Adaptogenes

In today's world, the word "adaptogen" has become increasingly familiar as people seek holistic paths and solutions.

As their name implies, adaptogens can adapt to the body's needs, bringing balance from varying physical, mental, and emotional stresses.

An interesting fact about many adaptogenic plants is that they can live in stressful conditions and have their strengths and abilities, which they impart. One of the premier and most well-known adaptogenic herbs in Ayurveda is Ashwagandha, which is highly drought-resistant and can thrive in arid conditions with low soil quality. Most plants would suffer and not survive these conditions and stresses where ashwagandha flourishes.

Russian toxicologist Nikolay Lazarev introduced the term adaptogen into scientific literature in 1957. He defined adaptogens as substances (herbal pharmaceuticals) that increase the state of non-specific resistance to stresses, strengthening the functionality of the body as a whole without impacting the balance of any individual organ or bodily system and restoring overall balance.

An adaptogenic herb's active properties must be safe, non-toxic, and non-habit-forming, even when taken for a long time. However, herbs are not meant to replace the benefits of proper diet and hydration practices or to get rest and rejuvenation.

They work at a molecular level, regulating a stable balance in the hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal glands. When we face stress, the body goes through three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. For example, when we experience a stressor, let's say, intense exercise. The body first enters the alarm stage, realizing the task/stress. The body then releases adrenaline (hormone), improving performance and increasing concentration and focus. This is the resistant phase, where we resist the stressor, which brings increased energy and clarity. Then, as we fatigue, we enter the exhaustion stage. The beauty of adaptogens is that they naturally benefit us during the resistance stage, allowing us to be effective when needed.

Some adaptogens are also referred to as tonics. Although tonics have a general effect on the entire body, they are usually thought to have more specific effects on the body's particular systems. There are unique tonics for the circulatory and heart systems as well as the digestive, glandular, and nervous systems.

There are many benefits of incorporating adaptogenic herbs and practices into your daily routine (Dinacharya). They can improve overall well-being and increase energy and immunity, which builds resistance to illness and imbalance. Additionally, they optimize organ function, reduce inflammation, improve blood sugar levels, enhance protein synthesis, improve cholesterol levels, and regulate hormones.

One of my favorite ways to build Ojas and immunity is to make an Adaptogenic lassi in the evening with oat or almond milk infused with Ashwagandha, shatavari, Rose, Turmeric, Pippali, and Licorice.

Also, an Ayurvedic favorite is an herbal jam called Chyawanprash, which has been around for thousands of years. It is made with 40 herbs and spices and is a natural adaptogenic, rejuvenator, and aphrodisiac.

Below is a list of some common adaptogens you can readily find:

Ashwagandha is the premier adaptogenic herb that boosts tolerance to stressful situations.

Eleuthero is a stimulant that improves the nervous system lowers fatigue and harmonizes.

Tulsi "Holy Basil" increases focus and mental balance and improves circulation and digestion.

Turmeric prevents aging, improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and benefits the liver.

Amalaki is a super antioxidant, enhances clarity, slows aging, and promotes immune function.

Brahmi/Gotu Kola improves concentration, intelligence, memory, and the nervous system.

Shatavari is a rejuvenative that benefits the lungs, stomach, kidneys, and reproduction.

Chyawanprash is an adaptogenic and rejuvenative jam that is energizing and boosts immunity.

Skullcap is gentle and nourishing to the nervous system and reduces tension and stress.

Passionflower relieves anxiety, tension, and restlessness and supports restful sleep.

Chamomile is a classic nervine herb that is also helpful for relieving mild daily mental stress.

Lavender is a calming herb often used in aromatherapy and body products to uplift the spirit.

Lemon Balm benefits nervous exhaustion and restlessness and brings focus and relaxation.

Moringa is nutritive and helps sleep the heart, kidneys, liver, blood, and pancreas.

Licorice is a harmonizer that supports the endocrine system and revitalizes the adrenal glands.

Maca is an immunomodulator, aphrodisiac, energy enhancer, and a nutritional powerhouse.

Reishi Mushrooms enhance immunity and reduce anxiety and depression.

Ginseng is used as a tonic to support stress response and energy and is an immunity builder.

Schisandra is an adaptogen that promotes liver health and stabilizes blood sugars.

Rhodiola is a Chinese herb that supports healthy immune system functioning.