It's no secret that confronting and mitigating stress is part of our daily lives; that handling a certain level of stress each day is completely normal. However, what may be less known by many of us is the toll these seemingly "normal" day-to-day stressors can take on our health and mental well-being.
Although many of us may not realize it, stress has significant long-term impacts that can affect how well our body functions. Furthermore, regular stress that isn't dealt with properly can increase the rate you age and may contribute to feelings of anxiety.
However, adaptogens may be able to help; they are naturally occurring substances used for centuries in traditional medicines that can help your body adapt and respond to stress. They come from plants and herbs that are generally safe for almost anyone to take.
Adaptogens can be taken individually or blended together in a prepared formulation such as an elixir or gel cap supplement.
Examples of Natural Adaptogens Include:
Ashwagandha
Astragalus
Rhodiola Rosea
Maca Root
Reishi Mushroom
When you're feeling run down, anxious, or stressed, adaptogens might be able to help. Here are seven adaptogenic herbs and supplements that could help busy women like you feel less stressed and more balanced.
Ashwagandha
Also known as "Indian ginseng," Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It's thought to help the body adapt to stress by reducing the amount of cortisol, the hormone our bodies release when we're under pressure or feeling threatened.
Studies have shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in reducing chronic stress and anxiety, as well as improving memory and cognitive function.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola is an adaptogen that grows in cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It's sometimes called "golden root" or "arctic root." Rhodiola Rosea is the most common type of Rhodiola.
Rhodiola is an adaptogen that helps the body adapt to external stressors. It's thought to work by reducing levels of stress hormones in the body. Rhodiola is commonly used as a natural treatment for anxiety and depression.
A 2017 study found that Rhodiola may help reduce stress-related symptoms, such as fatigue and anxiety. The study involved 100 participants with prolonged chronic fatigue symptoms who were randomly assigned to receive either Rhodiola Rosea or a placebo for eight weeks.
The participants taking Rhodiola Rosea reported significantly less fatigue, anxiety, and depression than those in the placebo group.
Astragalus
If you're looking for an adaptogen that can help increase your energy levels, look no further than astragalus. This herb has been traditionally used in China for centuries as a way to boost the immune system, improve heart health, and increase longevity.
Astragalus is an adaptogen that helps to modulate the stress response by normalizing cortisol levels. It can also help to improve energy levels and increase stamina.
Maca Root
Maca is an adaptogen that has been shown to help the body adapt to stress and improve energy levels. It is also effective in reducing anxiety and depression. Maca may also enhance sexual function and increase libido.
Schisandra
Schisandra is an adaptogen that has been shown in recent studies to help protect the body against stress and improve liver function. It may also be effective in reducing anxiety and depression.
Schisandra is safe for most, but it isn't appropriate for everyone. Those who should avoid supplements containing Schisandra include:
Pregnant or nursing women
people with gastric conditions such as GERD.
Eleuthero
Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, is an adaptogen herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Eleuthero is thought to help the body adapt to stress by reducing the adverse effects of stress hormones on the body. This adaptogenic herb may also help improve mental and physical performance during times of stress.
What are the benefits of Eleuthero?
Eleuthero is thought to offer various benefits for stress management and symptoms of anxiety. This adaptogenic herb may help to:
reduce the harmful effects of stress hormones on the body
improve mental and physical performance during times of stress
boost energy levels
enhance immune system function
decrease anxiety and improve mood
How do I take Eleuthero?
Eleuthero is available in capsules, tinctures, and teas. The recommended dosage of eleuthero is 300-500 mg per day. It is important to start with a lower dose and increase it gradually as needed.
Lower Stress with Quality Adaptogens
As women, we constantly juggle a million things at once. Between work, family, and social obligations, it's no wonder that stress and anxiety are such common problems. While adaptogens can't do all the work for us, they can be an effective tool in helping us reduce the adverse effects of stress on our bodies.
