What Are Adaptogens and What Do They Do
Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body better manage and respond to stress. When the body is in a state of imbalance or stress, adaptogens work to restore balance and promote feelings of physical and mental well-being.
Popular adaptogens include ginseng, ashwagandha, cordyceps, Rhodiola Rosea, eleuthero (Siberian ginseng), Schisandra berry, holy basil, and maca. Many of these herbs contain compounds that modulate hormonal balance and reduce the body’s cortisol levels. For example, ashwagandha helps to support the immune system by reducing inflammation and anxiety; holy basil may help improve mood by increasing serotonin levels in the brain; Rhodiola is known as an “adaptogenic tonic,” which can help improve focus while reducing fatigue; while garcinia mangostana stimulates activity in nerve cells associated with memory and focus.
Taken together, adaptogens can provide an array of health benefits, including improved sleep quality and increased energy levels. Adaptogens are also believed to have long-term systemic benefits when taken consistently over time such as improved cell health.
Ultimately they help to give your body the extra resources it needs to respond to whole-body stressors efficiently so you feel your best!
The Benefits of Adaptogens
Adaptogens have long been used in herbal medicine and traditional Eastern practices, but their popularity is rapidly growing today. These unique herbs are believed to provide a range of advantages, including enhanced energy, increased mental clarity, and improved immune system function.
The best part is that these plant-based ingredients can naturally support the body’s natural mechanisms with minimal to no side effects. Interestingly, adaptogens work differently depending on an individual’s unique needs – if one person experiences fatigue, adaptogens can give them more energy; if another feels overly stimulated, they may have a calming effect instead. For these reasons and more, incorporating these herbs into a health routine could bring a host of dietary and lifestyle benefits.
Their active compounds produce physiological changes in the body, leading to better physical performance, improved cognitive functioning, and overall well-being. From boosting immunity to enhancing heart health and managing stress hormones, adaptogens offer an array of practical benefits for people of all ages. Whether used as an ingredient in food or as part of an herbal supplement regimen, adaptogen-based products may help promote harmony throughout the body for lasting well-being.
As research continues to explore their vast potential, Adaptogens are increasingly recognized among nutritional experts as powerful yet gentle allies that can help our bodies remain healthy while we go through life’s many challenges.
How to Take Adaptogens
Either taken as an herbal tincture, supplement or drink, adaptogens should be taken regularly and consistently in order to fully benefit from their effects.
The best way to start taking adaptogens is to identify which ones may be best suited for your body’s specific needs. A naturopath or healthcare practitioner can be consulted for guidance on the proper dosage and timing of supplements.
Start with a small dose and gradually increase it over time if necessary; the goal is always moderation. Additionally, it is important to understand the contraindications associated with certain herbs so that you are able to make informed decisions about how they affect your health in relation to other medications you may be taking. Consuming adaptogens along with nutrient-rich foods will also aid in their effectiveness and absorption; they also tend to work better when combined together.
Adaptogen Drinks
Adaptogenic drinks are becoming increasingly popular as a way to get a concentrated dose of adaptogens without having to take them in pill form. Such drinks often combine adaptogens with other nutrients, herbs, and superfoods that work together to support the body’s natural balance while providing an enjoyable and convenient beverage option.
Whether taken as a shot, a latte, a smoothie, or a beverage, adaptogen drinks are designed to help the body better respond to daily stressors. Not only do they provide soothing and calming effects, but they also help to give your body the extra resources it needs to respond to whole-body stressors efficiently so you feel your best!
