Adaptogens: What Is All Of The Hype About?

Since Gardenuity is a garden company, we feel strongly about the power of plants. We often talk about the benefits of herbs, leafy greens, and other vegetables to your mind and body. But, what about the herbs, roots, and plants that are referred to as adaptogens.

Here is the rundown on adaptogens.

What are adaptogens? 

While adaptogens have taken a spring in popularity, these powerful herbs, roots, and mushrooms have been around for centuries. According to UCLA Health and Dr. Dana Ellis Hunnes, “adaptogens can sometimes reduce our body’s reaction to stress and help us adapt to stressors better.” 

The Cleveland Clinic explains that in order for an organism to be considered adaptogenic, it must be “non-toxic when taken in normal doses, help your body cope with stress, and allow your body to return to balance.”

WebMD-“Adaptogens are certain herb or mushrooms thought to have health benefits. Manufacturers who use them in products claim they have a variety of perks, including helping you deal with stress. They’re sold as teas, tinctures, powders you add to food, and capsules.

The theory behind adaptogens says they help your body adjust to physical, chemical, or biological stress. They’re thought to stimulate your body’s stress-protection response and help its systems return to a balanced state called “homeostasis.”

As promising as that may sound, we need more research on adaptogens and their possible health benefits.”

How do you use adaptogens?

Adaptogens can be taken in supplements, capsules, or consumed in powder form. Powder forms are becoming increasingly popular as they can be an additive to smoothies, soups, coffee, or tea. 

Luckily for us, we do not have to go scavenge for functional herbs, roots, or mushrooms these days. There are countless brands that offer supplements for functional, adaptogenic medicine. Brands such as Rainbo, Mudwtr, and Pow have adaptogenic offerings in the form of matcha, powders, and droplets. 

As with any change in your diet, talk to your doctor before you try an adaptogen product or any new supplement, especially if you have a health condition. Your doctor will let you know if it could affect your health or interact with medicines you take. “The FDA doesn’t regulate supplements as strictly as drugs, so it’s important to get your doctor’s OK.” WebMD

What are the benefits of adaptogens?

Different adaptogens are known to have different benefits. Generally, adaptogens are a beneficial aid to deal with stressors throughout your life. However, these powerful plants can perform different duties depending on what the mind and body need. 

There are over 70 types of herbal plants that are considered adaptogens.  Here are a few  that have been linked to stress relief:

Ashwagandha- Early research suggests it may help against aging, and anxiety.

Holy Basil-This queen of herbs has been used for everything from colds, sore throats, and scorpion bites.

Wild yam- often used to regulate female hormone levels

Bacopa Monnieri- Often taken to help improve cognitive function.

The power of plants is moving into a larger realm of awareness and adoption. Gardenuity will continue to lead the effort to bring the mindful and physical benefits of plants and gardening to elevate people’s lives.