What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens have long been used to combat stress, promote faster recovery, and increase energy levels. Adaptogens help your body adapt to any biological and psychological stress and make it easier to balance your hormonal systems. They can also combat such issues like fatigue, infertility, and even impotence.

Adaptogens are ideal if you want more energy, focus, strength, and a better mood. Though they have been around for thousands of years, scientists are now discovering the true potential of adaptogens and how they are able to increase your energy levels and help handle stress better. 

However, the benefits of using adaptogens goes beyond better energy levels and less stress. Some of the benefits adaptogens include: 

  • Aiding sufferers of neurodegenerative diseases
  • Improving memory formation
  • Lowering cortisol levels
  • Boosting of the immune system
  • Promotes cancer cell apoptosis

Common Adaptogen Supplements You Can Use

There are a handful of adaptogens available in vitamin and health food stores. If you find a supplement that you are considering for daily use and is not available in a physical store location, you can always find it online at an affordable price.  Here are some adaptogenic supplements that you can use to improve your overall health, energy and stress levels:

  • Ashwagandha Extracts: Ashwagandha is one of the most common adaptogens used today. In Ayurvedic practices, ashwagandha is used for reducing stress and to bring the body back into a state of balance. Use of ashwagandha was also linked to a decrease in cortisol levels. Of course, cortisol is the hormone that causes…you guessed it, stress. Memory improvement has also been linked to the use of this adaptogen. Ashwagandha can typically be found in a capsule form. It is also available in a powder form that can easily be mixed into a drink that can be helpful in reducing stress.
  • Chaga: Chaga is a mushroom that is grown on birch trees and appears to resemble a clump of dirt. It is said that people who live in various regions of Russia have used this for adaptogenic purposes for centuries. Chaga is known for its medicinal purposes, promoting cellular health. In cancer patients, it is also proven to cause cancer cell apoptosis or killing the cells. 

In a 2016 study on mice, Chaga was proven to suppress tumor growth in such cancers like liver, breast, and lung cancers. The supplement is also able to interact positively with the body during chemotherapy. Chaga supplements are available and can also be used in teas and tinctures. 

There are other mushrooms that hold great health benefits. Mushrooms have been used in many cultures for their health benefits as well as healing.

  • Maca: This adaptogen is originated from Andean region of South America. This is known for its ability to increase sex drive and fertility. In multiple studies, Maca was proven to increase libido in both men and women.

    Those who have erectile dysfunction or sexual dysfunction brought on by antidepressants have also experienced an increase in libido and desire. This also has been linked to an increase in sperm count in men, while women have seen an increase in hormonal balance that can support the regulation of their cycle.

Conclusion

Adaptogens are great for daily use to improve your overall health. Before starting a regimen, you should consider whether it may cause adverse effects if you take any medication or other supplements that aid in supporting your daily health.