Adaptogenic herbs and spices help to support our stress response system. Everyone is talking about the stress they are experiencing or have experienced and the impact it has on their lives.
To begin with, stress is a real thing and even medical doctors are beginning to realize that. Besides, it is unavoidable for many of us, and there is help around the corner.
Furthermore, have you heard about adaptogenic herbs and spices? To begin with, they do what their name states. They help our bodies adapt to the stressors in our life. They also help the body respond to stress, increase energy and minimize fatigue. What’s not to love?
There are many different adaptogenic herbs and spices. Here is a summary of some of the more common ones:
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Ashwagandha
An ancient herb used for thousands of years to relieve stress and improve mood, energy and concentration. Ashwagandha blocks the stress pathway and may lowers chronically elevated levels of cortisol – the stress hormone.
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Rosemary
Not only is rosemary an herb that has a distinct pungent aroma and taste, it is a powerful adaptogen. But it also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. Which can help to balance many bodily functions, including digestion and memory and concentration.
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Licorice
Licorice root is well-known as a soothing herb. It comes in many forms, tea, syrup, pastilles, candies etc., and is easy to obtain. Furthermore, Licorice soothe all types of inflammation, and it helps balance cortisol levels.
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Milk thistle
Milk thistle is the “liver” herb, as it supports liver metabolism and detoxification. Consequently, a well-functioning liver aids in the management of hormones correlated to stress.
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Rhodiola
Rhodiola has been used for centuries to relieve stress, induce relaxation and boost energy and immunity. Hence, It is one of the most powerful known adaptogens.
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Panax Ginseng
Panax Ginseng is a tonic that helps people cope with stress and for the improvement general well-being.
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Maca Root
An extremely nutritious root, maca is well-known for its hormone balancing effects. In particular, Maca improves male and female health, as well as boost performance and energy. In addition, because of its taste and possible side effects, anyone taking maca should take caution.
What to know when choosing your herbs:
Herbs are very personal to the individual person and their life circumstances. There are many different adaptogenic blends out there, from many different brands. Therefore, finding a reputable brand which actually work is of great importance. Some suggestions for finding a suitable herbal product:
- Do some research on the herbs in the blend – is there enough of each herb?
- What herbs can be used together.
- How difficult it is to obtain the herbs or spices.
- Rare herbs are not usually found in the quantities that one would need.
- Is the herb organic, and is it sourced from its natural habitat. For instance, Maca should be found in Peru because that is its natural habitat.
- How does the herb interact with any other supplements, herbs or medications you are taking? Consult your healthcare practitioner.
In conclusion, if you are under constant stress and can’t figure out how to deal with it, adaptogens maybe an answer. Although not the only answer, it could probe beneficial in the long-run.
Deika King, TND, MH, CCT, PSc.D
Traditional Doctor of Naturopathy
832-422-7271
