5 of the Best Adaptogenic Herbs You Should Get More of In Your Diet
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Nicole Avena
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life?
If you’re searching for a natural way to cope with modern challenges, look no further than adaptogens.
What Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are widely considered to be any natural substance that helps the body “adapt” to a variety of difficulties. They’re a unique class of herbs that can help the body resist physical, chemical, and biological stressors. They’ve been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine.
Today, adaptogens are gaining popularity for their purported ability to improve health and well-being. This is likely due to our lives becoming increasingly stressful. We’re constantly being bombarded with stressors from work, family life, and the 24/7 news cycle.
Adaptogens work by helping to regulate the body’s stress response. This regulation can occur at the level of the adrenal glands, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, or the sympathetic nervous system. By regulating these stress response systems, adaptogens help to keep the body in a state of homeostasis (balance).
There are many different types of adaptogens, and each has its own distinct set of benefits. However, they all share one common goal: to help the body better cope with stress. Let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits of adaptogens.
Health Benefits of Adaptogens
Adaptogens are relatively new to the world of natural medicine, but they’ve gained recognition for their potential health benefits.
Early research suggests that adaptogens offer several potential health benefits, including:
- improved energy levels
- reduced levels of stress and anxiousness
- enhanced cognitive function
- improved immunity
If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your health and well-being, consider adding adaptogens to your daily wellness regimen.
Many foods and supplements contain adaptogenic herbs. Here are some of the most popular ones…
5 of the Best Adaptogenic Herbs You Should Get More of In Your Diet
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a well-known herb that’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s an adaptogen that supports the body’s healthy response to stress by promoting calm and overall mental focus.* In addition, ashwagandha has been associated with improved memory and attention.*
Cordyceps
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris), the orange caterpillar fungus, is among the most exotic mushrooms in the world. Cordyceps is widely revered in the East for its benefits to vitality and overall wellness. It helps fight fatigue, bolster immunity, counter stress, and support blood flow and oxygen utilization.*
Cordyceps is unique for having nucleosides, nutrients essential for our cells to make energy. Nucleosides also are essential building blocks for the DNA of our genes, and for RNA which has numerous vital functions including protein production.
Ginseng
Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a potent adaptogen and is the best-studied and fastest acting of all the ginsengs. Some standardized extracts contain naturally occurring ginsenosides, which play a role in improving focus, sharpening memory, and supporting overall well-being.* Ginseng promotes the release of nitric oxide, which opens blood vessels and supports blood flow to the brain and muscles.*
Holy Basil
Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum), also referred to as Tulsi, is an Eastern herb that’s been revered as “The Queen of Herbs” in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years.
An adaptogenic herb, holy basil enhances the body’s natural protective response to physical and emotional stress.* Adaptogenic herbs don’t alter mood, but they can help the body function optimally during times of stress.* Research demonstrates that they do this by modulating the production of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.*
Holy basil has been long revered as a powerful antioxidant with antibacterial, analgesic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.* Compelling research data suggests that holy basil’s greatest potential lies in the areas of stress relief and the promotion of relaxation.*
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola rosea is one of the best studied and most potent adaptogens. Rhodiola is fast-acting and has been shown to reduce fatigue, promote positive mood, and improve physical and mental performance.* Some standardized extracts provide stress-fighting rosavins and salidrosides as well as powerful antioxidants. It also helps increase the availability of energy during the day and promote restful sleep at night.*
Side Effects and Precautions
Though adaptogens are generally safe for most people, there are a few potential side effects and precautions to be aware of. When taking adaptogens, it’s important to start with lower doses and increase gradually, as needed. This will help your body adjust and avoid any negative reactions that may come with increasing your intake of adaptogens.
Those who overdo it, by consuming large amounts of foods or supplements with adaptogenic herbs or mushrooms, may encounter certain physical issues. Some common side effects include upset stomach, diarrhea, and headaches.
If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately reduce the dose or discontinue use of the food or supplement containing adaptogens. Adaptogens also may interact with certain medications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking them.
The Power of Adaptogens
Adaptogens are a class of natural compounds with incredible, potential health benefits. Their unique ability to reduce stress levels and combat fatigue makes them an attractive option for anyone looking to improve their energy, focus, and overall well-being. But, be sure to consult with your doctor before consuming foods or supplements with adaptogens.
Getting more adaptogenic herbs into your diet may be an important step in optimizing your health.
Give them a try today!
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
