Adaptogens
We’ve talked about stress and adrenal support through lifestyle approaches and something like an adrenal cocktail. Now let’s talk about adaptogens that may help as well. As always this is for informational purposes only. Speak with your provider before starting any new medication/supplement.
As I mentioned a few posts back the release of the hormone cortisol happens in response to stress, but continued elevated cortisol levels over long periods of time in addition to chronic stress can lead to hormone imbalances, cardiovascular disorders and weaken our immune system. Eventually over time our cortisol levels may bottom out causing a slew of symptoms as well.
Adaptogens are herbal medicines that help increase the body’s resistance to physical, environmental, emotional or biological stressors. Think of them as another tool in the toolbox not the master fixer. Optimal health takes work and as always focus on the “basics”.
What is your favorite adaptogen?
𝗔𝗗𝗔𝗣𝗧𝗢𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗦
• Andrographis paniculata (andrographis)
• Asparagus racemosus (shatavari)
• Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus)
• Atractylodes macrocephala (atractylodes)
• Bacopa monnieri (bacopa)
• Codonopsis pilosula (codonopsis)
• Cordyceps sinensis (cordyceps)
• Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng)
• Ganoderma lucidum (reishi)
• Glycyrrhiza glabra (liquorice)
• Grifola frondosa (maitake)
• Lentinula edodes (shitake)
• Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng)
• Panax notoginseng (tienchi ginseng)
• Panax quinquefolium (American ginseng)
• Rehmannia somnifera (rehmannia)
• Rhodiola rosea (rhodiola)
• Schisandra chinensis (schisandra)
• Withania somnifera (withania, ashwagandha)
Most of these options can be obtained on Fullscript or Wellevate.