Energy & Metabolism

Conditions in this group

Best-supported options

Ranked by the strength of human research, strongest first. A grade describes the evidence, not how well something will work for you.

• Vitamin DA·Strong evidenceSupports bone strength, immune defense, mood, muscle function, and may reduce the risk of several chronic diseases.Safety: caution — read the full safety section before use
• AshwagandhaA·Strong evidenceBest known for lowering stress and anxiety, supporting testosterone and energy levels, improving sleep quality, and building physical endurance.Safety: caution — read the full safety section before use
• CurcuminA·Strong evidenceBest known for calming inflammation, easing joint pain, supporting brain health, and helping the body manage oxidative stress.Safety: caution — read the full safety section before use
• MagnesiumA·Strong evidenceMost people turn to magnesium for better sleep, less anxiety, fewer muscle cramps, and relief from migraines or PMS.Safety: caution — read the full safety section before use
• Saltwater RinseA·Strong evidenceSoothes sore throats, speeds up mouth wound healing, clears nasal congestion, and supports gum health.Safety: caution — read the full safety section before use
• BerberineA·Strong evidenceBest known for lowering blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity, and supporting healthy cholesterol and weight.Safety: caution — read the full safety section before use
• NAC (N-Acetyl cysteine)A·Strong evidenceBest known for supporting liver health, lung function, mental wellness, and detoxification.Safety: caution — read the full safety section before use
• ExerciseA·Strong evidenceUsed to improve heart health, mental health, weight management, blood sugar control, strength, and longevity.

Traditional use in this group

Used in a healing tradition for this group of conditions. These carry no evidence grade — they have not been shown to work in human trials, and are listed because people look for them, not as a recommendation.

• Acupuncture
• Turmeric
• Butterbur Root
• Ginseng extract
• Green tea extract (Camellia sinensis)
• Rhodiola rosea extract

Pressure points used for these conditions

Acupressure points traditionally used for the conditions in this group. Each point page sets out what the evidence for it does and does not show.

• ST36 (Zusanli)Located just below the knee, ST36 is frequently used to support digestive health, boost energy, and strengthen immunity.
• LI4 (Hegu) - Large Intestine 4Located on the back of the hand between the thumb and index finger, this point is part of the Large Intestine meridian, which is associated with releasing tension and balancing bodily functions.
• LI11 (Quchi) - Large Intestine 11It is located at the outer end of the elbow crease when the arm is bent.
• GB20 (Fengchi) - Gallbladder 20GB20, also known as "Fengchi" or “Wind Pool,” is an important acupressure and acupuncture point located at the base of the skull, in the hollows on either side of the neck.
• LV3 (Taichong)Located on the top of the foot, between the first and second toes, LV3 is known for its ability to regulate the flow of qi (energy) throughout the body.
• LU7 (Lieque) - Lung 7LU7, known as "Lieque" or “Broken Sequence,” is a key acupressure and acupuncture point on the Lung meridian, located on the forearm, about one and a half finger-widths above the wrist crease on the thumb side.

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