Adaptogens: Everything You Need to Know

Adaptogens are all the rage right now – and for a good reason. But have you questioned what they are, how to use them and where to start? Inside this podcast, we talk about adaptogens and everything you need to know.  

Adaptogens are not a new concept – in fact, adaptogens go back to ancient medicine. An adaptogen is defined as non-toxic plants that help the body resist stressors of all kinds; whether physical, chemical or biological. 

Unlike other supplements and medications, adaptogens work to adapt to the bodies needs. To help our body come back to a homeostatic normal.

I love the way Edward Wallace defines adaptogens;

“An adaptogen doesn’t have a specific action, but it helps you respond to any influence or stressor, normalizing your physiological functions.” 

Inside this podcast, we break down everything you need to know about adaptogens, from when to use them and when not to use them as well as how to get started. 

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the magic bullet

I love adaptogens – I do. I believe they can be vital in the drive for a healthy and thriving body. Especially in the overly stressed life that we live. But I don’t believe they are a magic bullet. 

While I could consider some of the adaptogenic herbs to be the closest you’d ever call something to a “superfood” or “magic bullet” we still have to remember that they can’t be used to replace a poor lifestyle or diet. But only to help, to adapt and come back to the middle ground. 

However, research is mounting on the amazing benefits of adaptogens. With some research stating that adaptogens can do for your adrenals what exercise does to your muscles. Make it stronger, more resilient and healthy. 

Check out this compilation of research you may find interesting. 

how they work

Adaptogens work on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathoadrenal system. Which are both involved in the body’s response to stress. 

When you take adaptogens, you’re helping to train your body to handle the effects of stress in a healthy way. This is done through tweaking hormone production and the physiological response to stress to ensure that your body from your mind to your immune system and energy levels function as they should. 

why you need them

Your body is built to release the hormone cortisol to respond to stress. The problem is that we no longer experience acute bouts of stress but long and sustained – meaning we have long sustained levels of cortisol in our body. And elevated cortisol levels over long periods and chronic stress can affect every physiological system in your body – including your thyroid and adrenal glands. 

We know that cortisol in the short term is excellent – helping your body fight off whatever is invading it. But over the long run, it leaves your body spent.

As mentioned, research shows that adaptogens have a protective effect when it comes to calming the stress response and promoting adrenal health {and hormonal health}.

If you’ve been working on a healthy lifestyle for a while and you’re ready for another level – I think it’s time you consider adding adaptogens to your diet. 

where to start?

If you’re new to adaptogens first, do your research. Know why you want to take them and then find an adaptogen that is specific to your symptom. However, if you’re looking for maintenance and overall health, here are my top five adaptogen recommendations:

1. maca powder

Maca is your hormones superpower. Some believe it can solve all your period problems. While that’s a bold statement, maca has been shown to help your body adapt to the stressful life situations that might otherwise deplete your body’s hormone production and cause problems. 

Maca is best for: 

• low energy levels
• low sex drive
• brain fog or poor concentration
• mood swings 
• depression
• PMS

Favorite sources of maca:

• This maca powder is fantastic {and potent} – I usually add it to smoothies like this Maca Monkey Smoothie
• I also have this Maca supplement for when I can’t make a smoothie. 

2. ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is known for its power at reducing oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is known as the internal process that contributes to cell damage and accelerated aging. Again, working on the stress response in the human body to improve the quality of life.

Ashwagandha is good for:

• sexual function
• energy levels
• reduce aging and wrinkles
• reduce joint pain
• immune system support
• hormonal balance

Favorite sources of Ashwagandha:

• This ashwagandha supplement is my favorite.
• If you’re looking for powder, I would suggest this one. 

3. Holy Basil 

Holy basil is a great tool to help stabilize blood sugar. Whether high or low, it acts on our hunger hormones like leptin, ghrelin, cortisol, and insulin to help maintain normal. Through this, it could be one of the more powerful adaptogens at easing the burden on our adrenals and helping to create a healthy hormone balance. Plus, it has been shown to help produce liver enzymes and support live function allowing your body to detoxify excess hormones and toxins. 

Holy basil is useful for: 

• reducing stress
• adrenal support
• anxiety reduction
• blood sugar imbalance
• liver support
• detoxification
• hormone balance

Favorite sources of holy basil:

• This tincture or liquid form is fantastic and easy to use. 
• I also really love it in the tea form.

4. Reishi Mushroom

Reishi is considered the most potent adaptogenic herb found. These mushrooms have been lauded for their anti-tumor, anti-androgenic, anti-aging and immune boosting effects. If any plant comes close to a being described as a superfood, this is it. Check out some of the amazing research on reishi mushrooms {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}

Reishi Mushroom is useful for: 

• cancer fighting + prevention
• immune support
• heart health
• blood sugar control
• depression
• fight fatigue
• increase antioxidants

Favorite sources of reishi mushrooms:

• This drink mix is a great way to use reishi without having to think about it.
• The powder is great to add to warm beverages or smoothies.

5. Valerian Root

Valerian root is known for its relaxing effects on the body. While it’s an excellent sedative, it also works to naturally calm anxiety, lower blood pressure and calm the central nervous system. 

Valerian root is good for people:

• sleep aid
• lower anxiety
• depression
• nervousness
• tension
• lower blood pressure
• pain
• menstrual pain

Favorite sources of valerian root:

• This is a great overall sleep aid.
• I also love this brand of adaptogens in general and specifically the valerian root supplement. 

other adaptogens

Of course there are many more adaptogenic herbs. Here are a few worth researching. 

• Panax Ginseng
• Rhodiola Rosea
• Schisandra
• Astragalus
• Licorice
• Moringa
• Eleuthero

final thoughts

Remember, be your judge. They aren’t for everyone and what works for one may not work for another. Take your time to process the use of adaptogens and then pick on and try it out. Listen to your body – you will know whether it’s helping or not. If it isn’t, then stop it and move on to something else. 

Our most powerful tool is still awareness! So be aware and start experimenting for yourself. 

**Make sure you talk to your doctor before adding adaptogens to your diet. Especially if you’re on prescription medications as there could be some interference. 

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