Stress can affect everyone, it is all around us, and stress build-up can lead to some less-than-desirable consequences. Adaptogens are a class of nontoxic herbs and roots or plant-based substances like mushrooms that are believed to help the body resist and adapt to stress. Adaptogens have been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicines to help boost the adrenal system which is responsible for managing the body’s hormonal responses to stress.
Adaptogens are thought to work by modulating the body’s stress response and promoting balance that is encouraged by their phytochemical components such as triterpenoid saponins, ginsenosides, eleutherosides, phytosterols, ecdysone, lignans, alkaloids, vitamins, and flavonoids.
Examples of Adaptogens:
Ashwagandha, Holy basil, Astragalus, Ginseng, Rhodiola rosea, Schisandra, Maca, Eleuthero, Cordyceps, Reishi mushrooms, Turmeric, and Licorice root.
Potential Benefits:
- Balancing hormones: Helping to regulate the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol.
- Reducing inflammation: They may help reduce inflammation caused by stress.
- Improving immune function: They may boost the immune system and protect against illness.
- Enhancing energy levels: They may help reduce fatigue and increase energy levels.
- Improving mood: They may help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
- Improved fitness: May boost muscle strength, endurance, athletic performance, and recovery
Adaptogenic herbs may also play a role in fighting inflammation that in turn helps to protect against several age-related diseases such as sarcopenia, atherosclerosis, osteoarthritis, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative conditions.
Safety and Side Effects
Most adaptogens are considered safe when used as directed. However, some may interact with medications or have potential side effects, such as stomach upset, insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, and allergic reactions.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid taking adaptogenics.
Scientific Evidence
While some studies have shown promising results, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of adaptogens. It’s important to note that the FDA does not regulate adaptogens, so it’s crucial to purchase them from reputable sources.
Benefits of Mushroom Adaptogens
Adaptogenic mushrooms are a class of medicinal fungi that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their health-promoting properties. They are believed to help the body adapt to stress and improve overall well-being.
Popular adaptogenic mushrooms include reishi, lion’s mane, cordyceps, and shiitake.
Potential Benefits
- Boosting the immune system: Adaptogenic mushrooms may stimulate the immune system and protect against infections.
- Reducing stress and anxiety: These mushrooms may help regulate stress hormones and improve mood.
- Improving cognitive function: Some adaptogenic mushrooms may enhance memory, focus, and mental clarity.
- Promoting gut health: They may support a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion.
- Fighting cancer: Some studies suggest that certain adaptogenic mushrooms may have anti-cancer properties.
- Reducing inflammation: These mushrooms may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
- Improving sleep quality: Adaptogenic mushrooms may promote relaxation and improve sleep patterns.
- Boosting energy levels: They may help combat fatigue and improve overall energy.
Safety and Precautions
Most adaptogenic mushrooms are considered safe when consumed in moderation. However, some individuals may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or allergic reactions. It is important to:
- Consult a healthcare professional before using adaptogenic mushrooms, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
- Start with a low dose and gradually increase it as tolerated.
- Purchase adaptogenic mushrooms from reputable sources to ensure quality and safety.
- Avoid using raw or wild-foraged mushrooms unless you are an experienced mushroom identifier.
Conclusion
Adaptogens are herbal or plant-based substances that may help the body cope with stress. They have been used in traditional medicine for centuries and are gaining popularity as a natural way to improve health and well-being. Potential benefits are thought to include reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood and energy levels, enhancing cognitive function, boosting immune system function, combat inflammation, and protecting against cellular damage. However, more scientific evidence is needed to fully support their claims in humans. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using any adaptogens, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Additionally, adaptogenic mushrooms offer a range of potential health benefits, including stress reduction, immune support, and improved cognitive function. However, it is still important to use them cautiously and consult a healthcare professional when necessary.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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References/Sources/Materials provided by:
TJW at WHN
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22361-adaptogens
https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/what-are-adaptogens-and-should-you-be-taking-them
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https://www.womenshealthmag.com/food/a40993140/adaptogenic-mushrooms
