What Are Adaptogens?
- Jun 27, 2019
- Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN
Curious about adaptogens? I'm fascinated with them and often wonder why everybody doesn't know about these powerful, amazing herbs?! Here are some of my favorite adaptogens with an easy to understand overview.
What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are unique herbs used to support the body’s ability to cope with physical and psychological stressors. They support the health of your adrenal system, which is responsible for managing your body’s hormonal response to stress. Adaptogens can calm you down and boost your energy at the same time without overstimulating.
They work somewhat like a thermostat for the body. When the thermostat senses the room temperature is too high, it brings it down; when the temperature is too low, it brings it up.
ASHWAGANDHA
Ashwagandha is native to Africa, India, and the Mediterranean region, and is the most highly prized adaptogen used in India’s old tradition of Ayurvedic Medicine.
- Promotes a calming effect and relaxation
- Helps manage the stress hormone cortisol
- Supports and assists the immune system
- Protects brain cells and supports memory
- Enhances endocrine function, especially in the thyroid and adrenal glands
- Supports normal inflammation and is used for arthritic conditions
- Enhances liver function
- Keep cholesterol in check
- Supports normal blood pressure levels
- Helps maintain a normal inflammatory response
- Build stamina
- Support the immune system
TRY: SurThrival Immortality Quest Reishi Mushroom Extract
ASIAN GINSENG
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is an herb said to offer numerous health benefits.
- Helps the body’s ability to handle stress
- Enhances mental function
- Promotes a sense of well-being
- Supports healthy blood sugar levels
- Promotes cellular health
RHODIOLA
Rhodiola Rosea, a flowering herb native to cold, rocky regions of the planet like the Arctic, has a long history of use in herbal medicine for health issues, especially related to stress.
- Promotes a calming effect and relaxation
- Helps manage the stress hormone, cortisol
- Promotes a sense of relaxation and mental alertness without drowsiness
- Aids in cellular energy metabolism and brain function
SCHISANDRA BERRY — “FIVE FLAVORED FRUIT”
Schisandra, pronounced shiz’-an-dra, holds a top spot in traditional Chinese medicine because of its superior benefits. In fact, it has been used for over 2,000 years!
- Supports memory recall, focus and concentration
- Supports normal liver detoxification processes
- Helps maintain normal moisture content of the skin and overall skin health
- Enhances athletic performance via tolerance, stamina and endurance
- Supports normal recovery time after strenuous exercise
TRY: Surthrival Schizandra Berry Concentrate
As with all herbs, please consult with your healthcare provider to discuss any potential interactions or health conditions before taking adaptogenic herbs.
In Health and Happiness,
Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods
References:
Panossian A1, Wikman G. Evidence-based efficacy of adaptogens in fatigue, and molecular mechanisms related to their stress-protective activity. Curr Clin Pharmacol. 2009 Sep;4(3):198-219. Epub 2009 Sep 1.
Wadhwa R1, Konar A1, Kaul SC. Nootropic potential of Ashwagandha leaves: Beyond traditional root extracts. Neurochem Int. 2015 Sep 8.
Li J1, Wang J, Shao JQ, Du H, Wang YT, Peng L. Effect of Schisandra chinensis on interleukins, glucose metabolism, and pituitary-adrenal and gonadal axis in rats under strenuous swimming exercise. Chin J Integr Med. 2015 Jan;21(1):43-8.