With long days, packed schedules, and hectic lives, the search for the ultimate tonic and energy boost is at its peak. And there is no shortage of contenders either.
Unfortunately, not all of them deliver, and the ones that do, may be doing you more harm than good.
This is where adaptogens change the game.
These extraordinary herbal supplements provide all the energy you need without any of the lingering side effects associated with other energy-boosting additives. A healthier, natural, and more sustainable alternative, adaptogens have quickly become the go-to option for those seeking to elevate their energy levels while combatting the stressors of their daily lives.
And with so many energy-boosting adaptogens available, the only question that remains is which one would work best for you.
What exactly are adaptogens?
Adaptogens are natural substances derived from plants that help the body combat stress and fatigue.
A hallmark of Ayurvedic medicine, adaptogens have long since been celebrated for their incredible efficacy in boosting energy levels, while improving the body’s immune function. And as more is understood about their mechanism, there is more to appreciate about their function.
How do adaptogens work?
Adaptogens work by regulating and balancing the adrenal, pituitary, and hypothalamus glands; essentially those which are responsible for the body’s stress response. This allows them to increase the body’s resistance to stress, while at the same time decreasing its sensitivity to stressors.
Simply put, adaptogens help the body adapt to and better respond to external stressors, without succumbing to the consequent exhaustion.
What effects do adaptogens have on the body?
Adaptogens have been shown to:
- Fight stress
- Reduce fatigue
- Increase stamina
- Boost energy levels
- Increase immunity
- Combat depression
- Improve cognitive function
- Attain and maintain homeostasis
No wonder they are considered to be ‘super’ supplements!
Are adaptogens safe to consume?
Yes. Unlike other pharmaceutical options, adaptogens are well tolerated, non-habit forming, and not overstimulating. This makes them wonderful alternatives to the caffeine-infused, jitter-inducing energy drinks on the market today.
Adaptogens may be consumed every day, or even several times a day (based on individual needs, and of course following professional advice). And how they may be consumed also varies; though powders, capsules, or teas seem to be the most popular choices.
And while side effects associated with adaptogens are rare, they can cause allergic reactions or intestinal discomfort.
What are the different types of adaptogens?
While there are several types of adaptogens available, some of the best ones, in terms of their stress-relieving and energy-boosting capabilities, include:
- Ashwagandha
A powerful Ayurvedic herb, ashwagandha is renowned for its energising properties. Not just that; ashwagandha is also known to enhance muscle strength and physical endurance, making it the perfect adaptogen to combat the effects of fatigue.
Usually found in capsule or powder form, it is ideally taken in the morning with a warm glass of milk or even blended in smoothies.
- Cordyceps
Used in traditional Chinese medicine, cordyceps are actually a type of fungi that boast of incredible properties. They are found to boost energy production, improve circulation, fight inflammation, enhance physical strength, and are even shown to have anti-ageing properties.
Cordyceps supplements are available in capsule, powder or extract form. As such, they may be added to smoothies, teas, or soups.
- Ginseng
Best consumed in the morning to maximise absorption, ginseng is available in capsule, powder, and extract form.
Ginseng is shown to have significant success in fighting fatigue while promoting mental clarity and cognitive function.
- Gotu kola
In addition to being a delicious green, gotu kola is an energising adaptogen that improves blood circulation, fights fatigue, and enhances focus and mental performance.
This means that gotu kola has both relaxing and rejuvenating properties; making it the ideal adaptogen for combatting the effects of stress and burnout.
- Maca
A wonderfully flavoured adaptogen, maca has been shown to increase endurance, improve mood, enhance cognitive function, and regulate hormonal levels; essentially the ideal energiser.
- Moringa
Providing you with the buzz of coffee (without the caffeine), moringa is celebrated for its rich nutrients that enhance both physical and mental function.
This adaptogen is known to boost energy levels, promote alertness and focus, and regulate stress levels; thereby increasing the body’s resistance to stress.
Available in capsules, powders, and whole leaf, moringa is also adaptable as it can be taken in the form of teas, smoothies, soups, or even baked into desserts.
- Rhodiola
One of the best performance enhancers, rhodiola increases strength, stamina, and energy levels; making it the ideal partner for athletes.
Typically consumed in capsule form, it is best to take rhodiola at the start of the day due to its stimulating properties.
- Tulsi
The ‘Holy Basil’ or ‘Elixir of Life’, tulsi has been used for centuries to manage stress, relax the nervous system, improve cognitive function, regulate metabolism, and of course improve energy levels. No wonder it is treated with such reverence.
- Turmeric
A traditional Indian spice, known for its flavour and vibrant colour, turmeric is equally well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. What is less known is its effect on cognitive function.
Turmeric has the ability to stabilise and enhance focus and function; thereby improving memory and mood.
- Shatavari
A firm favourite of women all over, shatavari is not just a powerful energy-boosting adaptogen that increases endurance and stamina. It is also incredibly effective in promoting normal hormonal balance and function.
Conclusion
The hustle is real. And so is the consequent stress and burnout.
Adaptogens offer a real, sustainable, and healthy solution to combat the heavy physical and mental toll that we subject ourselves to on a daily basis.
And though adaptogens have been around for centuries, it is clear that their incredible properties and uses are limited only by our understanding and research.
Looking to incorporate adaptogens into your daily diet? Need guidance as to how and where to start?
Consult our panel of Ayurvedic experts at The Ayurvedic Clinic today to find out how you too can reap the incredible benefits of adaptogens, and become healthier and more energetic than ever before!