera Indica Mangifera indica | Mangiferin Mangifera Indica contains_compound Mangiferin | Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | antioxidantMetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · immunosuppressants | Not established |
| Moringa Moringa oleifera | glucomoringin Moringa contains_compound glucomoringin | Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | antioxidantMetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · especially non-leaf parts · hypoglycemia-prone users should monitor. · Potential additive effects with antidiabetic and antihypertensive therapies | Not established |
| Morus Alba Morus alba | Morin, Mulberroside A, Oxyresveratrol Morus Alba contains_compound Morin · Morus Alba contains_compound Mulberroside A | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support · Lipid Metabolism Support | MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Hypoglycemia risk · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · May potentiate antidiabetic drugs and other alpha-glucosidase inhibitors · monitor glucose. | Not established |
| Mulberry Leaf Morus alba | Not yet mapped | Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support · Lipid Metabolism Support | MetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | 1 | Hypoglycemia risk · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · May potentiate antidiabetic drugs and other alpha-glucosidase inhibitors · monitor glucose. | Not established |
| Nelumbo Nucifera Nelumbo nucifera | Magnoflorine Nelumbo Nucifera contains_compound Magnoflorine | Metabolic Regulation · Stress Response Modulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | Sedating / sleepInflammationantioxidantCalmingMetabolic · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · immunosuppressants | Not established |
| Nigella Sativa Nigella sativa | Thymoquinone Nigella Sativa contains_compound Thymoquinone | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | MetabolicInflammation · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Strong | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · hypoglycemia-prone patients without monitoring · known allergy. · Antidiabetics | Not established |
| Orange Peel | Hesperidin, Naringenin, Naringin Flavonoids Orange Peel contains_compound Hesperidin · Orange Peel contains_compound Naringenin | Oxidative Stress Modulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation · AMPK | DigestiveantioxidantrespiratoryMetabolic · pathwayInflammation · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Citrus allergy · internal essential-oil use without supervision · Lower interaction burden than grapefruit · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Phellodendron | berberine, palmatine Alkaloids Phellodendron contains_compound berberine · Phellodendron contains_compound palmatine | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Support · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling | InflammationMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Phellodendron Amurense Phellodendron amurense | Berberine, Jatrorrhizine, Palmatine Alkaloids Phellodendron Amurense contains_compound Berberine · Phellodendron Amurense contains_compound Jatrorrhizine | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · NF-kB Modulation | ImmuneInflammationMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · Drug metabolism | Not established |
| Pueraria Lobata Pueraria lobata | Daidzin, Ononin, Puerarin Pueraria Lobata contains_compound Daidzin · Pueraria Lobata contains_compound Ononin | Metabolic Regulation · Hormonal Signaling Context · AMPK Signaling · Glucose Metabolism Support | Hormonal / reproductiveMetabolicStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · hormone-sensitive conditions without clinician review · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines | Not established |
| Rehmannia Glutinosa Rehmannia glutinosa | Catalpol Rehmannia Glutinosa contains_compound Catalpol | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · AMPK Signaling · AMPK | adrenal_supportblood_tonicInflammationresearch-pendingMetabolic · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Liver · Kidney | Not established |
| Reishi Ganoderma lucidum | beta-glucans Reishi contains_compound beta-glucans | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Immune Signaling Modulation · Mitochondrial Function · Anti-inflammatory | InflammationStimulating / energyImmune · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Bleeding · immunosuppressants · Dizziness · dry mouth | Not established |
| Rhodiola Rhodiola rosea | Rosarin, Rosavin, Rosin, Salidroside Rhodiola contains_compound Rosarin · Rhodiola contains_compound Rosavin | Neurotransmitter Modulation · Stress Response Modulation · AMPK Signaling · AMPK | adaptogenCalmingStimulating / energyMetabolic · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | 3 | Stimulation · bipolar/mania vulnerability · Serotonergic · cardiovascular conditions | Not established |
| Rice Bran Oryza sativa | Ferulic acid Phenolics Rice Bran contains_compound Ferulic acid | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support | InflammationantioxidantCardiovascularMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · use clinician review for high-dose extracts or chronic use. | Not established |
| Rooibos Aspalathus linearis | aspalathin Rooibos contains_compound aspalathin | Oxidative Stress Modulation · AMPK Signaling · Nrf2 Activation · AMPK | antioxidantMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Potential interaction concern with antidiabetic medicines · use clinician review for high-dose extracts or chronic use. | Not established |
| Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus | Carnosic acid, carnosol, Oleanolic acid, thymol Terpenes / terpenoids Rosemary contains_compound Carnosic acid · Rosemary contains_compound carnosol | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Neuroprotective Activity · AMPK Signaling | InflammationantioxidantDigestiveMetabolic · pathwayStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · known allergy to the plant/family · Bleeding · Generally well tolerated | Not established |
| Sage Salvia officinalis | Carnosic acid, carvacrol, Oleanolic acid, thujone Terpenes / terpenoids Sage contains_compound Carnosic acid · Sage contains_compound carvacrol | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Stress Response Modulation · Neuroprotective Activity | Cognition / focusImmuneInflammationCalmingMetabolic · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · Seizure · high-dose essential oil use · Sedation | Not established |
| St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) Hypericum perforatum | Hyperforin, Hypericin, Kaempferol, Quercetin Flavonoids St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) contains_compound Hyperforin · St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) contains_compound Hypericin | Neurotransmitter Modulation · Stress Response Modulation · serotonergic · dopaminergic | MoodnervineCalmingStimulating / energy · pathway | Unknown | Unclassified | — | Pregnancy / breastfeeding · bipolar disorder · Drug metabolism · reduces effectiveness of many medications | Not established |
| Yerba Mate Ilex paraguariensis | Apigenin, Caffeine Flavonoids, Methylxanthines Yerba Mate contains_compound Apigenin · Yerba Mate contains_compound Caffeine | Inflammatory Signaling Modulation · Oxidative Stress Modulation · Metabolic Regulation · Vascular Function Support | InflammationantioxidantStimulating / energyMetabolic · pathway | Unknown | Preliminary | — | Cardiovascular · Stimulation · Pregnancy / breastfeeding · caffeine | Not established |
Active Chemistry Guide
Compare botanicals containing alkaloid-class constituents by effects, evidence, noticeability, timing, and safety signals.
Effect-Based Guide
Compare calming and relaxation-associated botanicals by evidence, noticeability, active chemistry, timing, and sedation risks.
Perception & Dream Guide
Compare botanicals associated with dreams, lucid dreaming, perception changes, or psychoactive effects by evidence and safety.
Medication Safety Guide
Compare botanicals flagged for serotonergic or MAOI-related interaction concerns, including evidence, effects, and additional safety signals.
Educational use only
These comparisons summarize normalized reference data. They do not verify a commercial product, establish a dose, diagnose a condition, or determine whether a botanical is safe for an individual.