An Adaptogen is an herbal outcome that is taken either directly in the raw form or in a modified form like tablets, powder etc.., to restore the normal functioning of one’s body. Generally adaptogens are used as stress busters and to improve one’s ability to control anxiety and eliminate fatigue. They are called “adaptogens” because they can adapt to anyone’s body and functions accordingly to his needs. Adaptogen benefits a person not to make him collapsed over excess stress by improving the functioning of adrenal gland which is the main gland that helps to respond to stress and maintain blood pressure.
Adaptogens have been used in most parts of Asia and some parts of Europe since many years. It was at the time of Cold war that the scientific uses of adaptogens came to light. For aherb to become an Adaptogen, it must contain nontoxic properties and must act according to the functions of the body. There are many types of adaptogens for different uses.
- To improve physical strength and enhance one’s mental ability, adaptogens like Eleuthero, Asian Ginseng and Rhodiola Rhosea can be taken.
“Ginseng” is used specifically to treat fatigue and is also used to treat diabetes and bronchitis. It also normalizes heartbeat. It is also effective to solve the problems post menopause in women.
Side effects of Ginseng: Ginseng may give jittery feeling sometimes and it is also not recommended for the people who have excess blood pressure as it may lead to further increase in blood pressure.
“Eleuthero” specializes in reducing unwanted cholesterol in the body. It shows quick results in the people who suffer from cold and also helps to prevent clotting of blood internally.
Side effects of Eleuthero: It can cause irritation, headache and anxiety.
“Rhodiola Rhosea” as the name has Rhosea, it gives fragrance of rose when cut. This herb improves flow of blood in the brain and in various parts of body. It also protects liver.
Side effects of Rhosea: It may also cause jitteriness and it is better not to consume the herb that has caffeine mixed in it.
- To help the body fight against stress and to calm one’s body, adaptogens like Ashwagandha and reishi can be taken.
“Ashwagandha” reduces the risk of cancer and is popularly called as Indian Ginseng. It cures attention deficit disorders.
Side effects of Ashwagandha: When taken in exceeded limit leads to diarrhea and distress.
“Reishi” effectively treats respiratory ailments and works well as an anti-oxidant.
Side effects of Reishi: If taken in excess amounts, it leads to dizziness and skin allergies.
- Astralgus helps to boost immunity in one’s body. Side effects include hypertension and gastrointestinal problems.
- To boost libido, Maca herb works well. Maca is not advised for the people who have thyroid problems.
Best uses of Adaptogen
Adaptogens work best at the times of:
- stress.
- Illness.
- During chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- To treat burn out.
- Insomnia.
Working of Adaptogens
Adaptogens benefits a person byplaying dual role. They not only calm the body but at the same time energizes the body without causing much damage to the body. They enable the cells to remove toxic substances produced during metabolism and enables body to utilize more oxygen in an effective way. Adaptogens are to be taken based on one’s physiological needs. Some people take them once a day while few others take them several times in a day. To have the herbs work effectively on your system, you can take a break for a week if you have been using adaptogens for six weeks or more and you can take a break for a month if you have been using adaptogens continuously for six months or more.