Fighting Stress and Anxiety With Adaptogens

Feeling overwhelmed and stressed out lately? You're not alone! With the world becoming more fast-paced and demanding, it's no surprise that many of us are struggling to keep up. But what if I told you there was a simple solution to reducing your stress and anxiety levels? Enter adaptogens.

Adaptogens are a group of herbs and superfoods that have been used for centuries to help the body adapt to stress and promote overall well-being. They work by regulating our body's stress response and supporting our adrenal glands, which produce hormones like cortisol that help us manage stress.

In today's world, we have access to some of the most potent adaptogenic herbs on the planet. From ashwagandha to Rhodiola, various adaptogens on the market can effectively reduce stress and anxiety, helping you feel more relaxed and balanced in your daily life.

So why not give adaptogens a try? Incorporating these powerful herbs into your diet will give your body a world of good. Not only will you be reducing your stress levels, but you'll also be supporting your overall health and well-being. So go ahead, take the first step towards a healthier, happier you, and start exploring the best adaptogens for stress and anxiety today!

What Are Adaptogens?

Are you dealing with a stressful lifestyle? Have you heard of adaptogenic herbs? These incredible herbs are gaining popularity in the health and wellness community for good reason! They're plants and fungi that enhance an individual's resistance to stress, making the body more “adaptable” to all kinds of stressors.

Adaptogens are stress-reducing herbs that help the body balance itself in response to stress. They're used as natural remedies to help your body cope with stress and negative emotions. Each adaptogenic herb has unique characteristics that make it helpful for all types of stress, but they all share certain qualities such as anti-stress and anti-anxiety effects.

The term “adaptogenic” may be new to the Western world, but adaptogenic herbs have been used for centuries in Asian and Indian traditional medicine to combat a variety of symptoms. In fact, the term was coined by scientist Nikolai Lazarev during the 1940s when the USSR commissioned him to search for a performance-enhancing herb with pharmacological qualities to Asian Ginseng.

To be classified as a true adaptogen, an adaptogenic herb must exhibit three functions. 

• First, it must be non-toxic and safe for long-term consumption. 
• Second, it must produce a non-specific benefit and resistance to stress. Unlike many pharmaceuticals that work on only one biological pathway, adaptogens work on hundreds of biological pathways simultaneously, making them truly unique and remarkable. 
• Lastly, adaptogenic herbs must have the effect of bringing the body closer to homeostasis, back to balance, and harmonizing imbalances caused by stress.

Adaptogenic herbs contain a variety of potent compounds such as triterpenes, beta-glucans, antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids, lactones, and other polysaccharides. Their chemical makeup and structure make them incredibly unique and unlike any other herbal medicine on the planet.

Some common and well-known adaptogens for stress include Reishi Mushroom, Cordyceps mushroom, Ashwagandha root, Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero root), Holy Basil, Rhodiola, Panax Ginseng, and Schizandra berry. If you're looking to boost your immunity, the best adaptogens to try include Reishi mushroom, Cordyceps mushroom, and Rhodiola Rosea. For mood elevation, consider trying Ashwagandha root, Lion's Mane mushroom, Reishi mushroom, and Siberian Ginseng.

All adaptogenic herbs work to enhance the adaptability and resilience of the individual taking them. And, interestingly enough, adaptogens follow the doctrine of signatures. This means that these incredible herbs must grow and adapt in the harshest climates and environments in the world, from sub-arctic to desert-like conditions. The strongest survivors of these herbs possess the most potent adaptogenic qualities.

For example, Rhodiola grows wild on cliff sides hundreds of meters above sea level in Siberia, Tibet, and China. We're beginning to see the emergence of these potent adaptogen supplements within the mainstream. And in these highly stressful times, we live in, their presence could not be more welcomed! So why not try adding some adaptogenic herbs to your daily routine and see how they can help you feel more balanced and resilient?

How Stress and Fatigue Can Be Dealt With Adaptogens

Imagine feeling like you're constantly running on empty, no matter how much you sleep or how well you eat. That's what chronic stress can do to your body and mind. It's like a thief that robs us of our joy, well-being, and health. But fear not! There's a natural way to help combat the effects of chronic stress: adaptogenic herbs.

Adaptogenic herbs work by influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is the body's stress response and plays a significant role in immune regulation, digestion, metabolism, and mood. They're like a superhero for your body, restoring balance and harmony.

Acute stress is the type of stress our body-mind has evolved with. Imagine being chased by a lion - that's an example of an acute stressor. In this emergency situation, the body responds by flooding the nervous system with cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline, which switches the body into fight or flight mode.

But in modern times, stress is a constant in our everyday lives. Chronic stress happens continually when we're dealing with traffic, work deadlines, toxic relationships, financial hardships, lack of sleep, and the overconsumption of processed and nutrient-deficient foods. Over time, chronic stress leads to burnout and exhaustion.

This is where adaptogens come in. They support the HPA axis and "buffer" the stress response, blocking the release of cortisol or releasing cortisol in individuals who are chronically fatigued. They help restore proper function and bring balance back to the body. So why not give adaptogenic herbs a try and let them help you combat the effects of stress? Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Adaptogens Impacting Human Health

There's a natural solution that can help manage those symptoms without any harmful side effects. It's called adaptogens - a class of herbs that work by regulating the body's stress response and protecting it from the negative effects of chronic stress exposure.

Each adaptogen supplement is unique in its benefits, and there are a few that stand out for their effectiveness in managing stress. Take the Ashwagandha root for example. This adaptogen is known for modulating the entire HPA axis, which is responsible for regulating our stress response. By buffering the communication between the brain and adrenals, it helps balance the stress response and sympathetic activation, making it one of the best adaptogens for stress.

Siberian Ginseng is another adaptogen that works directly on the adrenals to preserve cortisol and prevent adrenal insufficiency. This is especially helpful for those who experience fatigue, chronic fatigue, and burnout. By supporting the adrenals, Siberian Ginseng helps increase energy levels and improve overall vitality.

If you're looking for an adaptogen that can protect your cells and DNA from oxidative stress, consider trying Schisandra berry. This adaptogen stimulates the expression of heat shock proteins, which are involved in cell protection. It also enhances the production of mitochondrial glutathione, our body's own master antioxidant that protects cells and DNA from damage.

By including adaptogens for stress in your diet, you can activate stress-defence mechanisms and prevent the negative effects of chronic stress exposure. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, fertility, and digestive function, and drive cellular aging. But with the help of adaptogens, you can nourish and support your HPA axis to manage stress effectively.

So don't let stress and anxiety take over your life. Try incorporating adaptogens into your daily routine and see the difference it can make in your overall well-being.

Adaptogens to Deal With Stress and Anxiety

Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress and anxiety? Don't worry, nature has got your back! Let me introduce you to the best adaptogens that can help you fight fatigue, improve your cognition and support your energy levels.

Ashwagandha Root

One of the most potent adaptogens is Ashwagandha Root. This amazing herb has been used for centuries to modulate and support the nervous system, spare the adrenals, and preserve cortisol levels. It is also rich in iron, making it a great nutritive for the body. If you're battling low energy and mental fatigue, Ashwagandha root is the perfect herb for you.

Reishi Mushroom

Another powerful adaptogen that can help reduce stress and anxiety is Reishi Mushroom. Known for its heart-opening and calming effects, Reishi mushroom nourishes the HPA axis and improves mood, anxiety, and sleep. It's a great ingredient to help you cope with stress and anxiety.

Cordyceps Mushroom

Cordyceps Mushroom is another ancient performance-enhancing tonic that can boost your nitric oxide levels and speed up the breakdown of stress hormones. Cordyceps mushroom is a great alternative to caffeine as it binds to adenosine receptors, improving your energy levels and fighting fatigue without taxing your adrenals.

Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero root)

Siberian Ginseng, also known as Eleuthero root, has been used for centuries to help athletes, entrepreneurs, students, and anyone looking to be their best selves. It's one of the top adaptogens for boosting immunity & energy, improving physical strength, stamina, and endurance. Plus, it can help you recover faster and reduce stress levels.

Rhodiola Rosea

This one is a legendary herb native to Siberia and northwest China. The Chinese even called it "The Golden Root" and sent expeditions to cultivate it. Rhodiola Rosea is a powerful adaptogen that helps reduce anxiety and stress-related disorders. But that's not all! It also boosts immunity, reduces fatigue, improves memory concentration, and promotes fast recovery from cold or flu. Plus, it increases serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, which means more energy and a better mood.

Schizandra Berry

This berry is a gentle yet powerful herb that can help regulate your body's response to stress. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting your body from the harmful effects of stress. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is believed to nourish all five organs and twelve meridians, making it a potent tonic for your entire body.

If you're struggling with mental fatigue and brain fog, Lion's Mane mushroom may be just what you need. This adaptogen has been shown in studies to boost brain function and elevate mood. Plus, it's one of the best adaptogens for anxiety, so you can feel calmer and centred in your daily life.

Pine Pollen

Lastly, Pine Pollen powder is a restorative adaptogen that provides your body with the nutrients and amino acids it needs to cope with stress. It's especially helpful for supporting healthy levels of cortisol production, which is essential for managing stress. Plus, Pine Pollen is rich in Vitamin C, which can further support your body's ability to handle stress and anxiety. Try incorporating these powerful adaptogens into your daily routine and feel more balanced, energized, and centred.

Advantages of Adaptogens

These powerful natural supplements are known for their ability to modulate the body's stress response, or what's called the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenals (HPA) axis. By doing so, adaptogens can help you combat stress and anxiety in a more effective way.

But that's not all! Adaptogens also have anti-fatigue and anxiolytic benefits that can help you feel more energised and less anxious. They are packed with key microminerals that nourish your adrenals, enhance antioxidant production, and support sleep, mood, cognition, memory, and energy.

It's important to note that each adaptogen has a unique way in which it benefits the individual taking them. For instance, some adaptogens may help restore health and vitality in those who are chronically fatigued and experiencing adrenal insufficiency.

If you're feeling wired and tired, anxious, and unable to get good quality sleep, adaptogen supplements can support and calm your nervous system that is stuck in overdrive. So why not give them a try and see the difference they can make in your life?

Incorporating Adaptogens in Your Regular Diet

Adaptogens are powerful plants and fungi that have been traditionally used for their many health benefits, and incorporating them into your daily routine could make a big difference in your well-being.

But not all adaptogen supplements are created equal, so it's important to do your due diligence to find the right product for you. At Teelixir, we've got you covered with five easy ways to include adaptogenic herbs in your diet:

• Enjoy adaptogen powders on their own in hot water to experience their full flavour profile and the many benefits they offer.
• Make an adaptogen tonic by adding adaptogenic herb powder to hot water or plant-based milk for a delicious, low-sugar, nutrient-rich beverage that's perfect for every day.
• Try adding adaptogens to your morning coffee, tea, matcha, cacao elixir, smoothie, or bone broth. The best adaptogen powders will easily dissolve in these beverages with no damage to their structure or function.
• Use adaptogenic herbs in your baking and cooking by adding the organic extract powder to baking batters, sauces, soups, stocks, broths, or salad dressings. All you need is ½ tsp of each adaptogen every day to experience its incredible benefits.
• Add adaptogens to your breakfast granola or muesli for an easy, automatic way to consume these powerful herbs every day.

Concluding

The best adaptogens for stress, anxiety, immunity, energy, and mood elevation include Ashwagandha root, Lion's Mane Mushroom, Cordyceps Mushroom, Reishi Mushroom, Siberian Ginseng, Rhodiola Rosea, Schizandra berry, and Pine Pollen. And the best part? All of these adaptogenic herbs are safe for long-term use and work to fight fatigue, reduce anxiety, boost energy and cognition, and support the nervous system.

So what are you waiting for? Incorporating adaptogenic herbs into your daily routine is an easy and effective way to support your overall health and well-being. Try Teelixir's adaptogenic herbs today and see the powerful benefits for yourself!

References

Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress—Protective Activity - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/

Feeling a little low on energy? Here's how adaptogenic herbs for energy can help - https://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/nutrition/feeling-a-little-low-on-energy-heres-how-adapt

Adaptogens for Healing Burnout — Dr Karen Wallace, ND | Dartmouth, Nova Scotia - http://drkarenwallace.com/blog-drkaren-naturopathic-dartmouth/2018/7/31/burnout-and-adaptogen-herbs

12 Best Adaptogens for Stress and Hormonal Balance — And How to Use Them - https://www.healthline.com/health/stress/smart-girls-guide-to-adaptogens#how-do-they-work

12 Best Adaptogens for Stress and Hormonal Balance — And How to Use Them - https://www.healthline.com/health/stress/smart-girls-guide-to-adaptogens#how-to-use-adaptogens

Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief by David Winston & Steven Maimes

Understanding adaptogenic herbs: new evidence on their possible effectiveness in stress-induced and aging-associated disorders from a DNA microarray study of neuroglia cells - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273615817

Adaptogens - https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/docs/Adaptogens.pdf

Written by Eliza Hedley

Eliza Hedley is an Australian-born health, mindset and abundance enthusiast obsessed with helping millennials experience living at a higher level.

Eliza's relaxed new-age approach and understanding of nutrition and wellness see her empowering and coaching individuals to understand that their health is the ultimate asset. Upon experiencing firsthand the power and place of tonic herbalism and medicinal mushrooms in everyday life, Eliza’s becomes an adaptogen fangirl and feels their utilisation in today’s world is essential for abundance and wellbeing.