A Guide to Adaptogens

What are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are magical plants that support our bodies in many wonderful ways. They balance the endocrine system, restore energy, uplift our spirits, help us relax, and assist the body with processing stress. Adaptogens were first discovered in Traditional European and Asian cultures, where they were used in herbal medicine as a natural treatment to rebalance the body systems. Adaptogens can be taken in a variety of ways, from powders to teas, tinctures to capsules, and simply consuming them in their natural form.

My Personal Experience

I am a big believer in adaptogens, for I have felt their power first hand. When I began to experience chronic anxiety in my early 20’s, I realized something had to change. I’ve always been a bit of a deep thinker, worrier, and naturally “stressed-out” being. Over the years, I’ve realized that I must prioritize my emotional well-being by taking extra care of myself. Overtime, I learned how to ease stress naturally - from incorporating new rituals and practices into my life, to changing the way I nourish myself. Stress must be addressed in a holistic, whole body approach. It's important to look at all aspects of ourselves - from the mental and physical to spiritual, energetic, and spiritual. I invite you to take inventory of the foods you eat, how you move, your daily habits and routines, thoughts and beliefs, work load and boundaries, and how (and who with!) you spend your time. Prioritizing relaxation is deeply important. This is where adaptogens come in.

Choosing the Right Adaptogen for You

What areas of your life do you need support with most? Are you over-worked or feeling worn down? Do you have trouble falling asleep at night? Maybe you lack energy in the morning, or struggle with calming your thoughts. Whatever area you wish to improve, there's likely an adaptogenic plant ally to help! When sourcing adaptogens, look for organic, high quality brands. I purchase mine from local health food shops or online apothecaries. Some of my favourite powders come from Harmonic Arts, Organic Traditions, Mountain Rose Herbs. There are also many adaptogenic herbal tea, like Yogi Tea or Traditional Medicinals. Companies like Mountain Rose Herbs and Sun Potion which sell adaptogens in bulk. Buying in bulk can reduce the price dramatically, and is an excellent way to save some money - especially if you use the powders daily!

How to Take Adaptogens:

I like blending my adaptogens into my daily potions and smoothie bowls, sprinkling them on top porridge or yogurt bowls, and steeping them into morning and evening teas. Yogi Tea and Traditional Medicinals offer some wonderful botanical blends. Try to switch up the adaptogens you use every few weeks, so your body doesn't get too used to them (which makes their benefits less effective!) I try to rotate the adaptogens I'm taking every 2-3 weeks.

THE GUIDE:

*Disclaimer – All information shared below is a combination of my personal experience, research, and knowledge as a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, and is intended for educational purposes only. For personalized recommendations, please consult an Herbalist, Naturopathic Doctor, or Holistic Nutritionist.

Amla

Immunity, Skin, Hair
Amla, known as Indian gooseberry, is a nutritive fruit that’s been traditionally used in India for it’s medicinal properties. Rich in vitamin c, a, + antioxidants, Amla naturally supports our immune system. It’s anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties make it a beautiful ally against colds and flus in the winter months. The plant contains high levels of beta carotene and iron to enhance skin and hair health, along with soothing inflammation.

Ashwagandha

Stress, Stamina, Yang
Ashwagandha is a mighty plant with strengthening and revitalizing properties. Ashwagandha was originally cultivated in Ayurvedic Medicine for it’s abilities to combat stress and increase internal stamina. This powerful plant helps the body adapt to stress, rebuilds depletion, increases libido, and enhances yang energy.

Astragalus

Immunity, Inflammation, Life Force Energy
Astragalus is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to support the immune system and enhance energy levels. It’s nourishing and anti-inflammatory properties rebuild our internal “chi”, or life force energy. It’s a beautiful ally for these cold winter months!

Chaga

Stress, Energy, Inflammation
Chaga is an incredible mushroom for strengthening our immune system and improving energy levels. The mushroom also supports our adrenal glands, assisting the body adapt to stress. Chaga has a rich, slightly bitter taste, making it an excellent caffeine-free substitute to coffee.

Cordyceps

Energy, Stamina, Aphrodisiac
Cordyceps is a mighty mushroom that enhances libido and “masculine” qualities. The mushroom naturally stimulates energy to combat fatigue, along with increasing physical endurance. It’s also a potent source of antioxidants, supporting the body against free-radical damage.

Ginseng

Energizing, stimulating, immune-supportive
Ginsing’s energizing properties help the body cope with stress, and encourages cellular energy production. Ginseng also contains high levels of antioxidants and medicinal compounds that reduce inflammation and support overall well-being.

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Stress, Calm, Immunity
Holy basil is a beautiful herb for helping us relax! The plant’s soothing energies calm anxiousness and build resiliency against stress. Tulsi is also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making it a wonderful immune system support.

Licorice Root

PMS, Digestion, Stress
Licorice root positively influences our hormones by decreasing cortisol and balancing estrogen levels throughout the cycle. The herb is also used to relieve stress and balance PMS symptoms. Licorice is also very soothing for the digestive system, and is said to calm inflammation in the gut..

Lion's Mane

Brain Health, Memory, Digestion
Lion's main is our cognitive support! The mushroom is used to encourage brain health, increase memory, and promote mental clarity. Lion's Mane can also support our gut and digestive system by preventing the growth of bad bacteria.

Maca

Hormonal health, Libido, Menstruation
Maca is a beautiful female-supportive herb. It’s used to bring sex hormones back into balance, naturally increase libido, harmonizes ovulation and supports healthy cervical mucous production, and aids in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Reishi

Anxiety, Relaxation, Sleep
Reishi is the queen of calm! This mushroom’s soothing properties help to melt away anxiety, decrease cortisol level, and promote feelings of well-being. The mushroom is a beautiful support for worriers and anxious beings. Reishi’s relaxing qualities help induce sleepiness, making it the perfect bedtime tonic.

Rhodiola

Strength, Stamina, Stress
Rhodiola’s might qualities are said to increase stamina, build endurance, and enhance energy levels. Rhodiola is also a beautiful herbal ally for our adrenal glands, thus rebalancing depletion and reducing fatigue.

Shatavari

Harmonizing, Fertility, Femininity
The “mother” herb in Vedic and herbal medicine. Supportive and balancing throughout all stages of womanhood. Regulates menstrual flow and length, enhances fertility, nourishes the reproductive organs, a natural aphrodisiac, brings sexual hormones back into optimal balance.

Schisandra

Balancing, harmonizing, detoxifying
Schisandra is known as a “king” herb in Chinese Medicine, containing the energy of each of the five elements. It’s used to naturally reduce stress levels and promote relaxation and harmony. Schisandta is also said to enhance mental clarity, encourage detoxification by supporting the liver, and naturally improve digestion.

Shiitake

Inflammation, Immunity, skin health
Shitake mushrooms offer anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive qualities, due to their incredible nutrient-rich profile. They're particular high in copper, vitamin d, b vitamins, and selenium, naturally improving skin health. Shittake mushrooms are excellent to cook with, since you can often find them at your local grocery store and easily incorporate them into many dishes.

Turkey Tail

Immunity, Digestion, Inflammation
Turkey tail is a powerful mushroom that grows abundantly in our damp West Coast forests during the winter months. Nature always provides what we need, which makes it no surprise that Turkey tail naturally strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammation. It’s also considered to be a 'prebiotic' food. Prebiotics feed healthy gut bacteria, improve digestion, and encourage the growth of good bacteria.