7 Adaptogenic Herbs or Adaptogens that Help Reduce Stress
If you are feeling the stress of the holidays, you are not alone. Many people feel stressed during this time of year. However, stress does not have to be negative. Stressful situations can also be seen as opportunities for growth and change.
If you want to reduce your stress levels and improve your overall health and response to stressors, it is time to add adaptogenic herbs to your diet. These herbs have a stress-reducing effect on the body because they support metabolic processes like increased detoxification, improved immunity, and enhanced energy production.
What is an Adaptogen?
An adaptogen is a plant extract that helps the body maintain metabolic balance in the face of stress, anxiety, or inflammation. A healthy body can respond to stress and regenerate itself when needed. However, this ability decreases as we age, which may lead to health problems.
Some of the most common health issues caused by stress are high blood pressure, poor sleep, and poor digestion. A daily intake of adaptogenic herbs can help promote optimal health in the face of constant stress. There are many different adaptogenic herbs.
The most commonly used adaptogenic herbs are cordyceps mushroom, ashwagandha, and holy basil. Adaptogenic herbs are generally safe to take daily. However, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before taking any new supplements.
Cordyceps Mushroom
Cordyceps mushroom is an excellent supplement for your immune system. It is known to promote energy, endurance, and stamina. It also helps reduce the risk of diabetes and helps with regulating cholesterol levels.
Cordyceps mushroom is rich in B vitamins, iron, and zinc. It also contains a variety of antioxidants that promote good health.
Cordyceps mushroom is a tonic herb and can be taken daily as a supplement to promote better health. Cordyceps mushroom is the most well-known adaptogenic herb. It has been used in Chinese herbal medicine for centuries.
While it was traditionally used as a tonic for the lungs, it is now used for various other health issues, such as fatigue, stress, and inflammation.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is another adaptogenic herb used in Indian herbal medicine to promote well-being and relaxation. Ashwagandha is also known to help with thyroid disorders, insomnia, anxiety, and stress.
Like other adaptogenic herbs, ashwagandha also increases immunity and improves metabolic processes. Ashwagandha is rich in many vitamins and minerals.
It contains significant amounts of vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, Niacin, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc, Selenium, and Manganese. Ashwagandha also contains a large amount of iron, essential for regulating and maintaining healthy blood.
Holy Basil
Holy basil is an adaptogenic herb that is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known to have a calming effect on the body and promote restful sleep. Holy basil is also helpful for stress and anxiety.
Studies have shown that this herb has anti-inflammatory properties. Holy basil is a rich source of minerals, vitamins, and essential amino acids.
It is an excellent source of beta-carotene, iron, and calcium. It also contains high levels of vitamins C and E. Like other adaptogenic herbs, holy basil is also tall in antioxidants.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is another adaptogenic herb commonly used in Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal medicine. It promotes a healthy immune system and helps with stomach issues like ulcers, spasms, and ulcerative colitis.
Licorice root is an excellent source of minerals and vitamins. Magnesium, Zinc, Potassium, Manganese, and vitamins C, E, and B are all abundant. Licorice root is also a rich source of antioxidants.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola is another adaptogenic herb known to promote better mental and physical health. This herb has been used to help with stress, fatigue, insomnia, and depression.
Rhodiola is also known to boost a healthier metabolism by increasing energy production and helping the body process and break down foods more efficiently. Rhodiola is a good source of minerals and vitamins.
It is a rich source of Vitamin B and Potassium. It is also a good source of Magnesium, Zinc, and Selenium. Like other adaptogenic herbs, Rhodiola is also rich in antioxidants.
Schisandra Berry
Schisandra is one of the most commonly used adaptogenic herbs in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It is an excellent source of Vitamin C and a good source of Vitamin B. Additionally, it is an excellent source of potassium, iron, and selenium.
Conclusion
The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones, but they can also cause stress. If you are feeling holiday stress, it is time to add adaptogenic herbs to your diet. These herbs have a stress-reducing effect on the body because they support metabolic processes like increased detoxification, improved immunity, and enhanced energy production.