What Are Adaptogens And Why Are People Taking Them?

In the bustling world of health and wellness, where every new health fad promises us eternal youth and endless energy, one buzzword seems to be echoing louder than the rest. From lifestyle blogs to yoga instructors - adaptogens have everybody enamoured. You’ve probably found yourself hearing about adaptogenic mushrooms and herbs popping up in conversations and wondering what this mysterious and complicated-sounding word means. If yes, you’re in the right place.

Adaptogens: What are They?

Adaptogens are a specific category of non-toxic plants and herbs that can increase the capacity of your adrenal system, which is the system that controls your body’s hormonal response to stress. In simpler terms, they assist in reducing the impact of stress on the body and adapting to stress (hence the term ‘adaptogen’). These substances have been in existence for several years and formed a large part of the Chinese and Ayurvedic cultures.

Adaptogens are best described as herbs that possess the ability to help you get through thick and thin, just the way a good friend does when you are stressed out. These are important for your overall health and wellbeing because they assist your body in maintaining balance and protect you from stress which may come in the form of a tight schedule, numerous errands, or the overall hustle and bustle of the contemporary world.

The Star Players in the Adaptogen Lineup

There are several plants and herbs that classify them as adaptogens. Here are a few of the adaptogenic herbs explained:

• Ashwagandha: Often associated with stress-reducing properties, ashwagandha is a hug in a cup, as far as taste is concerned. It is also used to help relax the body and help with sleep disorders.

• Rhodiola Rosea: This Arctic root is ideal if you’re in search of an energy supplement that is derived naturally. It is often widely used in sports for increasing physical strength and decreasing the level of fatigue.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi): Widely used in Indian culture it has anti-inflammatory properties which are useful in the healing process and it also benefits the mind.

• Maca: Native to the heights of the Andes mountains, maca root is famously known for its ability to increase energy, endurance or sexual desire.

• Ginseng: Both Asian and American ginseng are known as tonics, they enhance one’s ability to concentrate and fight stress.

The Power of Adaptogens: Why Are People Taking Them?

#1 Stress Reduction

Suppose one can call a zen master whenever a person feels stressed or frustrated by everything that is going on around. That’s what ashwagandha, a well-known adaptogen, and other plants, such as holy basil do - provide natural stress relief. It also assists in the control of cortisol, the stress hormone that rises when stressed, which makes it easier to keep cool, composed and calm when things are messy.

#2 Enhanced Energy

If you are sick and tired of depending on coffee to give you energy during the day, it is time you got to know about adaptogen benefits like that of Rhodiola Rosea and Maca. While caffeine is known to give you a temporary boost in energy and then lead to a crash, adaptogenic herbs help to maintain a consistent level of energy in the body due to their ability to support the body’s natural production of energy. Such a transition is a lot like moving from a rollercoaster ride to a more relaxed and scenic car drive.

#3 Improved Mental Clarity

Ever find yourself sitting in front of your computer screen and your mind just goes blank like a puppy lost in a field? That can be helped with the help of adaptogens, as they’re known as the best natural product for anxiety. Ginseng and Bacopa Monnieri have nervous tonic effects that enhance concentration, memory and other aspects of mental performance. It’s like guiding your mind – not exactly pushing it, just reminding it of the right path it should be on.

#4 Better Sleep 

The importance of good quality sleep cannot be underemphasized since it is one of the foundational aspects of good health, and yet it is a commodity that is hard to come by. Introduce plants that help the human body to relax, such as ashwagandha and reishi mushrooms that help to regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. These adaptogens can help in calming the mind and therefore decrease the chances of one getting anxious when it is time to sleep or during the night. Now you can stop rolling from side to side in your sleep!

#5 Enhanced Physical Performance

From being a marathon runner to a regular gym goer, trying to maintain a healthy fitness regime, adaptogens can assist you. Rhodiola Rosea and cordyceps are two of the famous ingredients that have been known to increase stamina and fight fatigue so you can push through your workouts no matter how hard they are. It’s like having a personal cheerleader in your supplement cabinet, which might just be the best place for it.

How You Can Add Adaptogens to Your Daily Diet

The health benefits of adaptogens are immense. Thus adding them to your diet is easier than you might think! You can blend adaptogens like ashwagandha, tulsi, and ginseng and sip them with smoothies, teas and soups. Or if you prefer a more convenient option, adaptogens are available for consumption in capsule form.

Turn Your Life Around With Adaptogens!

Adaptogens are like Mother Nature’s way of guiding us towards a balanced life amidst the busy schedules we all lead in the current society. This is why their popularity has been apparent; people are always looking for natural ways to solve contemporary issues. These simple herbs and roots deliver so many opportunities for relaxation and increased energy, improved focus, and better sleep. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, it might be worth grabbing a cup of tea with adaptogens or a supplement containing them. Who knows? It might just be the botanical BFF you never knew you needed!