NATURE ’ S PHARMACY
ADAPTOGENS , WHICH ARE PLANTS , HERBS AND MUSHROOMS , ARE USED TO HELP THE BODY ADAPT TO STRESS IN AN EFFORT TO REGULATE BODILY FUNCTIONS .
BY SHARAEL KOLBERG
From ginseng , ashwagandha and holy basil to cordyceps mushrooms , astragalus root and a Peruvian root called maca , adaptogens are said to improve overall wellbeing , as well as address specific concerns .
Benefits of these medicinal plants may include increased cognitive function , reduced fatigue , boosted immune system and minimized anxiety . And it ’ s easier than ever to take advantage of adaptogen ingredients , as they are springing up in lattes and other drinks and dishes all over SoCal .
ALTERNATIVE ASSISTANCE The main health benefit of adaptogens is to help the body achieve and maintain homeostasis — stability of bodily functions . Depending on what your body is lacking or overproducing , the right adaptogen can bring your body back into balance .
For example , if you have too many free radicals in your system ( caused by things such as stress , air pollutants or cigarette smoke ), which can lead to damaged cells , adaptogens such as bacopa monnieri can help neutralize free radicals . Adaptogens can also stabilize cortisol levels , which can lead to improved healing , better ability to concentrate , lower blood pressure , increased energy and a boost in mood .
“ In traditional Chinese medicine , there are a number of herbs and herbal formulas that are used as adaptogens , but not all adaptogens work the same way ,” says Andrew Houn , of Beyond Acupuncture in Newport Beach , who has master ’ s and doctorate degrees in acupuncture with a specialization in herbal medicine . “ They can be stimulating , calming , healing or cooling . The benefits are numerous . Consulting with a licensed acupuncturist to get an individualized herbal formula is the best way to get what you specifically need .”
Adaptogens are also nontoxic and do not typically have negative side effects . If you ’ re looking to improve a specific area of your health or just want better overall well-being , adaptogens can be a good source to achieve your physical and mental health goals .
HOW TO CHOOSE There are reportedly nearly 70 adaptogens that provide herbal remedies for a variety of health concerns , from memory loss or inflammation to high cholesterol or anemia . Many of them have been used for thousands of years in parts of Asia and India , as part of holistic practices and Ayurvedic medicine .
In the U . S ., however , they are considered to be a supplement and are therefore not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration . They are not a cure but are to be used as part of a balanced diet and fitness regime . Some adaptogens can interfere with certain medicines , so be sure to check with your health care provider before incorporating them into your diet .
“ Adaptogens can help the body recoup energy , fight fatigue , deal with stress , restore physiological functions and provide metabolic support , but selecting which ones to take varies greatly based on a person ’ s symptoms and organ involvement ,”
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