WHAT ARE ADAPTOGENS? A SUMMARY
Adaptogens are some plants, fruits and mushrooms that contain selected bioactive substances that affect our cells’ ability to cope with the stress. They don’t provide an quick aid, but when consumed regularly, effects usually can be observed in a month physically or mentally.
The goal of taking adaptogens is to return your body back to a state of balance. But adaptogens can react differently from person to person, so research which ones could work best for your situation. Further, consult a naturopath or a knowledgeable health care professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or immunocompromised and considering taking adaptogenic herbs.
WHICH ADAPTOGEN SHOULD YOU USE?
Each adaptogen has a different effect on the body, so the choice of which one to take will depend on the result you seek.
HOW CAN YOU TAKE ADAPTOGENS?
-Adding adaptogens to smoothies, desserts, soups, shakes.
-Taking adaptogens as supplement capsules.
-Using tinctures: a liquid form of a plant extract, can be added to beverages or food.
Whichever route you go, always do your research the quality before buying so you know you’re ingesting a safe product. Learn about each brand, such as where they source their herbs, whether they are certified organic and if they use third-party testing. When researching companies, also be sure to check for any heavy metals in their products, which you definitely don’t want to ingest.
SOME OF POPULAR ADAPTOGENIC MUSHROOMS
Cordyceps – It helps with chronic fatigue and can work to improve the availability of oxygen in the blood and helps with overall endurance and recovery.
Tremella – It is used for skin hydration, radiance and elasticity as a plant based collagen, also for digestive health, antioxidant defences.
Lion’s Mane – Some compounds have a protective effect on the brain while supporting its natural cognitive functions are called nootropics. Lion’s mane contains a broad range of naturally occurring bioactive compounds, including erinacines and hericenones, known for their cognitive health benefits. Lion’s mane is also known as brain candy. It helps protect our memory and brain. Researches show us that compounds in Lion’s mane may stimulate the growth of new brain cells, improve depression and anxiety, and support gut, heart, and immune health.
Turkey Tail – It is one of the most well-researched of all adaptogenic mushrooms for its powerful polysaccharides. The beta glucans and other nutrients found in Turkey Tail support immune health.
Chaga – It is valued for its nutritious content and a source of several vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, used for digestion, candida, immunity, antioxidant defences, blood sugar regulation and energy, also offers nutrients to support hair, skin, and nail vitality.
Maitake – Rich in several essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, enhances immune function, promotes a healthy gut flora. Maitake’s nutrient value comes from amino acids, B vitamins, and minerals, including copper, zinc, and phosphorus also contains an impressive amount of alpha and betaglucans polysaccharides and triterpenes.
Reishi – The primary bioactive compounds in reishi are beta-glucan polysaccharides and ganoderic and ganoderenic acids (also known as triterpenes). Reishi also provides polyphenol antioxidants, prebiotic fiber, a precursor of vitamin D, peptides, enzymes, and more. It helps with allergies by modulating our immune system, encourages more stable, long-lasting focus and concentration, and helps to balance levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenalin.
If you are new to using adaptogens, it might take about three weeks of regular use to establish its benefits.
SOME OF POPULAR ADAPTOGENIC PLANTS
Ashwagandha – It is said to increase the body’s ability to adapt, to better cope with stress and contributes to calmness and makes it easier to fall asleep.
Maca – It boosts libido, increases fertility, boostes energy, and improves mood.
Mesquite – It helps to satisfy hunger, and stabilize blood sugar, also it’s loaded with vitamins and minerals such as iron, manganese, lysine (helps building blocks of protein) , zinc, and even potassium.
Licorice Root – It may reduce oxidative stress.
Rhodiola Rosea – It helps with physical and mental fatigue.
Schisandra Berry – It boosts endurance, mental performance, and one’s working capacity. One of the unique properties of schisandra is that, unlike other stimulants like caffeine, our bodies don’t become tolerant to it, so it can be used in the same doses effectively.
Tulsi (Holy Basil) – It is used for physical and mental stress, stress-related anxiety, and depression and improve memory and thinking
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) – may reduce depression
Roseroot – It is used to treat minor health ailments like headaches and flu.