The MethodTransformations
The Daily
The DailyHot TopicsRecipes
ShopAbout MollyContact
Hot Topics

The 4 Best Adaptogens for Managing Stress 

Molly Rose
Jan 4, 2021
THE DAILYRECIPES

We’ve all experienced the pressure and stress that comes with modern life (especially before, during, and after the holidays). A quick power nap and a cup of coffee are commonly used options that combat a busy schedule. While those are okay options here or there, if they are implemented every day, they can mess up our natural circadian rhythm and possibly cause more harm than good. Yikes. Before resorting to stimulants like excessive caffeine or energy drinks, what about incorporating some rejuvenating herbs into the mix?

Adrenal herbs, also known as adaptogens, come in many different forms, each with its unique function, but it can be hard to figure out which ones to choose and how much to take. Read on to find out more about apoptogenic herbs and how to use them effectively so that you can keep your adrenals calm, and your entire endocrine system working efficiently.

What are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are specific herbs and/or mushrooms that help the body cope better with emotional and physical stress. In today’s world, where stress and anxiety are often rampant due to the demands put in place from work and toxic environmental factors, utilizing these adaptogens can be a good option to ease your mind and body.

Russian toxicologist Nikolay Lazarev first introduced the term “adaptogen” into scientific literature in 1957. He referred to these substances as those “that increase the state of nonspecific resistance” in stress (1). These miracle substances work by modulating the release of certain stress hormones from the adrenal glands. These glands produce hormones that help regulate many systems, from metabolism to blood pressure and stress response. To put simply - because of their effects on adrenal glands, adaptogens can help the body adapt to different stressors (2).

3 Adaptogens to Consider Using

So how can we classify an herb as being an adaptogen? To be adaptogenic, a substance must bring strength and energy when consumed, be safe to use long-term, and act on different parts of the body simultaneously (3). Some commonly used adaptogenic herbs are detailed below:

1. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most commonly used adaptogens worldwide and is commonly used in ayurvedic medicine. Its potential benefits include supporting the endocrine and nervous systems and improving memory and feelings of calmness (4).

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is often considered a supporting adaptogen due to its wide-ranging benefits across the body. As it is high in flavonoids, turmeric is often identified as a potent antioxidant (5). Its potential benefits include improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and reducing feelings of depression. Remember, inflammation can increase stress in the body and ultimately tax the adrenals - so that is why this anti-inflammatory herb can support adrenal health so well.

3. Ginseng

Like ashwagandha, ginseng is a commonly used adaptogen, especially when present in tonics. Because of its potent effects, there are some limitations to the quantity of ginseng taken at a particular time. Ginseng’s potential benefits include supporting the immune system and increasing energy levels. As always, use with caution if taking SSRIs or any pharmaceuticals.

4. Tulsi (Holy Basil)

While Tulsi is less well-known in the Western world, Eastern medicine practices often utilize this form of basil in cooking. People there use the herb for various functions, including treatment of indigestion and stress relief due to its range of potential benefits. These include soothing digestion, increasing vitality, and calming minds (6).

How to Use Adrenal Herbs Correctly

So, now that you know a little bit more about the different types of adaptogens available, how can you go about using them correctly? When starting a new regime with added supplements, it is paramount to speak with your healthcare practitioner to make sure the herb is the right fit for you and discuss any health conditions you may have. Talking to a holistic or functional expert about correct dosage based on what needs you have will be very useful. Ultimately, taking it slow when incorporating adaptogens is vital for the first time, as each individual will react differently. Slow and steady always wins the race.

Which Adaptogen is Best for You?

It is essential to buy adaptogenic herbs from a supplier or company that is reputable. Using high-quality and trusted products may be more expensive, but it also means you are more likely to get a more potent adaptogen, while lessening the risk of an adverse reaction.

Adaptogens typically come in many forms, from capsules and tea bags to powders and tinctures. Choosing an option that is easy to implement in your everyday regime is the right way of ensuring you remember to take them. Powders are also a convenient way of getting sufficient amounts of adaptogens into your diet, as they can be added to almost everything, from smoothies to soups.

Ultimately, all adaptogenic herbs provide numerous health benefits and are popular for different reasons, so choose one that gives the affects you want. It can also be useful to try a few other adaptogen options before settling on one to see how your body reacts to them. If you have high yeast, fungus or histamines – we do not recommend using any of the mushrooms (cordyceps, reishi, lions mane).

When to Use Them

Many experts recommend that most adaptogenic herbs be taken earlier in the day since they are naturally stimulating and provide energy (7). Adaptogens like ginseng and ashwagandha should be taken before 3 pm to lessen the risk of sleeplessness later at night. On the other hand, less potent herbs, like turmeric and tulsi, can be taken during the day and close to bedtime.

All adaptogens can be used repetitively for several weeks, especially if you are going through an incredibly stressful period. Rotating the time and quantity of adaptogen used every few months can also help ensure your body benefits from the unique differences between all the different types of herbs.

The Bottom Line

While there can be many ways of dealing with stress, a natural and effective option is to use adaptogens for combatting the pressures of modern life. Adaptogens can come in many types, with the most common ones being ginseng, ashwagandha, turmeric, and tulsi, each with its own particular benefits.

Because everybody is different, trying a few different adaptogens can be a great option to see what one suits your needs the best. With many product types available on the market and the ability to use them for weeks on end, incorporating adaptogens into your diet is an excellent addition to your daily regime. Stress management is often one of the most overlooked keys to health, so if you are constantly feeling stressed, consider some of the tips in this article and as always – remember to breath.



‍

Tagged:
No items found.
About Author
Molly Rose

See All Posts
Featured Posts
Hot Topics
What is Hypothyroidism and How to Treat it Naturally
Hot Topics
The Liver’s Role in Hormonal Health
Nutrition
The Effects of Stress and Cortisol on Weight Gain
Stay in Touch

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive new posts straight to your inbox 👇

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
More Posts

You Might Also Like

Recipes
Crispy Tangy and Spicy Brussels Sprouts
If you like a tangy, spicy, and sweet sprout – this Brussels sprout recipe is perfect for you.
Dec 9, 2022
Molly Rose
Recipes
Recipe: Gut Happy Pancakes
Whether you are vegan, paleo, or dealing with gut infections like candida and parasites, we want you to feel like you can partake in fun festivities too!
Dec 22, 2021
Molly Rose
Recipes
Recipe: Chunky Chickpea Tomato Soup
It's official. We are in the midst of winter, and boosting the immune system is of utmost importance these days! In fact, it is common for immunity to drop a bit in the winter months which is why zooming in on natural immune supporters like hearty warm vegetables is a great place to start if you’re looking to give yourself a boost.
Dec 20, 2021
Molly Rose
Nutrition
Spiced Thanksgiving Morning Muffins
In my house, the holiday season is a time for spiced everything… Because – why not? I always look for ways to spice up (pun intended) as many meals as possible during the season – including breakfast!
Nov 22, 2021
Molly Rose
Nutrition
Corn and Mycotoxins: Why Is This Popular Grain So Toxic?
Corn is delicious, versatile, and a food staple for many households, but it can also be contaminated with mycotoxins. Read on to find out more about why this popular grain is so toxic, and why we don’t recommend it to our clients.
Jun 28, 2021
Molly Rose
Recipes
Recipe: Double Fudge Tahini Brownies
Behold the most delicious chocolatey goodness you will ever have! These ‘Double Fudge Tahini Brownies’ are quite possibly the best things to ever come out of my kitchen. I hope you love them as much as I do!
Jun 7, 2021
Molly Rose
Explore ALl Posts


CONNECT