Adaptogens are non-toxic plants that help the body reset stressors of all kinds, whether emotional, physical, chemical or biological. These herbs and roots have been used for centuries in Chinese and Ayurvedic healing traditions.
Adaptogens are a unique group of herbal ingredients used to improve the health of your adrenal system, the body system that is in charge of managing your body's hormonal response to stress. They help strengthen the body's response to stress and enhance its ability to cope with anxiety and fight fatigue - slowly and gently, without jolts or crashes. They are called adaptogens because of their unique ability to adapt their function according to your body's specific needs. The the effects may initially be subtle and take time to make themselves felt, they are real and undeniable.
Unlike drugs from the big pharma realm, adaptogens were not born yesterday. In fact, they have been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, to boost energy and resilience in the face of stress. Recently, several studies have found evidence to support what those of us in the sustainable wellness field already knew - that adaptogens offer positive benefits - and are safe for long-term use.
Think of adaptogens working like a thermostat. When the thermostat senses that the room temperature is too high, it brings it down; when the room temperature is too low, it brings it up. Adaptogens can calm you down and boost your energy at the same time without over stimulating. They can normalize body imbalances. By supporting adrenal function, they counteract the adverse effects of stress. They enable the body's cells to access more energy; help cells eliminate toxic by-products of the metabolic process and help the body to utilize oxygen more efficiently.
Ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine. It is used to help increase vitality, energy, endurance and stamina, promote longevity and strengthen the immune system. Today, herbalists often recommend it for people with high blood pressure, insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome. It enhances endocrine function, especially they thyroid and adrenals. Ayurvedic healers have long prescribed the herb to treat exhaustion brought on by physical and mental strain.
** A note of caution ** Avoid using ashwagandha during pregnancy, if you are taking sedatives, have gastric ulcers or are sensitive to the nightshade group of plants.
Asian Ginseng has been one of the most valued medicinal plants in the world. It is believed to affect the body by influencing metabolism within individual cells, and it has been studied extensively for its ability to help the body withstand stress. Research shows that Asian ginseng promotes a sense of well-being in its users. Western herbalists say that it restores and strengthens the body's immune response, promotes longevity, and enhances the growth of normal cells.
** A note of caution ** Consuming large amounts of caffeine with large amounts of ginseng may increase the risk of palpitations, insomnia, over-stimulation and digestive upset. If you have high blood pressure, monitor yourself when taking ginseng. This herb is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Holy basil (also referred to as tulsi) is another beloved plant in the Ayurvedic traditons. Its benefits are many and in relation to restoration of body and mind, it is helpful to know that tulsi is overall calming and fosters a sense of well-being and relaxation. It is wonderful for help unwinding after a long day and rough Mercury retrogrades.
Cacao is high in magnesium which is a calming nutrient that many of us do not get enough of at all. Yes, cacao contain some caffeine which can be stimulating, so while you may not want to eat chocolate right before attempting sleep; eating dark choloclate or adding raw cacao to a smoothie or oatmeal earlier in the day may help to improve your sleep in the long run. The bonus is that it tastes delicious, is packed with antioxidants, and can act on our neurotransmitters to help increase our mood.
Eleuthero is used in Chinese medicine for muscle spasms, joint pain, insomnia, and fatigue. In Germany, its use is approved for chronic fatigue syndrome, impaired concentration, and convalescing after illness. Western herbalists note that it improves memory, feeling of well-being and can lift mild depression.
** Note of caution ** In rare cases patients with cardiovascular disorders have experienced agitation and insomnia while taking large doses of eleuthero. If you have high blood pressure, monitor yourself closely while using this herb.
Reishi mushroom is a claming adaptogen that can help improve sleep overall. This happens to be one of the most studied plants is popular use and has and its list of beneficial uses is long. It is useful for helping you to chill out after a long day and can be a great aid for insomniacs who have chronic challenges with sleep.
Rhodiola rosea acts like a hormone thermostat, especially as it pertains to coritsol, one of our main stress hormones. I believe that cortisol, which is secreted in sync with our circadian rhythms is usually, if not always, out of whack when we are stressed out and exhausted. This means the cortisol level is either too high when it should be low, or not high enogh when we need more. Getting your cortisol back in rhythm when your are compromised is crusial and rhodiola literally helps balance the cortisol levels in your body, raising or lowering it as needed. That is why this herb is particularly useful for treating my stressed out clients! Rhodiols has demonstrated a remarkable ability to support cellular energy metabolism. It positively affects brain function, depression, and hear health. In my experience, most clients who take rhodial start feeling better within three to four weeks.
** Note of caution ** Avoid if you have manic depression or are bipolar! Rhodiola is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory super root that is wonderful for cooling any inflammation in the body. If pain and discomfort is part of your sleep challenges, I recommend incorporating turmeric ASAP. My favorite way to consume it is at night in warm coconut milk with a little ginger, black pepper (which helps your body absorb the curcumin), a pinch of cinnamon, raw honey and coconut oil; comforting, relaxing and delicious.
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