Adaptogens

are herbs, roots and other plant substances (like mushrooms) that help our bodies manage stress and restore balance after a stressful situation.

 

Growing research shows that adaptogens help the body regulate in many ways, including improving mood, balancing hormones, fighting fatigue and boosting the immune system. One study suggests that adaptogens may be useful alongside standard treatments for post-surgery recovery, congestive heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Adaptogen herbs have the ability to help moderate stress in the body, and help return the body to homeostasis, or a natural baseline. They help the body bring down cortisol levels, which helps reduce the experience of stress, which helps the systems normalize. These in turn allow the body to focus on other things – if it is not in "fight or flight" mode, the priorities can move on to other things (immunity, sleep, healing, libido, etc).

Although each adaptogenic herb may affect a slightly different part of the system (for example, some aid more with relaxation and sleep while others can help lower blood pressure or even fight infection) their abundance and diversity makes for an incredible array of options when choosing the right one(s) for your particular issues. They can also work synergistically with other adaptogen herbs to have even greater impact.

There are many herbs and mushrooms that qualify as adaptogens. 

Some common adaptogens and their uses include:

• Ashwagandha, shown to help reduce anxiety and depression
• Ginseng, which refers to either American or Asian ginseng, and is used to combat fatigue
• Reishi, a type of mushroom adaptogen used to boost the immune system and fight cancer studied for its effectiveness in treating cancerous tumors
• Rhodiola, to reduce fatigue, depression and pain
• Schisandra, for improved concentration, coordination and endurance
• Tulsi (“holy basil”), used to increase focus, decrease anxiety and boost the immune system
• Ginger  Often used to combat nausea and digestive issues, ginger also contains antioxidants and works to help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Ginger is one of the most common ingredients found in traditional chai blends.  
• Foti root
• Jiao gu lan 
• Astragalus
• Brahmi - bacopa muneri, also known as Water Hyssop, has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve brain function, reduce stress, and enhance memory. Its adaptogenic properties may help the body respond more effectively to stress, supporting mental clarity and focus