What are Adaptogens?

The use of plants for healing purposes has been a part of many traditional cultures and still continues to play an important role in medicine today. After all, herbal remedies are one the most ancient forms of health care known to mankind. 

Before healthcare and medicine as we know it, herbs were amongst the few reliable healing methods available. This history is confirmed by a large majority of the world’s population still dependant on herbal medicine for healthcare/treatment, as well as informative modern research confirming their true benefits. 

What Are Adaptogens?

Simply put, adaptogens are a group of herbs, plants and mushrooms which support the body’s natural ability to cope with stress. In our fast paced world, the causes of stress can be endless - work deadlines and meetings dominating your calendar, your bestie’s having a meltdown and/or your baby has just cleaned your carpet with your favourite dish.

We’re also exposed to daily environmental stress factors such as toxic pesticides & sprays, refined sugars in our foods and pollution. It is no secret that the body isn’t designed to be in a permanent state of stress - and for many of us who are unable to put the brakes on, the chronic effects can lead to an array of health issues such as:

• Mental Exhaustion and Fatigue
• Poor Immunity 
• Insomnia
• Mood Swings
• Poor Digestive Function (Gas/Bloated, Constipation, IBS)

…and much more. But thankfully, these remarkable, rejuvenating herbs are able to give the body and mind a biological boost, to better cope with stress and avoid getting sick.

Did You Know?

Many plants described as adaptogens grow in harsh environments such as freezing cold or extremely hot temperatures. Nevertheless, they are able to ‘adapt’ (hence the name!) and overtime, survive and flourish in these conditions. It is thought, that if these plants can adapt so well, then perhaps they can also help us to adapt to our own seasonal stressors. 

How Do Adaptogens Work?

Adaptogens have a nourishing effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis which regulates communication between our brain and our hormones. This helps those feelings of stress and urgency to subside, restoring balance in the body’s adrenal glands, enhancing our mood and improving metabolism.

Research shows, Adaptogen Mushrooms such as Reishi, Chaga and Lions Mane also work closely with the immune-neuro-endocrine system, which helps our body regulate its use of energy, improve cognitive function and maintain strong immunity.

How Can Adaptogens Help, What Are The Benefits?

• Improve overall wellness
• Strengthen immune system function
• Increase energy levels
• Optimise organ function
• Reduce stress/anxiety levels
• Improve blood sugar levels
• Regulate the hormonal balance
• Supports fertility

You could say, incorporating adaptogens as part of a routine is one component to help you move towards a healthy lifestyle, which includes good sleep, healthy nutrition and regular exercise. 

It’s important to know that adaptogens aren’t meant to be a quick antidote or cure to stress. They should be taken consistently over a long period to help your body to build resilience and feel the benefits. Some people take a weeks break to acclimatise and then try a different blend of herbs or stick to the ones which worked for them.*

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*If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a serious illness or taking prescriptive medication, you should always consult a qualified herbalist or your doctor before taking any herbs. These herbs have been used for thousands of years and still are today, any complex or long-term health issues should be discussed with a medical herbalist.