Adaptogens - Getting to know these multi-tasking herbs

The use of adaptogenic herbs in traditional medicine is far from new, however the concept and understanding of adaptogens and how they work has been ever-evolving.

The word adaptogen came from Russia during the 1970s, as they trialled ways to help their astronauts and athletes perform better under stress.  They began to look to Rhodiola, Siberian & Panax Ginseng, and Schisandra to help the body build resilience and learn how to adapt. 

Of course, this was not a new use for these herbs.  Their holistic benefits to the convalescing and fatigued had been seen in many traditional health systems for hundreds of years. 

It has been found that adaptogens have a unique action that mimics a mild dose of stress on the nervous system which, when taken long-term, can help the body to better return to balance in the face of stress.  This can be useful for defence against all types of stress; exercise, temperature, mental stress, sleep deprivation, illness and environmental toxins. Higher doses have shown to suppress inflammation and prevent premature aging.

Adaptogens’ stress-reducing actions have been shown to help regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, reducing cortisol and nitric oxide levels.  When we can reduce the effects of chronic stress, we can then reduce the risk of stress-related diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, depression, poor memory and chronic fatigue.

Many of the adaptogenic herbs also have tonic properties, so they are useful to help to rebuild and regenerate following illness or hard times, while also supporting a balanced immune response.  They have protective qualities for the brain, heart, liver and digestive system.

The beauty of herbs is that they often have multiple actions on the body, so while all adaptogenic herbs help to regulate our stress response, each has additional properties or affinities with particular body systems.

Astragalus helps to regulate an under- or over-active immune system, and is particularly useful against viruses.  It can help to improve digestion and heart function.

Panax Ginseng is great for fatigue as it is stimulating; improving stamina and mental alertness. 

Ashwagandha is calming, so is valuable for nervous exhaustion, anxiety or insomnia. 

Rhodiola can help to increase dopamine levels, making it valuable to reduce cravings in addictions.

Schisandra can support healthy liver function and detoxification, along with being restorative for the brain.

Holy Basil (Tulsi) can help reduce physical fatigue from exercise, while also reducing anxiety. 

We have a range of adaptogenic supplements and herbal teas available in the store.  Some products offer a combination of these herbs, which have been shown to have synergistic effects greater than the individual herbs.

It should be noted that adaptogenic herbs are not a fast-acting remedy, so it may take over two months for their actions to slowly make changes for the long term.

If you are interested in using adaptogenic herbs, we can help to advise on their use, dosage and safety advice with other medications. Please get in touch.

Resources:

Evolution of the adaptogenic concept from traditional use to medical systems: Pharmacology of stress- and aging-related diseases.  https://doi.org/10.1002/med.21743 

The effect of adaptogenic plants on stress: a systematic review and meta-analysis.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2023.105695