Adaptogens seem to be a buzz word in the health world these past few years. What actually are adaptogens? They are specific plants and mushrooms that may help your body manage stress and restore balance. Some common specific plants are but not limited to ashwagandha, licorice root, tulsi/holy basil, medicinal mushrooms (lionsmane, chaga, cordyceps, reishi) rhondiola, shatavari, schisandra, astralagus, eleuthero, asian ginseng, maca root, and dang shen. These plants and herbs strengthen and balance your stress response system. They may be a buzzword currently, but adaptogens have been around since ancient times within Chinese Functional Medicine and Indian Aryuveda Medicine. They help the body adapt to physical and mental stresses.
Items that we consume that have adaptogens may support our nervous system. Adaptogens are a class of herbs that regenerate energy, not spike it. It supports our cortisol levels. You can use adaptogens in a variety of formats; mixing powders, capsules, teas, tinctures, soups, even skincare to name a few. Deciding which adaptogens you would like to try depends on what brought you to deciding to try them. Are you looking to relieve stress, increase your energy, have better sleep? Adaptogens tend to work better when you consume them daily. The theory is that they build the body’s immunity up to be able to adapt and control future stressful situations.
Adaptogen drinks are non-alcoholic beverages infused with specific herbs, roots, and/or functional mushrooms designed to help the body manage stress and support balance. There are many beverages containing adaptogens popping up these days; for mocktail mixers try Curious Elixirs, for hot drink/coffee replacements try Mudwtr or Rasa. Be mindful of any added sugars when shopping brands. Would love to know what you like if you already drink adaptogen drinks, drop a line!
Getting started — what should you try first?
If you’re new to adaptogen drinks, here’s a simple starting point based on your goal:
- Stress & anxiety relief → Ashwagandha or Reishi-based drinks
- Focus & mental clarity → Lion’s Mane powder or Schisandra Berry teas
- Energy without caffeine crash → Rhodiola or Maca lattes
- General wellness & immunity → Chaga or Tulsi teas
*Be sure to consult your physician prior to taking adaptogens if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication (make sure there is no negative interaction)*