Adaptogens have been around for several millennia, and now they are making a resurgence as solutions for modern problems. They have been found to reduce stress and fatigue, as well as improve performance and focus. In today’s stressful, busy world, that sounds very promising, doesn’t it?
What are adaptogens and how do they work?
Adaptogens are plant substances that help our bodies balance external stressors. They help keep hormone levels ideal by lowering or increasing them according to the needs of the body. For instance, stress results in elevated cortisol levels, by taking adaptogens you can lower them to return to homeostasis. At the same time, these supplements can work the other way around as fatigue lowers cortisol levels, in which case they elevate it back up.
Types of adaptogens
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)
One of the most popular adaptogens is Rhodiola, with known effects of reducing fatigue and anxiety. Most useful for students during exam periods or people working nightshifts, as it improves concentration.
Ashwagandha (Indian ginseng)
The most health benefits can be found in
Ashwagandha, used in ancient Hindu health practices. This supplement has
positive effects on the endocrine, nervous, immune and cardiovascular systems by
regulating your metabolism and changing the way your brain responds to stress.
Ginseng (American or Asian ginseng)
Both types of ginseng are primarily known to relieve fatigue by improving performance and energy during stressful periods. Ginseng also has benefits for the immune system by reducing inflammation and for the nervous system combating stress.
Reishi mushrooms
This type of adaptogenic mushrooms have a positive effect on the immune system. In addition, studies show that coupled with other treatments they are beneficial to cancer
patients, increasing the level of certain white blood cells.
Tulsi (‘holy basil’)
Tulsi is popular for improving focus and relieving anxiety. Some scientists
confirmed its effects on stress levels and even depression.
Potential side effects of adaptogens
Even though adaptogens are praised for their several positive effects on the human body we have to be careful and consider the potential drawbacks as well.
These side effects are rare and not severe. It is possible that some may have allergic reactions to adaptogens. Furthermore, some reported abdominal pain, nausea or diarrhea.
Another consideration we have to make is how adaptogens interact with other medicines. Individuals taking medication for diabetes, insomnia or depression may experience smaller inconveniences. These include increased blood pressure or blood sugar levels and disrupted sleep patterns.
How to include adaptogens in your lifestyle
Knowing what adaptogens are, their amazing benefits and also considering potential side effects you might have gotten inspired to try them. If this is the case let’s see how you can incorporate them into your busy lifestyle.
You have to know that adaptogens are not a quick solution for anxiety or other symptoms, but rather supplements that help your body build resilience. They are meant to be taken regularly and for a few months at most as you might become resistant to their effects after an extended period. Basically, it’s a healthy habit you can add to your lifestyle.
One way to incorporate adaptogens is in their raw form or as powders. You can add these to your meals or drinks in the amount indicated on their packaging, pouring some in your morning smoothie or cooking it in your lunch. You can also find adaptogens in a tea form. Many people prefer this method as drinking a hot cup of tea has anxiety-, and stress-relieving effects on its own.
Finally, there is also the option of taking adaptogens as capsules or tinctures, which gives more of a medicinal feeling. However, this is the best way to know the exact amount you are taking.
Conclusion
Adaptogens are a natural type of medicine that has been used for ages and are therefore a healthy and safe option to include in your diet. The symptoms it relieves are very common in today’s busy and stressful world. I can recommend that you give it a try!
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