Adaptogens And Herbs For Beginners (2024)

FAQs

Adaptogens And Herbs For Beginners? ›

You can take adaptogens by adding them to food or beverages or take them as tinctures. Adaptogens bring your body back to a steady balance by managing both physical and mental stressors.

You can take adaptogens by adding them to food or beverages or take them as tinctures. Adaptogens bring your body back to a steady balance by managing both physical and mental stressors.

Ashwagandha

Considered by many to be the superstar of the adaptogen world, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an evergreen shrub native to parts of the Middle East, India, and Africa. It is deeply rooted in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, and is one of the more well-researched adaptogens.

Adaptogens are well tolerated by adults, but some noted common side effects include: Nausea. Diarrhea. Dry mouth.

While adaptogens can provide stress relief, improve mood and support overall well-being, they do not provide the same effects as alcohol in terms of intoxication.

Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding. Ashwagandha is not recommended for people who are about to have surgery, or for those who have autoimmune or thyroid disorders.

Vedic texts note that Ashwagandha has benefits for the nervous and endocrine systems, which may account for why it is used to calm anxiety. The plant is used as against inflammation and as a general rejuvenation tonic as well. Tulsi, also called Holy Basil, is said to promote whole body well-being.

Tulsi, known as “holy basil” or the “queen of herbs,” is another shrub commonly used in Ayurvedic medicines. Tulsi is known to promote focus and alleviate anxiety. One clinical trial found it significantly diminished generalized anxiety disorder in patients, as well as their associated stress and depression.

Which is the king of adaptogen? ›

ELEUTHEROCOCCUS SENTICOSUS (Siberian Ginseng)

Considered to be the “King of Adaptogens” because it exhibits a wide range of protective and beneficial actions in the body. Numerous clinical studies have shown ES has a marked effect on the cells' ability to absorb glucose.

While some adaptogens are more stimulating and most appropriate to take in the morning or early afternoon, others have a more calming effect and are best taken later in the day or evening when you want to wind down.

Key Takeaways. Adaptogens are compounds found in plants and some fungi that are believed to help your body increase resilience to stress, reduce inflammation, improve metabolism, moderate appetite, and potentially help with weight loss.

In a sense, CBD could also be considered an adaptogen, but there is no scientific work that defines it as such.

Some people may begin to feel a difference within a few days, while others may not feel the effects for several weeks or months. Adaptogens are usually taken for an extended period to allow the body to adapt and respond.

While some adaptogens are more stimulating and most appropriate to take in the morning or early afternoon, others have a more calming effect and are best taken later in the day or evening when you want to wind down.

Some people may begin to feel a difference within a few days, while others may not feel the effects for several weeks or months. Adaptogens are usually taken for an extended period to allow the body to adapt and respond.

Experts recommend ingesting adaptogenic herbs in small doses each day over the course of six to 12 weeks (unless you're directed otherwise by your doctor). Taking larger doses in a single sitting may result in adverse effects, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness or headaches.

Ashwagandha: This popular adaptogen should be thought of a little bit like 'food' because it is an herb. All herbs should be taken with a snack or a meal in order to amplify the benefits and reduce nausea.