9 Adaptogenic Herbs: Benefits In Chronic Stress

Stress is a risk factor for several diseases. For instance, it can worsen health conditions such as obesity and Alzheimer’s disease. Apart from being a risk factor, it is an important predictor of your health. Today, herbal medicines such as adaptogenic herbs can improve and regulate stress response.

What Are Adaptogenic Herbs?

This refers to non-toxic plants that help the body resist different stressors. Furthermore, they support the body’s ability to adapt to varying chemical, biological and physical stressors. In addition, different cultures have used these roots and herbs in healing. 

For instance, the Chinese used adaptogens for anxiety where they brewed them as teas. So, adaptogens have a similar effect on your adrenal glands as what exercise does to your muscles.

Does Adaptogenic Really Works?

The answer is yes, although many proponents believe they need further research to support the claim. As Powell says, “When we exercise, it’s a stress on our body."

But as we continue to train and exercise, our body becomes better at dealing with the stress of it, so we no longer get as tired or as high a heart rate. Meanwhile, when you are taking adaptogenic herbs, you are instructing your body to handle the effects of stress.

Our body goes through a series of physical and emotional responses, especially when we are experiencing stress. Unfortunately, our bodies may overreact to other types of stress.

Excessive stress has harmful effects in our body as it may contribute to several diseases such as anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, obesity, and addiction. 

Adaptogen controls the hormones of physical responses, to make sure your body, mind and immune system are in proper function.

Natural Adaptogenic Herbs to Ease Your Pain

Little stress is necessary. Also, it keeps your immune system sharp. The problem is, chronic stress can lead to heart disease and adrenal burnout, to address these issues people are looking for a natural way to control and reduce the negative impact of it.

According to the researchers, adaptogenic herbs show a promising result on stress, pain, mental health and cognitive disorders. That means these herbs may help the body to deal with stress more effectively, but it may also improve the quality of life, longevity and brain health. 

The most common adaptogens

1. Maca Root

A native of Peru, Maca root is both a superfood and an adaptogen. Grown in the Andes Mountains, maca root is rich in fiber, magnesium, calcium, and protein. Moreover, it is also rich in arginine and glycine.

In the past, it has been used to improve mood, ease symptoms of adrenal fatigue and fertility. Also, with stress, Maca root stimulates the endocrine system to help maintain a hormonal balance.

2. Asian Ginseng

As one of the most potent adaptogens, Asian ginseng has proven to improve memory performance. In a 2003 study, researchers sought to find out the anti-stress effects of Panax ginseng.

After several trials, the researchers discovered that Panax ginseng posses significant anti-stress properties. As such, it is an effective treatment of stress-induced disorders.

3. Ashwagandha

Commonly referred to as the Indian ginseng, ashwagandha means “horse smell” in Sanskrit. Why? It has a strong smell. But the good news is that it helps to calm your mind, reduce inflammation, and lower your blood pressure.

Also, ashwagandha has proven to enhance thyroid function and increase serum concentrations.

4. Rhodiola

Rhodiola works by reducing the production of cortisol. Secretion of cortisol occurs when you are in a stressful situation, and too much cortisol depletes your nutrient reserves. It has devastating effects on your blood pressure, metabolism and blood sugar.

Apart from reducing the production of cortisol, it also helps to increase your energy.

5. Eleuthero

First used in China as an herbal remedy, it helps your body cope with stress. Second, it contains compounds that help combat fatigue and stabilize your blood sugar levels.

How does it work? In particular, it binds with estrogen receptor sites decreasing memory problems, fatigue, and insomnia.

6. Schisandra

This adaptogenic herb has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions in liver and stomach disorders. It also helps in normalizing the blood sugar and blood pressure.

7. Licorice Root

It is considered as one of the world's oldest remedies. Since licorice root may have strong anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and microbial effects, it may offer potential health benefits. Especially in preventing/relieving infection, tooth decay, and stomach discomfort.

8. Holy Basil

This herb is a calming adaptogenic. That means it may lessen the effects of stress on the body by initiating relaxation while providing sustainable energy. It can also protect your body from infection, regulate blood sugar and cholesterol.

9. Medical Mushrooms (Reishi, Chaga, Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps)

These mushrooms are loaded with healing compounds. From fighting cancer to relieving stress. Not just that, the extracts from the mushroom Chaga may enhance focus, improve memory, and may increase exercise endurance.

Cautions Of Taking Adaptogens

Keep in mind that some of these supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drugs Association (FDA). Seek for medical advice from your doctor before purchasing supplements or herbs to ensure that there will be no interactions with your current medications or conditions you may have. 

Adaptogenic herbs may be safe for most people. Just like any other plants, there are minor side effects, such as allergies, gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, drowsiness for some people. 

Takeaway

Chronic stress may kill the quality of life.

Having a healthy lifestyle, proper rest, and eating healthy food may prevent stress that may cause chronic stress. 

Adding adaptogenic herbs that are loaded with micro-nutrients to your routine can make you even resilient to the damaging effects of chronic stress and provide your body protection against high cortisol levels.

Shopping for natural alternatives that promote better health and reduce your stress? We at Naravis can help. Contact us today and learn more about our products.

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