The Skinny

Hey guys,

 Today I would like to talk about something you all may have never heard of. I know I didn’t before doing my own personal research. However, I think these are important for more people to not only know about, but also incorporate into their diets.

 So, I present to you adaptogenic herbs! I know what you’re thinking. What is that?

Well, besides the long name, adaptogen herbs are one of the most important groups of herbs to take into the 21st century. This is because adaptogens not only increase the resistance to the effects of long term stress, but they also are a tonic, which stimulates the immune system and a general sense of well-being.

There actually has been plenty of research over the years into adaptogenic herbs. From the Russians that studied them so heavily as to create its own field of study in 1960, to later research done by Germany and Japan. The term adaptogen was first defined by Lazarev, a Russian pharmacologist, in 1947. He defined “adaptogens” as agents which help an organism to counteract any adverse effects of a physical, chemical or biological stressor by generating nonspecific resistance.

 In the many studies conducted by these various countries and scientists, adaptogens have been shown to: 

• Increase physical and mental stamina and performance
• Protect against the effects of radiation
• Reduce the side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs
• Reduce the incidence of infection
• Increase resistance to chemical carcinogens

 Now, the herbs with well-established adaptogenic activity are:

• Chinese/Korean ginseng
• Astragalus
• Siberian ginseng
• Withania
• Ashwagandha
• Eleuthero
• Licorice

 I’ve already said that these herbs are good for stress as well as being beneficial to the immune system, but there are other positives that come from incorporating these herbs.

Adaptogenic herbs may be used as the treatment or as part of the treatment for the following:

• Stress
• Exposure to stressors such as high altitude, intensive training etc
• Chronic illness
• Debility
• Convalescence
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• To increase physical and mental performance

 But wait! There’s more!

Because of their effects on the body’s capacity to deal with stress, plus heir tonic activity, these herbs can be used in a huge number of conditions. Here are some examples:

As well as being adaptogenic, astragalus is also cardiotonic. It is reported to have favorable outcomes in the treatment of cardiac problems. It also is said to aid in the treatment of liver and kidney disease.

Ashwagandha-Withania somnifera

Unlike most other adaptogens, this is slightly sedative rather than stimulating. This is helpful to be used on a person who finds it impossible to relax.

Contraindications

Panax ginseng is stimulating and warming. For long term use, it is probably best suited for older people. For short term use, it is even great for adults and children. However, it can increase anxiety and irritability, so it needs to be used cautiously. Similar effects from Siberian ginseng has also been reported.

Panax ginseng, Siberian ginseng and Astragalus are contraindicated in acute infection. However, can be used with adaptogen/tonic herbs in the wake of an acute infection to ensure a full recovery.

Still, there is more power that these herbs have. There are some that are recommended for improving immune response.

Imm Formula contains both astragalus and echinacea, both adaptogens which stimulate your immune system to work better at defending it against foreign invaders and boosts your adrenal glands.

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that increases the bodies vital energy and overall health and longevity.

Adr Formula aids the adrenal glands, which control and regulate the bodies self-defense mechanism against stress, a reaction to any stimulus which upsets normal functioning and disturbs mental or physical health. The adrenal glands generate the energy needed to perform strenuous tasks, deal with emotional crises, and fight infections.

Milk thistle is composed of silymarin which works directly on the liver to increase its effectiveness. When your liver is not functioning properly it can not remove the toxins from your body and they build up and it effects your immune system causing conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, chronic illnesses.

Now that you have all the information, I hope you can now see the real benefits that adaptogens have to offer. If you are interested in including them in your health care regimen, then please make sure to speak to your physician.