Adaptogens are natural substances that are used to improve general well-being. They are usually present in plants or fungiand it is increasingly normal that we see them as ingredients of drinks or food.
In order to be marketed, they have to meet a series of requirements: not be toxic and be suitable for use over a long period of time. you can find them in powder format (ideal to include in your teas, infusions or juices) or can be taken as supplements in capsules.
Its origin dates back to the Cold War, when Soviet scientists began to investigate the properties of certain plants and herbs that seemed to improve physical and mental stamina. The first studies in this area focused on eleutherococcus, also known as Siberian ginseng, and were carried out in the 1940s.
During the 1960s, adaptogens began to be used by athletes and the Soviet military to improve their physical and mental performance. And in the 1970s they became popular among the general population.
What are natural adaptogens and what are they for?
Adaptogens are natural substances that They are used to help the body adapt and cope with physical, emotional or environmental stress. These substances help balance the nervous, hormonal, and immune systems, and can improve the body’s resistance and resilience.
Adaptogens include a wide variety of plants, herbs, and fungi, such as ginseng, ashwagandha, rhodiola, maca, reishi, among others. These substances have traditionally been used in natural medicine in various cultures.
However, it is important to note that research on adaptogens is still limited and more studies are needed to confirm its effects and possible risks. Additionally, it is important to speak with a health professional before starting any supplements or natural substances.
What are the 10 adaptogens?
There are several adaptogens that have been studied for their potential health benefits. Next, we explain which are the best known:
- Ashwagandha. An herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and reduce inflammation. Discover all the properties of ashwagandha in this article.
- Rhodiola. A plant that has been used traditionally in Chinese and Russian medicine to improve physical and mental performance, reduce fatigue, and increase resistance to stress. It is also used to increase endurance, improve productivity at work, resistance to altitudes, dizziness, fatigue, depression or anemia.
- Ginseng. A root used in traditional Chinese medicine to improve physical and mental stamina, reduce stress, and improve immune function.
- Maca. A root grown in the Andes and traditionally used to increase energy, improve mood, and balance hormone levels.
- Reishi. Also known as Lingzhi, it is a medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is found in Asia, especially China, Japan, and Korea, but it is also cultivated in other parts of the world. It is used for a wide variety of medicinal purposes, including reducing stress, increasing energy, enhancing immune function, and reducing inflammation.
- Cordyceps. A mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a wide variety of conditions such as: asthma, bronchitis, chronic fatigue, sexual dysfunction, kidney failure, and diabetes, among others. It has also been used as an athletic performance enhancer.
- Schisandra. A plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. Among its benefits, blood purification stands out, it helps to improve mental clarity and increase energy. In addition, it has high toning properties
- Bacopa. Also know as Bacopa monnieri, is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in Indian Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory, learning and concentration. It is a perennial plant that grows in hot and humid climates, especially in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh.
- sea buckthorn. A berry that is traditionally used to improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and improve immune function.
- Amla. A fruit used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and improve immune function.
Contraindications of adaptogens
Although adaptogens can have many health benefits, it’s important to note that not everyone can take them, as some may experience side effects.
- Drug interactions. Some adaptogens can interact with certain medications, which can increase or decrease their effect. It is important to speak with a health professional before taking any supplements or natural substances if you are taking medication.
- Allergic reactions. Some people may be allergic to certain adaptogens, which can cause allergic reactions such as rashes, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Gastrointestinal disorders. Some adaptogens can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal pain.
- Changes in blood pressure. Sometimes they can affect blood pressure, so they are not recommended for people with hypertension or hypotension.
- Pregnancy and lactation. The use of adaptogens during pregnancy or lactation is not recommended, as there have been insufficient studies on their safety in these situations.
adaptogens for menopause
Some adaptogens may be beneficial for women during menopause, as they can help relieve symptoms associated with this natural process, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, irritability, and anxiety.
- Rhodiola. It can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase energy.
- Ginseng. Help improve sleep, reduce hot flashes and improve cognitive function.
- Ashwagandha. Reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality and increase energy.
adaptogens for anxiety
In general, all adaptogens can help reduce stress or anxiety levels. They are a good natural alternative to help our mental and emotional well-being.
It’s important to put attention on adaptogens are not a one-size-fits-all solution for treating anxiety, and that if you experience severe or persistent anxiety symptoms, you should speak to a health professional for appropriate treatment.
Canva
The main property of the ashwagandha adaptogen is its ability to control stress levels.
adaptogens to lose weight
Although adaptogens are not a specific weight loss treatment, some of them may be beneficial in supporting weight loss in conjunction with a healthy eating plan and regular physical exercise.
