These days, stress is a constant presence in our lives. The coronavirus pandemic has worsened things, with 47% of the American population reporting a significant rise in stress since the pandemic. One ancient remedy that’s getting a lot of attention is adaptogens, which are thought to help reduce stress-related symptoms in the body.
Herbs and food as medicine are highly valued in natural medicine. An example is adaptogenic herbs, also known as “adaptogens.” These can have a positive effect on your stress response.
What Are Adaptogens?
An adaptogen is an herb, root, or other plant component, such as mushrooms, that helps our bodies cope with stress and return to balance after a stressful experience. People take adaptogens in herbal supplements, infusions in teas, or a powder added to soups, smoothies, and other foods.Â
What makes the plant an adaptogen?
- It’s not toxic when taken in regular doses
- It helps your body handle stress
- It helps your body get back to its natural state
Adaptogens are great for short-term stress but are not the answer to chronic stress.
How do they work?
The concept behind stress is called general adaptation syndrome, which breaks it down into three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.Â
When we are exposed to a stressor, for example, when we begin lifting weights, our body releases hormones such as adrenaline that enhance muscle performance and our ability to focus and focus on the task in phase resistance. In this way, our body is fighting the stressor, and we feel more energized and clear because our body is giving us an energy boost to fight it. As we get tired, we enter phase exhaustion. This is where adaptogens stretch out that “sweet spot” in the middle—the phase of resistance—so we can stay in the muscular part longer.
Popular Adaptogens and Their Benefits
Many herbs qualify as adaptogens. However, the knowledge of most of these substances still needs to be improved. Recent research suggests they can help our bodies in various ways, such as enhancing mood, regulating hormones, combating tiredness, and strengthening the immune system. According to one study, adaptogens might be beneficial alongside regular treatments for recovery after surgery, managing congestive heart failure, or dealing with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Here are some popular adaptogens and what they’re used for:
- Ashwagandha: It can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
- Ginseng (American or Asian): It’s used to combat fatigue.
- Reishi mushroom: This mushroom is known for boosting the immune system and has been studied for its potential in cancer treatment.
- Rhodiola: It’s known to decrease fatigue, depression, and pain.
- Schisandra: It can improve concentration, coordination, and endurance.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): Can increase focus, reduce anxiety, and enhance the immune system.
When Should I Be Cautious About Taking Adaptogens?
Due to the wide range of adaptogens, it can take time to figure out which herbs, plants, or supplements fit you. You’ll need to know a lot about each plant and how it might affect you based on your medical history. So, talking to your doctor before trying any adaptogens is best. Some of them can interfere with your prescriptions, and they can cause different side effects if you take them in higher amounts. Plus, some of these substances can negatively impact your hormones, so don’t use them if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
It’s important to remember that adaptogens aren’t cure-all. They may help relieve some of your stress but won’t completely eliminate it. If you’re buying something with adaptogens in it, make sure you read the label to make sure it’s packed with the right vitamins and minerals.
Give us a call or schedule an appointment with DOC-AID Urgent Care to assess your body’s level of cortisol, help manage your stress levels, and see if adaptogens are right for you!
