Adaptogens 101 – What You Need to Know

Maintaining the health of our bodies is important, but what about when we’re feeling less energetic or having trouble recovering from daily stressors? Improving your body’s natural balance can be as simple as incorporating adaptogens into your lifestyle.

What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are herbs and mushrooms that support our bodies in reacting to or recovering from short and long-term physical or mental stress. Some Adaptogens are also known to boost immunity and overall well-being.¹1

Where Does the Term Adaptogen Come From?

The word “adaptogen” was first coined in the 1950s. Still, medicinal practices using these herbs can be traced back to 3000 B.C., when they were used by Ancient Chinese and Ayurveda professionals as a way of protecting against stress-related illnesses such as anxiety or insomnia.

Russian toxicologist Nikolay Lazarev helped shape the concept of adaptogens we know today and how they protect our bodies against various stressors.

Are Adaptogens Safe?

A 2010 study conducted by researchers at the Swedish Herbal Institute for Research and Development found that “adaptogens have a significant, beneficial and specific effect on stress-induced symptoms under fatigue.” The study also determined that “the most convincing evidence of the efficacy of adaptogens were found in studies related to its effects on cognitive function and mental performance, and on its efficacy in asthenia and depression.”

Some studies have shown that pregnant women should steer clear away from adaptogens, and not all are suitable for child consumption. It’s always best to check with your doctor before introducing adaptogens into your routine.

How Do Adaptogens Work?

When we face a stressor, whether physical or mental, our bodies go through what’s called general adaptation syndrome (GAS).

GAS is a three-stage response: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Sound familiar?

Adaptogens help us stay in the resistance phase longer by a stimulating effect that holds off the impending fatigue. Instead of crashing amid a stressful moment, task, or event, adaptogens help us find stability to soldier on.

In turn, adaptogens can help us perform better and feel better despite what’s stressing us out, improving our health and well-being. ²2

What Are the Most Popular Adaptogens?

There are many adaptogens out there – but here are the most popular ones found in RISE Botanicals!

Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is one of the essential herbs in Ayurveda, an ancient form of alternative medicine based on Indian principles. Due to its recent popularity in western culture, it’s likely you already know it as an adaptogen! Ashwagandha is known to help maintain energy, boost immunity, and improve daily stress management.

Holy Basil “tulsi”: Holy Basil is not your typical type of herb. You won’t find it in pesto or Thai green curry! This herb has a delicious hot, peppery taste and is a sacred plant in Hindu belief. Holy Basil is known to improve digestive stress management.

Reishi Mushrooms: Eastern medicine uses many plants and fungi, but none are more popular than reishi mushrooms! Several molecules found within, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and peptidoglycans, may be responsible for its health effects. Reishi is known to be a neuroprotector and helps to protect cells from free radicals.

How Can You Add Adaptogens into Your Daily Routine?

Incorporating adaptogens into your routine is rather straightforward – chances are you already have some throughout your day!

Use Supplements

The adaptogens are a great way to help you get back on your feet if you feel the need to rebalance. Always follow the instructions on the label, and if you have any questions, it’s best to speak with your doctor before incorporating them into your routine.

Eat Adaptogen-Rich Food

Wondering how to feed your body with adaptogens? There are a plethora of sources out in nature that you can use. For example, turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic spice that adds excellent flavour and restorative properties when used in stir-fries and curries.

Drink RISE Botanicals

Here’s a no-brainer if you want to make adaptogens a part of your daily habits: drink RISE Botanicals, an adaptogenic beverage made for Canadians who wish to bring balance to their day. Discover our delicious flavours, Renew, Focus, Boost and Relax, today!

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/stress/smart-girls-guide-to-adaptogens#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/stress/smart-girls-guide-to-adaptogens#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1