Adaptogens - Gifts from Nature

Are you benefiting from these powerful herbs?

Adaptogens are truly wondrous herbs. Their power lies in their ability to adapt to your body's needs. For example, if your stress hormone cortisol level is high, an adaptogen will lower it. If it is too low, it will raise it.

These incredible herbs are used to improve the general adaptability of your body and to create homeostasis (balance within the various body systems). They are recognized for their ability to increase resistance to a variety of stressors - chemical, physical, and emotional.

Simply put - they help you to adapt better to change. A much needed attribute in our fast paced and constantly changing world.

Some of the most commonly used adaptogens for stress relief and adrenal fatigue are:

Rhodiola
Rhodiola rosea, also known as the Golden root or Roseroot, and dubbed as the "herb of invincibility", is powerful herb that Russian astronauts and Olympic athletes have been secretly using for its remarkable properties.

Rhodiola nourishes the nervous system, helps to replenish energy, ease depression, and balance the body. As an adaptogen, rhodiola helps to increase the body's resistance to various stressors.

Ashwagandha
Withania Somnifera, also called Indian Ginseng, or Winter Cherry, is an ancient Indian herb that has been used in healing for thousands of years.

This herb has a direct effect on the adrenal glands and has been found to have a normalizing effect on cortisol levels. For this reason, it has been used for support in adrenal fatigue.

Holy Basil
In India this herb is called Tulsi, and it is being regarded as holy because of its healing power. Actually, the name "tulsi" means "the incomparable one". Holy basil is used for many ailments, from mouth infections, headaches, heart problems, insect bites to stress relief.

When dealing with stress, this herb might help by supporting healthy cortisol levels and blood sugar metabolism. In Western countries, Holy basil is one of the less known adaptogens.

Licorice
Licorice root, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is known for its ability to increase energy, support the adrenal glands, improve wound healing, aid in reducing inflammation. Licorice is also known to have a mild estrogenic effect, balancing the female hormones and reducing PMS symptoms.

The main constituent of licorice is glycyrrhiza, a substance that gives licorice its sweet flavor. However, do not be fooled and eat licorice candy. The candy usually contains only licorice flavoring and loads of sugar which is detrimental for the adrenal glands.

Caution: Licorice has been shown in some instances to cause high blood pressure and water retention.

Siberian Ginseng
Siberian Ginseng root, Eleutherococus senticosus, while not really a ginseng, it has been named as such because of its properties that are similar to Panax ginseng.

Siberian ginseng is known to increase the body's resistance to stress and environmental pollutants, to calm nervousness, improve physical stamina and vitality. This root is also known to aid in sleep and in balancing the adrenal glands.

Panax Ginseng
Korean ginseng root, has been used in Asian countries in connection with a variety of conditions. The most common use is to enhance the body's resistance to stress and to increase the overall energy.

While Panax ginseng is a widely used adaptogen in Chinese medicine, Dr. James Wilson, and expert on adrenal fatigue, does not recommend this herb (or root) for women. He also cautions that men should only begin taking this herb in small doses and watch for possible side effects such as: increased aggression, irritability, or sexual excess.

Ginger
Ginger root, Zingiber officinale, this favorite spice is not only tasty but also belongs to the adaptogens class of herbs. It can help regulate cortisol levels, increase energy, and stimulate digestion. Ginger is also a favorite anti-nausea herb.

A great way to have ginger is to make a tea. Peel and grate ginger. Use approximately 1 teaspoon of grated ginger for each cup of water. Boil water and pour over the grated root. Let it steep for approximately 15 minutes. Strain and if you want to, you can add a little honey or stevia to sweeten.

Never use stimulant herbs when suffering from adrenal fatigue or when you are looking for stress relief. Herbs like Ephedra (used for weight loss) and strong black teas stimulate the adrenal glands and cause more exhaustion and problems in the long run.

Like with all supplements, be cautious and always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herbs for stress relief. A naturopath or a herbalist can advise you of various interactions of adaptogens with other herbs and prescription medicines.

Other ways to deal with stress are:

• Exercise
• Having fun
• Autogenic relaxation
• Aromatherapy stress relief
• Breathing relaxation techniques
• Visualization
• Meditation

Return from Adaptogens to Stress Relief Tools