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What are adaptogens and are they effective?

You’ve had those days where you’re tired, crash out early and wake up the next day feeling no better than when you went to bed.

We live in a world that’s full of stress, whether it’s from work, family, or friends. Stress can have an impact on your mood, energy levels, and overall health.

While there are many ways to combat stress, many people turn to supplements known as adaptogens. But what are adaptogens and do they actually work?

What are adaptogens?

Adaptogens are natural substances from plants that help the body better cope with stress. They work by normalizing and regulating the body’s stress response, which can help to improve mood, energy levels, and immunity.

These active substances have been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. But they’re only starting to gain popularity as more studies are being done to confirm their effectiveness.

For a plant to be considered an adaptogen, it must have these three qualities:

• non-toxic and safe when taken in normal doses
• helps the body cope with stress
• maintains a steady state of balance

Stress technically means anything that causes your cortisol output to rise or remain elevated. This can include physical, biological, and chemical stressors.

What foods are considered adaptogens?

There are many different types of adaptogens, but some of the most popular adaptogenic herbs and plants are:

Ashwagandha: Also known as Indian ginseng, this adaptogen is one of the most important herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used as a tonic to help with stress, anxiety, and fatigue.

Licorice root: This sweet-tasting root has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Aside from being a sweetener, it’s thought to improve many gastrointestinal issues and calm stress.

Reishi mushroom: Native to Asia, this bitter mushroom has been widely used as a supplement to treat various chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, arthritis, insomnia, asthma, and cancer. To learn more about mushrooms, check out this blog.

Rhodiola rosea: This plant has been considered an adaptogen for its ability to protect the body from chemical, biological, and physical stressors. Research suggests that it may stimulate the nervous system, enhance body performance, and reduce fatigue.

Siberian ginseng: Although it is not technically ginseng, it is known to increase stamina and strengthen the immune system. It has been traditionally used as an athletic performance enhancer in Russia.

How do adaptogens work?

Most studies on adaptogens have shown positive results in improving the mental and physical performance of healthy individuals. However, its exact mechanism of action is not clear until now.

For now, let’s talk about stress. Stress is the body’s response to any demand. It helps us deal with deadlines, traffic jams, and money issues.

The stress response is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. It is a system of glands and hormones that regulates many of our body’s functions.

When we experience something stressful, our adrenal glands in the kidney release cortisol. This results in the “fight-or-flight” response, which is a survival mechanism that allows us to deal with dangerous situations.

Cortisol, also called the stress hormone, is an essential hormone that has many functions, including metabolism control, blood sugar regulation, and sleep cycle coordination.

Hence, it is beneficial in small amounts, but when cortisol levels get out of control because of chronic stress, it can have negative effects on the body. These effects include anxiety, depression, weight gain, muscle weakness, and fatigue.

Adaptogens are believed to help the body better cope with stress. In other words, it makes you more resistant to the negative effects of stress.

Studies confirm that adaptogens help to regulate the release of stress hormones in the body, such as cortisol and adrenaline. It may also control other substances that may be triggered by the stress response, such as nitric oxide, cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Can you take adaptogens every day?

Adaptogens can be taken every day because it is safe to use long-term. It is most effective when combined with good habits, such as quality sleep, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle.

Experts recommend taking adaptogens for at least three months to see if you’re getting the benefits. While some people might notice sudden changes, it may take a little longer for some to feel the effects.

Do adaptogens really work?

Adaptogens are plants, usually herbs, that help the body resist physical, chemical, and biological stressors. It is one of the most natural ways to reduce stress, improve energy levels, and promote better sleep.

If you often make your own smoothies or cook at home, you can add adaptogens in their raw (in the case of holy basil and mushroom) or powder forms to your favorite recipes. But some, if not most, of these herbs may give off a bitter taste that you may likely hate over time.

The easiest way to incorporate adaptogens into your diet is through supplements. With added black pepper for improved absorption, our Ayurvedic Antioxidant + Adaptogen Organic Ashwagandha capsule is a gentle yet powerful adaptogen supplement that acts as an anti-stress aid.

This all-natural supplement boosts your energy levels and stimulates your nervous system, allowing you to stay focused and feel more energized when you need it the most.

If you’re searching for a quick pick-me-up for your Zen living, buy yourself a bottle today to feel your best every single day!