What are adaptogens?

Adaptogens are plant substances (often herbs and mushrooms) that have been found to help our bodies manage stress, anxiety, fatigue, and overall wellness. They help maintain balance, or homeostasis. In other words, they help us adapt to external stressors. By strengthening our internal systems, adaptogens can promote vitality, stabilize mood and improve performance and focus. You can take adaptogens by adding them to food or beverages or take them as tinctures. Adaptogens bring your body back to a steady balance by managing both physical and mental stressors.

How Do Adaptogens Work?

Adaptogens may be for your adrenal glands what exercise is for your muscles.

Research says that adaptogens interact with our hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a complex system of glands in the body, including our adrenals. For example, certain adaptogens help raise or lower hormone levels. They are also shown to affect the immune-neuro-endocrine system, which allows the body to maintain its immunity and energy use.

“Adaptogens work differently for everybody,” says Dr. Bindiya Gandhi, M.D., a double board-certified integrative and family medicine physician and medical director at Revive Atlanta, MD. “They can upregulate or downregulate, and oftentimes they work great for everyone,” she says, adding that sometimes, folks see side effects they might not like.

Popular Adaptogens Used In Centered Herbs And Their Common Benefits

Ashwagandha

often used in Ayurvedic practices, Ashwagandha has been shown to help with acute anxiety and long-term stress. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s one of the most popular and studied adaptogens, and its powders and capsules can be helpful if you need to chill out and recenter.

Astragalus

used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, the astragalus root is touted for its positive effects on the immune system and cardiovascular system. It’s used to treat the common cold and fatigue and has antioxidant properties.

Bacopa

is a nootropic, which means it may help improve cognitive function, boost memory, and effect creativity in healthy individuals. It can help stabilize mood, boost energy, and promote brain health. It also supports the nervous system and is loaded with antioxidants. Bacopa extract can also help promote healthy hair, heart health, and support the respiratory system.

Ceylon Cinnamon

may help with maintaining healthy blood glucose levels in already healthy individuals and has been used to aid digestion for thousands of years. It is loaded with antioxidants and, when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise, may help maintain healthy levels of fat, cholesterol, and glucose healthy body weight. Cinnamon bark extract may also help fortify the immune system

Ginger

is loaded with antioxidants and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. Ginger root extract may help contribute to healthier, younger-looking skin and help support the heart and cardiovascular system. It may aid the body in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels when taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise. Ginger root extract also helps promote healthy metabolism and may assist in healthy weight management. Ginger root extract also supports the digestive system.

Ginseng

both American and Asian Ginseng have been shown primarily to boost energy and reduce fatigue. They can also potentially increase cognitive function. Ginseng has been used in China for thousands of years and has been found in Japan, Korea, Russia, and North America.

Gotu Kola

Ginkgo Biloba

is loaded with antioxidants and may help with memory, mood, and cardiovascular health.

Holy Basil

Horny Goat Weed

contains dozens of flavonoids, many of which are prenylflavonoids and may have a wide range of health benefits. It is most commonly taken to help boost libido and promote sexual health. Horny goat weed may help support heart health, fortify the brain, strengthen the bones, and support the joints. Horny goat weed may also aid with maintaining healthy blood pressure levels in already healthy individuals when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise.

Licorice Root

along with its use as a candy flavoring, licorice root has been used in Indian, Chinese, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern medicines for centuries. It’s thought to help with colds and sore throats, menopausal symptoms, digestive problems, and bacterial and viral infections.

Maca

this superfood is loaded with vitamins and minerals and is a rich source of antioxidants. In addition, it aids memory, supports libido and sexual health, fortifies immune function, and improves stamina by boosting energy and endurance.

Schisandra

has a wide range of potential benefits and is loaded with antioxidants. It helps support healthy mood and may aid cognitive function. Schisandra extract may also help with exercise endurance and may support women's health.

Turmeric

the traditional Indian spice sees its many health benefits from a powerful compound it contains called curcumin. Its extensively studied benefits include boosting brain function and helping fight depression, along with its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric Curcumin 95%

with 95% curcuminoids, this extraction is more potent than average turmeric. It is loaded with antioxidants and helps support the joints. It aids digestion and helps support the eyes and brain. Curcumin may even help in maintaining cardiovascular health and weight management.