What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are natural substances found in certain plants and mushrooms that help your body respond to stress, anxiety, and fatigue. They work by bringing your body back to a state of balance. There are dozens of adaptogens, including garlic and mushrooms, all of which can easily be added to your menu as flavorful ways to counter stress. The most common adaptogen used around the world is green tea.
Here are some common adaptogens and their benefits:
Ginger is a favorite spice, and adding its distinctive flavor to salads, stir-fry, and cookies also provides a boost to your health. Ginger aids digestion, helps fight colds and flu, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Turmeric, a close relative of ginger, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, relieving symptoms of arthritis, and is also an antioxidant, protecting the body against free radicals. Turmeric can also help with digestive issues and support overall gut health.
Garlic is a potent medicinal food, adding health benefits along with its pungent aroma and flavor. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties–so much so that it’s been called the “poor man’s penicillin.” It may also help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart attack.
Ginseng: Boosts energy and brain function and supports the immune system. This is a popular herb in Asia. American Ginseng is known for its calming effects while Asian ginseng is used for its invigorating properties. This can be steeped in hot water as a tea.
Tulsi (Holy Basil): Known for its stress relief, immune support, anti-inflammatory benefits, and neurocognitive and metabolic health benefits. Tulsi is a medicinal herb with a rich history in Ayurvedic medicine. This is often used in herbal teas.
Ashwagandha: Helps with stress and anxiety, improves sleep, and can enhance athletic performance and brain function. It is a powerful herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.
Mushrooms: Adaptogenic mushrooms are a type of mushroom that can help the body manage stress and restore balance. Lion’s mane. reishi and cordyceps are mushroom varieties with medicinal effects, including anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties.
Adaptogens can be taken in various forms, such as teas, tinctures, powders, or capsules. On a whole-food plant-exclusive diet, we prefer to avoid supplements and incorporate items such as adaptogens into our diet through food and drink. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding them to your routine, especially if you have any health conditions or are taking other medications.
