What Are Adaptogens and How Do They Work? (I Reveal All!)

Adaptogens are herbs, or supplements, that you can take to help with a range of wellness issues by balancing your hormones, and notably boosting your natural energy levels.

These herbs contain natural compounds that work with your body and will help you feel a lot better. They help you deal with stress, think sharper, feel physically better, and are commonly used by professional athletes which is testament to how effective they are.

One of the key hormones affected by adaptogens is cortisol. Cortisol is released when we’re under stress, and if we’re too stressed for prolonged periods of time our adrenal glands can’t keep up – resulting in the tired and fatigued state you probably know all too well.

Adaptogens provide a natural remedy where traditional medicines can often fall short. Check out some of these adaptogen herbs and their wellness properties, most of which have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.

Best Adaptogen Herbs to Help Balance Hormones and Boost Healing

Rhodlola

Rhodlola is a potent adaptogen that has been scientifically proven to reduce the effects of fatigue and physical exhaustion. It can help to restore normal sleeping and eating patterns after stressful events, and helps to protect against various toxic chemicals.

You can improve your cognitive function, helping you to be more alert and coherent while under pressure. It stimulates the release of serotonin, and there is evidence to suggest it can aid physical performance.

Ginseng

Ginseng is probably the best-known adaptogen and it’s one of the most potent. Ginseng can lower your blood pressure, sugar levels, and strengthen your mental performance. This means you’re naturally more resistant to stress and thinking clearly under pressure.

Ginseng is traditionally taken to help boost natural energy levels, for its anti-inflammatory properties, to improve lung function, aid weight loss, and there are studies showing this medicinal plant can reduce the chance of cancer.

Holy Basil

Holy Basil is a herb that has been using Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds, if not thousands of years. It’s rejuvenating, helps to improve memory, reduce the symptoms of coughs, colds, and indigestion, and helps reduce fatigue.

Studies have shown Holy Basil to reduce excess immune response to allergic reactions while promoting normal immune function. It’s particularly effective at improving concentration and relieving depression.

Licorice Root

Licorice root has a wide range of wellness and health benefits. Studies show it can be used to help lessen stomach pains, help relieve indigestion, and is a natural solution for nausea. All positive gut applications, and a happy gut is instrumental to the rest of our bodies.

This adaptogen also helps our bodies regulate cortisol production. Cortisol is an important hormone to give our adrenal glands a break and get us back to feeling our best if we’re under stress.

Licorice root is also has antiviral properties, you can use it to lessen the effects of colds and coughs, and strengthen your immune system.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is another herb with a long history of use in the practice of Ayurvedic medicine. It’s known to improve thyroid function, help with adrenal fatigue, reduce stress and anxiety, increase endurance, and more.

It’s commonly used to treat autoimmune conditions affecting muscles, and it’s anti-inflammatory properties can help with aches and pains or chronic conditions like fibromyalgia.

Cordycep Mushrooms

Cordycep mushrooms are funguses that contain strong antioxidant properties. Cordyceps are known as ‘Medical Mushrooms’, and are commonly used for their anti-aging and energy boosting properties.

Studies show they help fight free radicals, inflammation, infections, and help give you both a physical and mental natural energy boost. Cordyceps also help improve liver function, fight off respiratory infections, and are used by athletes to maximize their performance.

Jiaogulan

Jiaogulan is a premium adaptogen, it has similar all around effects as ginseng but with a little more potentancy. It’s known as the ‘Herb of Immortality’ in China, and has been used for thousands of years for its powerful anti-aging and energy inducing properties.

Studies have shown this herb to reduce cholesterol, improve a person’s digestive system, improve endurance, and sharper brain function. A true and powerful adaptogen and often used by professional athletes to gain a performance edge.

Final Thoughts

While these adaptogen herbs can make a huge difference to how you feel it’s only one part of the solution.

Being under constant stress puts our bodies into ‘fight or flight’ mode, and this takes its toll on our bodies, and our adrenal glands.

Try making some positive lifestyle changes to complement these herbs for a complete program that will leave you feeling better and living a more healthy life.

Diet, rest, and exercise are the other keys to a healthy mind and body. Eat well, sleep well, reduce the factors causing you stress, use adaptogens to balance your mind and body, nad be happy!