Adaptogens are getting a lot of attention lately and they are often recommended as a supplement, but many people are still not clear as to what adaptogens actually are.
Adaptogens are herbs and natural substances that can help you to adapt, especially to stress. These (typically) plant based molecules work on the neuro-hormonal system to help improve it’s ability to handle and respond to mental, physical and environmental changes, by supporting balance and promoting a healthy regulation of cortisol within the body.
Life has become increasingly fast paced and hectic for most people and we are constantly faced with a barrage of stressors that cause our body to get completely out of whack. Adrenal fatigue and anxiety attacks are becoming more and more common, demonstrating just how stressed out people are. Adaptogens can help to balance out the stress that your body may be experiencing by calming and nourishing your adrenal glands, enhance your body’s ability to cope with fatigue and anxiety, promote healthy regulation of cortisol, strengthen the body’s response to stress as well as help to stabilize hormonal balance, blood sugar and blood pressure. Please note that adaptogens are not a quick fix – they are a herbal supplemental therapy to help to support you especially during stressful periods in your life.
Some of the most popular adaptogens on the market today are:
Ashwagandha is known as a calming adaptogen which makes it ideal for people suffering from nervous tension, anxiety or insomnia. It is commonly recommended for hypothyroidism as it stimulates the thyroid and has been shown to help relieve muscle spasms and in treating fibromyalgia
Licorice Root has historically been known to boost the immune system, increase energy and endurance and protect the thymus from cortisol damage. As licorice root can affect blood pressure it is important to only use it while under professional supervision.
Holy Basil is also commonly known as Tulsi. This herb is popular throughout India as the “elixir of anti-aging”, studies on holy basil has shown that it helps to boost the immune system, regulate blood sugar, hormone levels and blood pressure along with helping the body to fight fatigue and stress.
Rhidola Rosea is popular for it’s broad range of effects which include enhancing fertility, balancing blood sugar and restoring immune function.
Asian Ginseng is a natural stimulant that helps to temper an overactive stress response and increase alertness. It is also well known to help boost the immune system, combat free radicals within the body and lower blood sugar.
Adaptogens are a great way to help your body deal with stress but as with all supplements it is best to speak with a medical professional to ensure that they won’t negatively interact with any other medications and supplements that you may be taking. This post is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified medical professional.
I hope that you have a happy and healthy day! XXS
Stylishly Zen 