One conversation that has remained a constant in society and has lately picked up steam under the banner of self-care is how to manage stress. The recommendations are often broad, some that are tried and true and others that are questionable and ineffective. As an herbalist I have had the opportunity to formulate for myself, friends, family and my business and one thing I am consistently making sure to include are adaptogenic herbs or adaptogens. What exactly are adaptogens? By Merriam-Webster's definition: a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body's ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning.
Why Adaptogens?
They present a lower risk to your biological health. They are generally non-toxic when used appropriately and can help your body cope with stress reducing the overall effects of stress on your body. A lot of them are easily added to the diet and safe to be eaten regularly. You may already be consuming plants, roots or mushrooms with adaptogenic properties. One example is mushroom coffees, which have increased in popularity over the last few years generally contain at least two adaptogenic mushrooms.
How to use them
American culture tends to over consume products when they find something new, that either science has said is effective or is highly recommended. As with anything it is always best to proceed with caution and consider how things were used traditionally. Often the historical benefits are not a result of concentrated supplementation, but regular or occasional consumption cooked into a meal or steeped into a tea or tincture.
Excessive use can lead to unexpected side effects. Let's consider two common adaptogens, licorice root and turmeric. Overusing licorice root can lead to life threatening issues, some of which are the opposite of its properties, hypertension, heart failure and low potassium are just a few of the risks. Excessive consumption of turmeric can cause digestive issues and lead to liver failure as well.
Adaptogens We Use
In addition to each having adaptogenic benefits and properties each of these herbs has additional properties as well that we use them in formulation for.
1. Chaga Mushroom
Nutritive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardioprotective. You can find Chaga in our He-Time™ blend.
2. Astragalus Root
Immunomodulator, helps activate immune function.
Blends: After ParTea™Balance-Her BlendsBeauTea Sleep™He-Time™She-Time™Immune SupportDetox
3. Reishi Mushroom
Antioxidant, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory.
Blends: Balance-Him™ BeauTea Sleep™ Detox Super Prostate™
4. Licorice Root
Nutritive, mild laxative, protective of the liver, expectorant, hypotensive
Blends: Detox
5. Rhodiola Root
Increases energy, stamina, mental capacity and improves athletic performance and strength
Blends:
6. Schisandra Berries
Hepato-protective, Increases stamina strength, reduces sweating,
Blends: Balance-Her Platinum Edition™
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This blog is for educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.