If there is something we all deal with, it’s stress! How well do you adapt to stress? Can you handle it well, or do you end up with any of a variety of symptoms from stomachache and gut issues to headache and tension? One way you can adapt better is with adaptogens. The term adaptogen is used for herbs that increase the body’s resistance to stress by having a normalizing effect on body systems, essentially allowing you to handle stress more efficiently. Here are 3 adaptogen picks from around the world:
Indian Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most widely used herbs in India due to its rejuvenative properties. It supports adrenal function, reduces the stress hormone cortisol, and may be effective in dealing with mild anxiety and depression. In research, people using ashwagandha reported lowered symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to those who took a placebo.
Siberian Rhodiola
Rhodiola has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Russian scientists found that Rhodiola could improve both mental and physical performance. It may help during times of stress by improving stress-induced fatigue. Rhodiola has also been shown to reduce production of cortisol, a stress hormone linked to metabolic changes including increased blood glucose levels and increased fat storage in the abdomen.
Asian Reishi Mushroom
Reishi has been part of Chinese and Japanese cultures for over 2000 years, used for enhancing physical and mental endurance. Now available in western countries, Reishi is used as a potent immune stimulator and may fight viral infections and promote respiratory health. Research also suggests that reishi acts as an adaptogen, with people reporting lower levels of anxiousness, increased sense of well-being, and even better sleep.
These herbs are readily available in a variety of forms: liquid extract, powder, gummy or capsules. Whichever herb you choose, you can help your body handle stress better with adaptogens.
