You’ve probably heard the popular buzz word “Adaptogen” over the last few years…but what are they?
Adaptogens help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. They are known for their ability to enhance resilience to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. Adaptogens are often used to support overall wellness, energy, immune function, and mental clarity.
My Top 10 Go-To Adaptogens
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
- Uses: Known for its calming properties, ashwagandha supports stress reduction, improves sleep, and enhances energy and stamina.
- Preparation: Often consumed as a powder in teas, capsules, or mixed into smoothies.
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)
- Uses: Boosts mental performance, reduces fatigue, and helps manage stress. Commonly used for mental clarity and physical endurance.
- Preparation: Typically taken as a tincture, capsule, or tea.
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum or Tulsi)
- Uses: Promotes relaxation, supports immune health, and balances mood.
- Preparation: Frequently enjoyed as a tea or tincture, or added to meals.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius)
- Uses: Enhances energy levels, mental focus, and physical stamina while helping the body manage stress.
- Preparation: Available as a tea, powder, or capsule.
Maca (Lepidium meyenii)
- Uses: Known for its hormone-balancing effects, maca boosts energy, stamina, and libido.
- Preparation: Typically consumed as a powder in smoothies, oatmeal, or baking.
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)
- Uses: Supports liver health, enhances endurance, and improves mental clarity.
- Preparation: Commonly used as a tincture, tea, or powdered extract.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)
- Uses: A medicinal mushroom that boosts energy, enhances athletic performance, and supports respiratory health.
- Preparation: Often used as a powdered supplement, capsule, or brewed into a tea.
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
- Uses: Improves physical performance, supports immune function, and enhances resilience to stress.
- Preparation: Taken as a tea, tincture, or capsule.
Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
- Uses: Calms the mind, supports the immune system, and promotes restful sleep.
- Preparation: Often consumed as a tea, capsule, or powdered extract.
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
- Uses: Supports adrenal function, reduces inflammation, and balances energy.
- Preparation: Commonly brewed as a tea or taken as a tincture or capsule.
General Guidelines for Using Adaptogens in Herbalism
- Consistency: Adaptogens work best when used regularly over a prolonged period.
- Customization: Choose adaptogens based on individual needs (e.g., calming vs. energizing).
- Safety: Consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
- Preparation: Adaptogens can be integrated into teas, tinctures, capsules, powders, and foods, depending on preference and availability.