Herbs and Spices That Fight Stress
It’s time to add a new term to your
wellness dictionary - adaptogens. These powerful herbs and roots will
help you cope with outside stressors, be it rainy weather or a stressful
day. Practitioners say they really work, and they might be especially
helpful for you in the gloomy transitional fall weather. Continue
reading for more in-depth information about adaptogens and to find out
which ones can help you fight the fall or winter blues.
Coping with stress is one of the key functions of the human body, and
usually, the body is very apt at reducing stress levels with the help of
hormones. However, transitional weather can take a toll on the body’s
immunity and its ability to adapt to stressors. Enter adaptogens, i.e.
herbs, roots, mushrooms, and spices that resisted the challenge of time
and were selected for their ability to boost immunity, fight fatigue,
and reduce stress.
Adaptogens have been used for generations in Chinese medicine and
Ayurveda, and only recently they were introduced to the Western world,
but with great success. For example, our old friends ginger and turmeric
both started off as adaptogens, but are widely used all over the world
today, both for their pleasant taste and healing properties.
The image below lists several popular adaptogens.
Some adaptogens were already proven to be
effective in an experimental setting, such as chaga, shiitake mushrooms,
holy basil, turmeric, ginger, and lion’s mane, while others are yet to
be approved by scientific research. Both holistic practitioners and
scientists agree, however, that adaptogens are unable to cure chronic
medical conditions, but rather, they are a support team for your body’s
immune system.
That is why it is important to consult your doctor before you decide to
take adaptogens, especially if you are on some kind of medication.
Though each adaptogen has its specific effect, they are often combined
into mixtures. Some of these substances can be added to foods as herbs
and spices, while others can be brewed into herbal teas or added into
smoothies.
Here is a useful list of some common adaptogens that target a specific
concern.
Stress and Anxiety: ashwagandha, licorice root, holy basil
Ashwagandha, holy basil, and licorice root
are all Ayurvedic herbs. The first is used to regain the balance of the
immune system after being sick, but also to normalize stress levels.
Holy basil (tulsi) was shown to reduce stress levels in a study. In
Ayurveda, it is also known for promoting digestive health. Licorice root
has a calming effect on the body.
All three herbs can be consumed in teas or other drinks, while holy
basil can be eaten raw as part of a meal.
Fatigue: ginseng or maca root
Ginseng will increase your energy levels and cognitive abilities, but it
will also boost your immune system. Maca root is a sweet powder that
can be added to smoothies, hot drinks, and desserts. Its alternative
name is Peruvian ginseng, so just like ginseng, it will make you feel
less tired and more energetic, with a bonus of promoting your immunity.
Ginseng will increase your energy levels and cognitive abilities, but it
will also boost your immune system. Maca root is a sweet powder that
can be added to smoothies, hot drinks, and desserts. Its alternative
name is Peruvian ginseng, so just like ginseng, it will make you feel
less tired and more energetic, with a bonus of promoting your immunity.Low immunity: maca root, ginseng, Chaga, and ashwagandha
The information about maca, ginseng, and
ashwagandha can be found in the previous sections. Chaga is a mushroom
native to Siberia that has shown studies to have antiviral and
immunity-boosting properties, plus it’s good for your skin as well. It
is usually manufactured in a powder form and can be added to foods and
drinks as a supplement.
How to Take Adaptogens
As we mentioned above, adaptogens come in a
variety of forms and can be added to foods or brewed into teas.
However, if you’re not a fan of teas or spicy foods, you can take them
in capsule form, much like you would a dietary supplement.
Needless to say, it’s key to follow the recommended dose you’ll find on
the product’s packaging, as overdosing may be dangerous, even though
adaptogens are generally safe. Also, make sure to take a specific
adaptogen at the correct time of the day. For example, it’s best to take
energizing herbs, such as maca root, in the morning, as taking them in
the evening may make you sleepless.
Soothing and calming adaptogens, on the other hand, such as tulsi, work
best in the evenings or even right before bed to help you fall asleep
faster. It’s recommended to take adaptogens for a period ranging from a
few days to a few weeks, and then discontinue the treatment, as
adaptogens are not intended to treat chronic stress or fatigue and
should be a temporary solution to stress.