Reduce stress with the power of adaptogens

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an unwelcome constant. While occasional stress is a normal part of life, chronic stress can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. This is where adaptogens come into play.

Adaptogens are pharmacologically active compounds or plant extracts from different plant classes. They help the body adapt to stress, normalize metabolic functions, and improve mental and physical performance.

Practitioners of traditional medicine have relied on them for centuries. Today, adaptogens are used in both functional and holistic medicine.

Recently, adaptogens have gained renewed attention because they boost energy, enhance mental clarity, and improve well-being.

What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are herbs, roots, and other plant substances that help the body resist various stressors. They modulate the stress response, often targeting the adrenal glands and hormonal systems to restore homeostasis.

Unlike stimulants, which can cause energy crashes, the effects of adaptogens are steady and balanced. Adaptogens improve focus, energy, and resilience.

The word adaptogen means that the chemicals in the plants help the body adapt to various physical and mental stressors.

How do adaptogens work?

Adaptogens are believed to regulate the immune system through several pathways:

Supporting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis: This complex system regulates the body's stress response.
Modulating neurotransmitter levels: Adaptogens may influence neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, which play a crucial role in mood and stress regulation.
Strengthening the immune system: By enhancing immune function, adaptogens may help the body better cope with stress.

Here are a few well-known adaptogens and their potential uses:

Plant adaptogens

Ashwagandha: This root extract is the most popular adaptogen. It's been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Studies suggest it lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and improves sleep quality.
Rhodiola Rosea: This herb, found in cold climates, is known for its energizing and mood-boosting effects. It may help combat fatigue, improve mental focus, and enhance cognitive function.
Holy Basil (Tulsi): This sacred herb in Ayurveda is revered for its stress-relieving properties. It may help calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and support respiratory health.
Astragalus: This herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to strengthen the immune system. It also helps reduce fatigue and improve overall well-being.

Adaptogenic Mushrooms

Reishi. Sometimes called the mushroom of immortality, reishi is prized for its calming and immune-boosting effects and ability to reduce stress and improve sleep.
Lion's Mane. This shaggy mushroom may improve brain health by promoting nerve growth factor, which helps repair and regenerate neurons.
Chaga is an excellent choice for immune support and overall health. Chaga helps fight oxidative stress and inflammation thanks to its high antioxidant content.
Cordyceps. Athletes turn to cordyceps for its ability to boost energy and endurance and improve oxygen utilization. It's an excellent choice for enhancing physical performance and recovery.

Mushrooms can be consumed as teas, powders, or capsules, making them easy to add to your daily routine.

CBD as an Adaptogen

Cannabidiol (CBD), derived from the hemp plant, is another powerful adaptogen. Albeit not an adaptogen in the traditional sense, the compound exhibits many adaptogenic properties, particularly the ability to reduce stress.

How CBD Works

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that help maintain homeostasis. By modulating this network, CBD can:

Reduce stress. The calming effects of CBD make it a popular choice for reducing stress.
Enhance sleep. Many people use CBD to improve sleep, mainly when difficulty sleeping has been caused by stress.
Relieve pain. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may reduce pain and discomfort.

Forms of CBD

Isolate. The purest form of CBD extract can be taken sublingually or mixed into food or drinks.
Tinctures. Taken sublingually, tinctures are fast-acting and versatile.
Capsules supply a convenient, premeasured dose.
Topicals. Creams and balms infused with CBD can be applied directly to areas of pain or tension.
Edibles. CBD gummies and CBD-infused beverages are delicious and easy to use.

When choosing CBD products, look for those that are third-party-tested for quality and potency. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum options provide additional cannabinoids and terpenes that may enhance effectiveness.

How to Use Adaptogens Effectively

To get the most out of adaptogens like mushrooms and CBD:

Start small. Begin with a small dose and gradually increase it as needed. This allows you to gauge how your body responds.
Choose high-quality products. Look for reputable brands that use organic and sustainably sourced ingredients.
Be patient. Adaptogens often work gradually, so give them a few weeks to build up in your system.
Live a healthy lifestyle. Adaptogens work best when you eat a nutritious diet, exercise regularly, and maintain good sleeping habits.

The Benefits of Adaptogens

Adaptogens offer a natural way to help you cope with stress and improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

They help you feel more balanced, focused, and resilient in the face of life's challenges.

I used Astragalus to help with my gut after taking antibiotics last year. I've also used CBD oil for joint pain. My kids have used Rhodiola before and during exams and reported feeling less stressed.

Do you have any experience with adaptogens, and would you share your experience in the comments?