Adaptogens are commonly termed as herbal pharmaceuticals that include a variety of nontoxic options like, mushrooms, roots, and herbs.

They work in such a way that they reduce or even eliminate the harmful effects of stress on our bodies.  Stress affects all the systems of our body – the endocrine system, the nervous system, the digestive system, the cardiovascular system, and more.

Adaptogens work in cohesion with our immune system and prevent any serious damage that could happen to the body due to stress.

The history of the origin of the adaptogens dates back to world war 11 when scientists and doctors were researching a superhero pill that could keep their pilot’s stamina for longer periods while also improving their skills.

They soon found a few herbs and berries that were said to decrease exhaustion, thirst, and hunger and could enable them to see the soldiers better at night, and thus the concept of adaptogens was birthed.

 

How Do Adaptogens Work?

The mechanism of adaptogens after it is introduced to the body is at a cellular level. It generally helps in creating a steady balance between the endocrine glands involved in the body’s stress reaction, namely the pituitary, the adrenaline, and the hypothalamic gland.

 

They work by altering the stress response system of the body and cause a reduction of stress effects.

When our body goes into stress, it undergoes three major phases:

•     The alarm phase
•     The phase of resistance
•     The phase of exhaustion

 

One thing to keep in mind is that the stress that is being mentioned here could be any kind of stress.

If we are stimulating our body’s stress responses physically by lifting heavy weights, the immediate reaction by the body would be activation of the adrenal glands and secretion of the hormone; adrenaline.

This in turn increases the muscular ability and helps us perform better.

All this happens as the body resists the stressor to cause any harm to the body and fights against it. But soon the body gets fatigued and enters into the exhaustion phase.

What the adaptogens do is exceed the phase of resistance and help our body in increasing its endurance.

 

Adaptogens have not only been studied individually, but their effects have been studied in isolated neurons in animals as well.

Adaptogens have several effects on the body including:

•     Anti-fatigue
•     Anti-depressant 
•     Neuroprotective 
•     Stimulating effect on the central nervous system

 

 

Benefits Of Adaptogens

As we know adaptogens have a wide range of effects on the body

•     Increased endurance in situations that generally produce fatigue
•     Help in balancing and stabilizing hormone levels
•     Improved cognitive function and attention
•     Lowered disorders and symptoms induced by stress
•     Stimulation on mental performance
•     Cortisol levels in check
•     Keep the functioning of the body smooth
•     Increased stamina mentally and physically
•     A boosted immune system

 

 

 

Effectiveness of Adaptogens

Extensive researches have been carried out to test the effectiveness of adaptogens. These miracle medicinal herbs have been shown to show considerable results in the body showing symptoms associated with mental as well as physical stress.

It is known to increase attention, decrease the risk of premature fatigue, and helps in combating weakness in the body.

 

 Examples of Adaptogen Herbs

Several adaptogens have their very own effect and function when induced in the body.

 I have listed a few very common ones below:

 

1 Ashwagandha – acts as a general tonic and acts as a coping mechanism for the body against stress.

2)   Astragalus Root -they are known to protect the structures related to aging present at the end of each chromosome known as telomeres and prevent premature aging due to stress.

3)   Rhodiola Rosea – helps in lowering anxiety, depression, and fatigue

4)  Siberian Ginseng – Used to get rid of exhaustion

5) Holy Basil – to relieve anxiety and stress and to promote relaxation

6) Maca – Mood Booster and increases energy

7) Reishi – a mushroom that helps in keeping the sleep pattern on track and helps the body to adapt to stressful conditions.

8) Licorice – promotes healthy levels of adrenaline and cortisol in the body, enhances endurance, and gives a boost of energy.

 

How to Consume Adaptogens?

Supplements in the form of pills, powders, and syrups are found in many stores about Ayurveda or organic products.

You need to make sure the products you buy or use are 100% genuine and natural as mixing of these herbs can cause adverse side effects. Check for approved labels and markers on the bottle or packets of the supplements.

Consult a professional if needed.

 

Side Effects

Adaptogens tend to mix up with other drugs and OTC medications and can cause problems in the body. Always make sure to consult a professional about your medical history before taking these supplements.

 

Excessive and prolonged use of adaptogens can have a few side effects. Some people may have allergic reactions or digestive problems or some people may even get immune to the effects of the adaptogens.

 

Licorice is said to cause increased blood pressure levels and hypokalemia if taken for prolonged periods. The recommendation to consume licorice is by taking breaks between each 12-week cycle and those having hypertension or high blood pressure are advised to avoid it completely.

 

The Bottomline

Although adaptogens are promising, you can also explore other health-promoting options like diets and exercise regimes.

You could practice other stress-busting measures like yoga or meditation that could provide desired results for a longer-term.