Stress Reducing Adaptogens explained!
Ever heard of the word adaptogen herbs? If you are like many people, you probably have not. So what are they exactly?
Adaptogen herbs are a special type of herb which enhances the resistance of human body under a wide variety of external stress conditions [1]. These stresses can range from [2]
- Physiological stress
- Anti-Fatigue
- Anti-depressive
- Enhanced Attention & memory
- Neuro-protection
- Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulation
Reducing stress is the most common reason why many people are so interested in Adaptogens because let’s face it, there is no better time than investing in Adaptogen herbs in a world of stress, high pressured positions and a multitude of external factors.
How Adaptogens Work?
Adaptogens work on the adrenal glands on the body, the stress hormone producing gland. When you are chronically stressed or exposed to high levels of continuous stress, your adrenal glands may be overworking themselves which can lead to muscle wastage, hyperglycemia, suppressed immune or inflammatory responses which we do not want [2].
Worst case scenario, your adrenal glands may be fatigued leading to more problems of tiredness, insomnia, difficulty waking up in the morning, unexplained weight loss, reliance on stimulants like caffeine, digestive problems and cravings for salt and sugar.
By using Adaptogens regularly helps your adrenals secrete a little stress hormone (which you need to be motivated) and abolishing excess hormone production [2]. If you take Adaptogens in a relaxed state where your adrenals are not producing cortisol, they may be able to completely close the gland. It is therefore best to take Adaptogens in the morning when your cortisol is at its peak [2].
Furthermore, adaptogens can increase cellular energy levels and prevent oxidative damage, leading to the maintenance of normal adrenal function [2].
Where to Buy from?
As like all supplements, Adaptogens should be purchased from a trusted vendor who is able to show proof of testing and manufacturing/packing their products in a GMP environment.
Also, ensure you’re purchasing standardised herbal extracts which are herbs which have been extracted in a certain way to ensure you are getting the full benefits.
Another thing to watch out for is that the product you are purchasing has a therapeutic dose of the adaptogen in each serve to get the stress reducing benefits and everything it comes with.
Some examples of Adaptogens:
- Rhodiola rosea
- Dosage = 500mg/day
- Standardised to Rosavins/Salidrosides
- Vendors: Head Honcho Supplements
- Withania (Ashwagandha)
- Dosage = 600mg/day
- Standardised to Withanolides
- Vendors: Nootropic Depot
- Siberian Ginseng
- Dosage = 400 - 500mg/day
- Standardised to Eleutheroside E
- Vendors: NOW
So if you are thinking of making the switch to Adaptogen herbs, it is a great way to deal with your daily stress and enable you to perform at a higher level, especially in today’s high pressured and fast paced environment! Good Luck!
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