Adaptogens are special herbs, plant roots, and mushrooms that are known to help the body respond more efficiently to stress. While they cannot remove the environmental factors that cause stress in the first place, they can strengthen the body’s ability to handle them more effectively, thus creating a healthier homeostasis overall.
Not only do adaptogens help manage physical and mental strain caused by everyday life, but an increasing body of evidence indicates that this group of plants may also help improve mental clarity and cognitive function.
In addition, adaptogens have long been associated with helping both men and women balance their hormones so as to support improved health outcomes related to fertility and maintaining normal body weight.
Unlike medications and supplements which tend to target individual processes in one direction or another, adaptogens work by modulating naturally occurring biochemical processes at the cellular level – resulting in holistic – rather than isolated – benefits for those who take them.
This article will discuss 13 different types of adaptogens, what conditions they are used for, and how best to ingest them (either powdered, extract, or capsule form).
Whether you’re looking for better support with your hormones or improved immunity against environmental toxins, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about using adaptogenic herbs for optimal health.
What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are special herbs, mushrooms, and roots that help the body cope with physical, mental, and emotional stresses. They have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine practices to support “adaptability” and balance in the body.
They are termed “adaptogenic” because they function to help the body adapt to change through balancing hormones. Some of the most common adaptogens you may have heard about include ashwagandha, maca root powder, ginseng, rhodiola rosea (“golden root”), Siberian ginseng, holy basil (tulsi), astragalus root, Reishi mushroom, Schizandra berry (five-flavor berry), Gymnema sylvestre leaves (“gurmar herb”), Cordyceps sinensis mushroom (Cordyceps tea), moringa oleifera leaf (also known as Horseradish tree or drumshear ), Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum or Southern ginseng).
Adaptogens work with multiple systems of the body including the adrenal glands to regulate hormones like cortisol or thyroid hormone production or utilization. Adaptogenic herbs do not directly act on hormones; instead, they increase our cells’ capacity to produce balanced amounts of hormones naturally by reducing stress levels and strengthening our immune system.
In terms of hormone balance adaptogens can positively impact thyroid hormone production and utilization via the regulation of enzymes that stimulate conversion from T4 thyroxine into T3 liothyronine as well as improving energy levels by aiding adrenal gland activity rather than hindering it as other stimulants do.
Many adaptogens also contain powerful antioxidants which work at a cellular level to protect from damage caused by free radicals and aging processes
Benefits of Adaptogens
Adaptogens have been used for centuries by traditional medicine practitioners to balance hormones, improve overall health, and boost energy. They are natural substances that help the body adapt to physical and mental stress. They can also help to boost metabolism, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve overall well-being.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of adaptogens and some of the top adaptogens for hormone balance and weight loss.
Improved Stress Response
Adaptogens are a unique class of plants, herbs, and fungi that help the body adapt to physical and mental stress. By improving well-being, providing a better response to stress, enhancing endurance, and improving focus, adaptogen supplementation may increase overall productivity and quality of life.
Adaptogen use has been studied for decades in countries across the world for its potential to improve mental and physical performance as well as support health. Research suggests that adaptogens can help improve our bodies’ response to stress by working on several levels: by decreasing the production of stress hormones like cortisol; by acting on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis); and at a cellular level.
This can result in improved impulse control, better emotional regulation, increased clarity of thought, and relief from chronic fatigue.
By calming an over-active sympathetic nervous system (SNS) – often associated with heightened states of anxiety – adaptogens may also reduce levels of cortisol which has been linked with depression. Furthermore, research suggests that regular users may also lead to improved sleep quality through enhanced serotonin production which helps us attain more restful nights of sleep.
Overall, supplementing with adaptogenic herbs has been shown to provide improved support for our body’s overall stress response – both mentally and physically – leading to enhanced focus, increased productivity within work or study environments as well as reduced fatigue levels overall.
Improved Cognitive Function
Adaptogens are natural compounds found in certain plant species that have been used for centuries in traditional folk medicine. Today, more and more scientific research is being conducted to determine the possible benefits of adaptogenic herbs. Some preliminary studies suggest that certain adaptogens may help improve cognitive function, including learning, memory, and neuroprotection.
Research suggests that bacopa monnieri can help enhance cognitive performance. This ancient herb is thought to work by reducing inflammation levels in the brain and modulating key neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and acetylcholine. Studies also show that bacopa monnieri can protect neurons against oxidative stress and enhance their function.
Another promising study suggests that Rhodiola Rosea may help protect the brain from stress-induced damage caused by chronic exposure to cortisol. In animal models, this herb improved learning ability, memory formation/retention/recollection as well as reduced amyloid plaque and glycogen deposition (a sign of Alzheimer’s).
Furthermore, researchers have also reported improved long-term potentiation-LTP (a major component of learning) after the administration of Rhodiola Rosea extracts in animal models.
Lastly, ashwagandha has been shown to improve cognitive function by acting on two components – physical performance enhancement and neural restoration/protection from potential damage associated with stress or aging. The data from human clinical trials suggest ashwagandha may enhance memory retention as well as improve attention span when compared to a placebo group.
Animal studies have also indicated improved short-term memory presumably via enhancement of synaptic plasticity following administration of ashwagandha extract treatment.
Improved Hormonal Balance
Adaptogens have been scientifically proven to help restore balance to the body and promote physiological resilience in several ways. The potential benefits of adaptogens include improved hormonal balance, stronger immunity, better digestive health, decreased anxiety and stress levels, improved cognitive function, emotional stability, and enhanced athletic performance.
Correcting hormonal imbalances can be particularly beneficial for women going through various stages of their life. Menopausal women often use adaptogens to reduce hot flashes and night sweats caused by changes in hormone levels.
As adaptive foods work physiologically with the endocrine system to bring about a balanced state known as homeostasis, this makes them ideal for pre-menopausal women who consider herbal adaptogen supplements or powders to prevent any future changes related to hormones.
Other excellent adaptogens capable of balancing hormones are Ashwagandha, Tongkat Ali extract, Mucuna Pruriens (the velvet bean), Salvia (sage) miltiorrhiza, and Rhodiola Rosea. Ashwagandha is said to enhance fertility by regulating steroid production and increasing libido in both men and women.
Tongkat Ali extract helps increase stamina while Mucuna Pruriens is thought to help boost dopamine production which contributes to feelings of pleasure in the body and increases libido in both sexes; it has also been used traditionally for centuries as a natural remedy for testosterone-related issues like infertility or impotence.
Improved Metabolism
Adaptogens, such as ashwagandha and Rhodiola Rosea, help the body regulate stress hormones like cortisol and improve metabolism. Proper metabolic function is important for our overall health. When our metabolism is off balance, we can experience a range of symptoms such as fatigue, weight fluctuations, depression, mood swings, and an overall lack of vitality.
Adaptogenic herbs work by altering physiological pathways within the body to maintain homeostasis or balance. This helps increase energy production in the cells through cytoprotection, which increases energy levels.
The combination of increased energy and lower levels of stress hormones helps the body’s metabolic rate stabilize so that food is broken down properly and nutrients are absorbed more efficiently. Thus adaptogens can help reduce fat accumulation by regulating hormonal balance and resetting metabolic processes like glucose absorption.
By improving metabolism through adaptogens, the body can maintain optimal function across many bodily functions such as heart rate regulation and digestion, resulting in improved overall health. Additionally, improved metabolism can aid in weight loss or management by helping to maintain healthier eating habits while increasing energy levels.
Adaptogens for Hormone Balance
Adaptogens are a unique class of plants containing beneficial compounds that help your body cope with stress. They can help your body modulate hormonal responses, help increase energy, and promote weight loss.
If you’re looking for a way to balance your hormones and achieve a healthy weight, consider adding some adaptogens to your diet. In this article, we’ll discuss 13 of the most effective adaptogens for hormone balance and weight loss.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that is widely used as an ayurvedic herbal supplement due to its many health benefits, such as hormone balance, increased energy levels, and a reduction in anxiety. It has traditionally been used as an anti-inflammatory, a general tonic for the body and mind, and can help to regulate cortisol levels in the body to fight against stress.
Ashwagandha helps to improve endocrine health by boosting thyroid hormones and the production of sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. In addition, ashwagandha’s active component (withanolides) exerts anti-malignant effects on cells in the body and has been linked to reduced tumor growth.
As a result of its antioxidant properties, ashwagandha has also been found to help reduce oxidative stress linked with metabolic diseases such as diabetes or obesity. Furthermore, it increases Adenosine Monophosphate (AMP) activity which promotes metabolism and weight loss processes in the body.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to help the body adapt and respond more effectively to mental, physical, and environmental stress. It is primarily used as an anti-fatigue agent but has also been shown to help balance hormones and enhance mood.
Rhodiola Rosea works by promoting balance in the body’s stress response by modulating hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, helping the individual better manage emotions, reduce anxiety and improve concentration.
Studies have also shown that Rhodiola Rosea may also help prevent cortisol fluctuations due to changing seasonal light cycles or long-lasting periods of stress. Rhodiola Rosea can also aid in the maintenance of healthy sex hormone levels, which in turn can lead to enhanced energy, improved libido, and better overall well-being.
In addition to its beneficial effects on hormone balance and mood regulation, Rhodiola Rosea has shown encouraging results with cognitive performance and memory retention. Studies have indicated that it may be especially effective in improving mental clarity during prolonged periods of work or lack of sleep by improving focus as well as reducing fatigue caused by burnout or overwork.
Rhodiola Rosea has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes spanning a range of cultures from Europe to Asia. Today it is available commercially in capsule form, often combined with other herbs that promote hormonal balance such as ashwagandha or ginseng for enhanced effectiveness.
If you are looking for a natural way to keep your hormones balanced, Rhodiola Rosea might be just what you need!
Holy Basil
Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is an adaptogen that has been used for hundreds of years in Ayurvedic medicine. It is typically brewed into a tea and has been valued for its many medicinal properties, such as improved immune function and reduced stress levels. It helps boost energy levels and promotes hormone balance in men and women.
Holy Basil also has antioxidant compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body which can lead to weight loss. Its calming effects can help reduce cravings while promoting better digestion and metabolism. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before adding any adaptogens to your diet.
Maca
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root vegetable native to the high-altitude plateaus of the Andes. The Incas have been eating maca for centuries, and it has since gained popularity in the Western world for its variety of health benefits. In particular, maca is often used to balance hormones, due to its ability to stimulate an increase in sex hormone production.
Maca improves hormone balance by acting as an adaptogen. It helps the body adjust physiologically and psychologically to stress and hormone fluctuations by increasing resilience. This increase in healing power can influence lymphocytes, macrophages, and natural killer cells which are responsible for maintaining sexual health.
In addition to helping manage hormone imbalance caused by stress, maca increases the production of certain sex hormones in both sexes. Maca can raise estrogen levels; this rise creates improved sexual desire that can be beneficial for women going through menopause or premenstrual syndromes (PMS).
For men experiencing low testosterone or libido problems, maca intake can enhance testosterone production and reduce symptoms such as physical tiredness or impotence.
When looking for a supplement that supports hormonal balance talk to your doctor about integrating maca into your daily routine. It is important to note that while numerous studies suggest supportive effects of using maca; research is still underway concerning possible side effects and long-term effects on health resulting from regular consumption of maca root supplements
Schisandra
Schisandra, also known as Chinese Magnolia Vine or Wu Wei Zhu, is an adaptogen that provides hormone balance. It originates in Northern China and neighboring regions of Eastern Asia and is becoming increasingly popular in the Western world. Schisandra is known for its ability to combat fatigue, and stress and improve energy levels.
Some of the active ingredients found in Schisandra berries have been linked to positive hormonal effects. This includes saponins and lignans, which are compounds believed to act as estrogen receptor agonists.
They are thought to mimic the effect of estrogen on estrogen receptors, which promotes healthy hair growth, regulates menstruation, and lowers symptoms of menopause among women. Lignans are also rich in antioxidants that can fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.
Schisandra’s medicinal uses date back thousands of years. In traditional Chinese medicine, it was used as a remedy for digestive issues like nausea or diarrhea. It has also been used in alleviating symptoms associated with liver disorders such as hepatitis B or C along with other chronic illnesses like diabetes or detoxification from drugs or alcohol abuse.
Additionally, Schisandra has been used to treat insomnia by calming an overstimulated nervous system, and anxiety due to its calming properties and improve digestion by increasing bile production for better fat absorption, along with stimulating appetite for foods rich in vitamins and minerals needed for hormone balance*.
In recent years there has been an increase in awareness about the importance of hormone balance for overall health and wellbeing1. With rising popularity recognize the need for adaptogens that can be used safely alongside prescribed medications and complementary treatments if needed.*
Adaptogens for Weight Loss
Adaptogens are plants, herbs, roots, and mushrooms that can help balance the body’s hormones and restore the body’s natural ability to adapt to stress. Adaptogens can be used to help with many issues such as fatigue, poor sleep, low mood, and weight loss. In this article, we’ll talk about 13 adaptogens you can use to help with your weight loss goals.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a popular adaptogen that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its wide range of therapeutic properties. This root derives from plants belonging to the genus Panax and it can be consumed in several forms, from tea to powder to supplement formulation.
When it comes to weight loss, ginseng can help increase metabolism, which leads to increased energy and potentially more calories burned during the day. It can also support blood sugar regulation, which helps maintain balanced energy levels throughout the day.
Additionally, ginseng helps reduce stress hormones such as cortisol which are associated with weight gain and belly fat accumulation. And finally, ginseng can improve mood and help someone stay motivated on their weight loss journey.
In summary, by helping regulate hormones and metabolize fat more efficiently, ginseng can be an effective part of a successful weight-loss protocol to support healthy lifestyle changes and habits.
Licorice Root
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a common adaptogen employed in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It has been used to treat many diseases such as liver and digestive issues, menopausal hot flashes, fatigue, depression, itching skin, and edema (water retention).
Licorice root also helps to naturally balance hormones due to its high concentration of glycyrrhizin. This can help restore cortisol levels while improving energy levels and mental clarity.
Licorice root functions as an anti-inflammatory agent that may help reduce visceral fat in the abdominal area and lead to weight loss. It has a sweet flavor when taken as a dried herb or used as an extract in capsules, teas, or powders. Choosing the right licorice product is important; look for organic sources that contain at least 3-6% glycyrrhizin for desired efficacy of the product.
For weight loss purposes, consuming no more than 500 mg per day is recommended — too much can be dangerous! Consult your healthcare provider before using herbal supplements or if you have any medical conditions.
Tribulus
Tribulus is an herb that has been used for centuries as an Ayurvedic tonic for men’s health and libido, but it also has benefits for anyone interested in regulating hormones and losing weight. Tribulus is thought to raise testosterone levels in the body, which can result in increased muscle mass and improved mood and energy.
Furthermore, Tribulus can help reduce cortisol levels—an important hormone associated with chronic stress. When cortisol levels are balanced, there may be a decrease in fat storage and an increased ability to reach a healthy weight or maintain one.
Additionally, Tribulus can help balance female hormones by potentially reducing symptoms of PMS or menopause such as irritability or hot flashes. To get the most out of Tribulus supplementation, look for a supplement that contains at least 500 mg of extract per capsule. Because of its powerful effects on hormones, it is best to have your hormone levels monitored while taking Tribulus.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi mushrooms, sometimes referred to as Ganoderma lucidum, are a type of adaptogenic mushroom found in Asia. This powerful medicinal mushroom is considered an important herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used for over 4,000 years for health and longevity.
Research has shown that Reishi mushrooms can help improve immune functioning, balance hormones, and may even help with weight loss.
Studies have demonstrated that the polysaccharides found in Reishi can help reduce inflammation and support healthy detoxification processes by promoting the activities of phase 1 and 2 enzymes in the kidneys. These detoxifying processes can aid weight loss by breaking down fat cells more efficiently.
In addition to detoxification support, Reishi mushrooms contain antioxidants called triterpenes which protect against cell damage caused by free radicals.
This can significantly improve your metabolism which helps regulate your hormones leading to better control of appetite cravings as well as improved digestion processes related to food absorption such as lowering cholesterol levels or improving intestinal flora balance.
Finally, Reishi mushrooms contain many components including ganoderic acids A, B & C that are known for their beneficial effects on reducing stress hormones like cortisol (also referred to as “the stress hormone”) which can be beneficial for weight loss since stressed out people tend to crave unhealthy food items more often than non-stressed individuals due to hormonal imbalances that frequently accompany lingering high-level of stress .
Additionally, managing stress levels tends to improve sleep quality significantly which is also very beneficial in fostering healthier metabolic patterns related to hormones as well as helping with overall bodyweight management goals.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a type of mushroom believed to help balance hormones, boost energy levels and increase the body’s ability to fight stress – all of which can support weight loss. This superfood is composed of a fungus that thrives on certain caterpillars found in the Himalayas.
It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine as an immunity booster and for its stimulating effects on the body.
Studies show Cordyceps reduces fatigue, increases athletic performance, and boosts energy levels. It may also help with weight management, due to its natural effect on metabolism, by allowing cells to absorb glucose better thus improving energy production and leading to lesser cravings for carbohydrates.
Additionally, this adaptogen may also work on fat-burning hormones such as leptin and ghrelin – crucial substances that have a direct effect on your metabolism’s rate of calorie burning and fat storage functions.
Ultimately, Cordyceps may offer an array of benefits when it comes to weight loss by providing hormone balance that leads to proper metabolic functioning – a key factor when looking to shed excess pounds. People considering the use of Cordyceps for weight loss or any other purpose should consult their doctor first before doing so.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that adaptogens are powerful substances capable of providing a wide range of health benefits, including improving hormone balance, reducing stress, and regulating appetite for better weight control.
By understanding how to combine these unique ingredients and add them to your daily routine, you will be able to take full advantage of the wide range of effects these adaptogens have to offer.
While adapting herbs such as Ashwagandha, Maca root, and Rhodiola Rosea can provide a number of benefits for hormone balance and weight loss, it is important to remember that including them in your diet is only one part of the puzzle. Maintaining a balanced diet alongside regular exercise and getting adequate rest are all integral for achieving superior health overall.
