A REVIEW ON HERBAL MEDICINES FOR SPORTS

Abstract

In recent decades, the use of herbal medicines and supplements has been growing. Some herbs are used at present to boost muscle strength and body mass. Emerging research indicates that plant medical benefits are due to their bioactive compounds that have many physiological effects on the human body, like polyphenols, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Manufacturers often unleash several items with excessive doses or fake supplements with banned ingredients inside, causing adverse side effects. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee up to date that herbal supplements are safe for anybody to use and it has not served to clear up the mystery about herbal use in the field of sport in particular. The aim of this review is, therefore, provide the assistance on the efficacy and side effects of most plants used in sport. We find that most effects of herbal supplements are likely due to central nervous system activation through catecholamine stimulation. As an endurance performance enhancing drug, ginseng was used, whereas supplementation with alkaloids led to results in vigorous running and cycling workouts. Limited doses of ephedrine have commonly been used in conjunction with caffeine to improve muscle strength in qualified people, but it is banned. Some other alkaloids have been used to enhance body mass and composition in athletes, like green tea extracts. Other herbs tend to alleviate discomfort in the muscles and joints, but there are no results on their effects on exercise efficiency.