Learn About Adaptogen Supplements Probably Never Heard Of

1. Adaptogen Supplements Probably Never Heard Of

2. Introduction In the modern-day world of health and wellness, “adaptogens” are beginning to gain quite a bit of attention. Adaptogenic herbs are being offered in everything from supplements and tonics, to coffee, hot chocolate, and juice bars. But what are adaptogens, where can they be found and perhaps most importantly, do they really work?

4. Adaptogens are components of herbal medicines that are said to help the body's resilience in dealing with physical and emotional stresses. Adaptogens are also said to have anti-aging properties. Adaptogens have been used for hundreds of years in Ayurvedic healing practices. But adaptogens are becoming more accessible for use in the Western world as well. Some adaptogenic herbs are too bitter to be enjoyed as food, so they are made into powdered supplements (and taken as a capsule), smoothies, teas, or herbal drinks or integrated into tinctures (herbal supplements dissolved in alcohol and ingested in a liquid form).

5. Adaptogens Aren't New Concept Ayurvedic medicine practitioners have administered adaptogens for generations throughout India. Traditional Chinese medicine also incorporates many common adaptogenic herbs from the list below. More recently, the Soviet Union pioneered modern scientific adaptogen research 60 years ago. (1) Soviet researchers were particularly fond of ginseng, schisandra, and rhodiola rosea. Toxicologist NV Lazarev coined the term “adaptogen” to describe an herbal supplement that increased “the state of non-specific resistance.”

6. Examples of Adaptogenic Herbs There are many different adaptogens, each said to have its own specific action. But keep in mind that there are still only limited clinical research studies supporting the safety and effectiveness of these natural supplements. When everything falls into place though, adaptogens can do some pretty amazing things! Here are the best adaptogen supplements for boosting energy levels and improving your stress response.

8. Ashwagandha Ashwagandha may be one of the most popular adaptogens today, but many people still don’t know it exists. Ashwagandha is one of the best herbal supplements for mental stress relief. If you’re feeling on-edge, anxious, or suffering from low energy levels, taking ashwagandha on a regular basis can help boost your energy, keep you feeling calm and mentally balanced, and reduce adrenal fatigue from cortisol overload.

9. Rhodiola Rosea For physical stamina and strength, reach for a rhodiola tincture. Extensive Soviet research found that rhodiola rosea was one of the best herbal supplements for improving physical energy levels. Not only that, but research also found that rhodiola protects the brain, liver, and heart. The herb also functions as an antioxidant, reducing free radical damage and oxidative stress. Finally, rhodiola improves immune function while acting as an anti-depressant and anti-anxiety.

10. Turmeric You may have heard that turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory but did you know that’s because it’s an adaptogenic supplement? Well, turmeric isn’t technically an adaptogen. However, its active substance curcumin has adaptogenic potential. Aside from calming inflammation, studies show that turmeric supplements may lower blood pressure and blood sugar. One study found that turmeric reduced stress levels when people were exposed to unexpected stressful situations.

11. Basil Basil isn’t just tasty—it’s also an adaptogenic superfood. You probably won’t find holy basil in your Thai takeaway or supermarket. Instead, look for this Ayurvedic stress relief herb in the supplement section. If you’re wondering, yes, presidential candidate and Senator Tulsi Gabbard is named after the Ayurvedic name for holy basil.

12. Reishi Mushroom Dubbed the “mushroom of immortality,” reishi is packed with polysaccharides, triterpenes, and other antioxidants to help your body defend itself against aging. Reishi is good for much more than a skincare additive. Studies show that consuming reishi can reduce blood sugar levels and improve kidney function. To top it off, plenty of research shows that reishi has intense anti-cancer potential, can support a healthy immune system, and functions as an anti-inflammatory.

13. Ginseng You’ve probably heard that ginseng is a good herbal supplement for energy but you may not have known it’s also one of the best adaptogen supplements. If you want true ginseng (which contains ginsenosides), you can choose from American ginseng and panax ginseng also known as Asian ginseng. Asian ginseng (panax ginseng) is an ideal replacement for caffeine because it can boost mental performance and energy levels without leaving you jittery.

14. Chaga Mushroom Medicinal mushrooms provide plenty of adaptogen choices! Like most mushrooms, chaga contain beta-glucans. Chaga mushroom’s phytonutrients and special enzymes also make it an excellent anti-inflammatory and ideal choice for balancing (rather than stimulating or suppressing) your immune system. Anyone with autoimmune conditions should talk to their healthcare practitioner about medicinal mushrooms since they have such a unique effect on the immune system.

15. Supplements Many adaptogens are available in a capsule form. When possible, it's best to select an herbal supplement that is organic, all-natural, and ethically wild-harvested. Any type of herbal supplement can interact with other supplements, over-the-counter medications, or prescription drugs. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before taking adaptogens.

16. Conclusion Adaptogenic herbs won’t work miracles. Physical activity, a healthy diet, and mental health practices like meditation are all the basis of a well-rounded lifestyle that helps your body defend itself from stress hormones. Adaptogens simply provide a powerful boost to fill in the gaps you can’t control. From balancing the immune system to protecting the central nervous system, adaptogen supplements are filled with powerful phytonutrients and antioxidants to make you as much of a superhero as you’ll ever be.