What is an Adaptogen?
Adaptogens are herbal pharmaceuticals that are believed to counteract the effects of stress in the body. Sounds amazing right? Well, keep in mind like all "magic pills" and solutions.. results may vary depending on a number of factors.
Adaptogens work by regulating stable balances in the hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal glands. These structures form the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. You may have heard of HPA Axis dysfunction (Adrenal Fatigue).. but thats a topic for a different day. Typically, our bodies tolerate stress in phases:
- alarm phase
- phase of resistance
- phase of exhaustion
For example, say we start lifting weights — our body will respond by kicking out hormones like adrenaline that improve muscle performance and increase our ability to concentrate and pay attention to the task. (Alarm Phase)
Next, our body begins adapting and in other words, resisting the stressor, as it begins to acclimate and recover. However, too long in this stage will generally lead to feelings of burnout amongst other performance decreasing side effects. Which is why it is important to change workout stimuluses and pay attention to recovery techniques. (Resistance Phase)
Finally, after prolonged stress we will fall into the exhaustion phase. This phase is characterized by plenty of unpleasant side effects both physically and mentally.
Adaptogens in essence allows for our bodies to remain in the “sweet spot” — the phase of resistance — allowing us to hang out in the most beneficial part longer.
Now that we've covered the boring stuff lets check out my Top 3!
Ashwagandha
What is it?
Ashwagandha is a popular herb used in traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda) for stress relief and to improve general health. It can help you relax and reduce swelling.
Usage?
- To reduce anxiety (strong feelings of worry)
- To reduce stress (buffer cortisol)
- To reduce fatigue (feeling more tired or weak than usual)
- To reduce joint pain (anti-inflammatory)
- Treatment of diabetes (reduces blood glucose)
- Boost Testosterone
Can It Be Taken Regularly?
Lowering cortisol sounds amazing! Just be aware that cycling off of for a few weeks every couple of months is recommended. The objective with plant-based medicine is to try and repair our systems and recreate a place of homeostasis so that we can be balanced on our own.
Rhodiola
What is it?
Herb used in traditional medicine in Eastern Europe and Asia.
Usage?
- Manage stress
- Energy Improving (feeling very tired or having less energy than usual)
- Improve Rate of Perceived Exertion (Your ability to maintain high effort longer)
- Concentration and Focus
Can It Be Taken Regularly?
Like ashwagandha, cycling is recommended.. perhaps not as long as a hiatus, but still should give your body a break to continue to feel the full benefits.
Ginseng (Panax)
What is it?
Different from American Ginseng.. Asian ginseng is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It also comes as capsules, softgels, tablets, and liquid extracts.
Usage?
- Boost the immune system.
- Increase strength and stamina.
- Treat diabetes.
- Treat erectile dysfunction (ED, trouble getting or keeping an erection).
Wrap Up
As you can see my top 3 have a ton of shared qualities, which means that you perhaps should give them all a try at some point or another to see which one works best with your body. (Under the supervision of a trained professional)
In my opinion, you cant go wrong with trying the different herbs.. just like with all things be PATIENT.. even if the guarantee is "right away"