Adaptogen definition:
A natural substance considered to help the body adapt to stress and to exert a normalizing effect uptown bodily processes. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist physical and mental stress. Primarily Adaptogens are known to support our adrenal function, which allows the body to find balance in terms of energy and relaxation. Adaptogens have been used for years in ancient Chinese/Herbal medicine. Those in the west are just waking up to the extraordinary properties these herbs and roots can provide. If you hear the nutrition industry now touting the benefits of these power boosters; now you know why! Some savvy health product manufacturer’s are now adding to their powders, bars, teas…etc.; as well as to their benefit claims.
Top 10 Adaptogen foods & herbs:
- Ashwagandha Root
*Contains chemicals that might help calm the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and alter the immune system. It is used for many conditions related to stress. - Turmeric
*Promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression, and many others - Moringa
*The leaves have 7 times more vitamin C than oranges and 15 times more potassium than bananas. It also has calcium, protein, iron, and amino acids, which help your body heal and build muscle. It’s also packed with antioxidants, substances that can protect cells from damage and may boost your immune system - Maca
*Packs high levels of iron and iodine to promote healthy cells and to help keep your metabolism on track. Its big doses of potassium help digestion and make muscles happy. Maca is also rich in calcium, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals - Licorice Root
*Promoted as a dietary supplement for conditions such as digestive problems, menopausal symptoms, cough, and bacterial and viral infections - Mushrooms*Pack a nutritional punch as they are loaded with vitamins, promote a healthy immune system and boost your bone health. That’s why they are considered as a Superfood.
- Holy Basil
*Can help protect against infection, lower your blood sugar, lower your cholesterol, ease joint pain, and protect your stomach - Nettle
*Studies show that nettles can help with inflammatory conditions such as muscle pain, arthritis, osteoarthritis, and irritable bowel disease.” Research has also found positive results in those with cardiovascular disorders, such as lowering blood pressure - Wild Blueberries
*Jam-packed with nutrients and antioxidants. They also have many amazing health benefits, including protecting us from chronic disease, reduces oxidative stress that causes aging, and improves the health of our gut microbiome - Raspberry Leaf
*Vitamin B6, found in red raspberry leaves, is a fighter of all things PMS, including mood changes and irritability. In addition, B6 binds to estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, helping regulate these steroid hormones, reducing your risk of cancer
