Stress is an inevitable part of life and for many of us managing our stress levels becomes important for different reasons at varying stages. 

Eating well, exercising and taking time can be a helpful solution but sometimes harmony and stability amongst the chaos can be made even more achievable by supplementing a healthy lifestyle with a group of vitamins called Adaptogens.

As the names suggests Adaptogens can help your body adapt and adjust to physical, chemical or biological stress.

Made up of holistic herbs, fruits and mushrooms Adaptogens are a great way of bringing a sense of relaxation and calm as they work to reduce the negative effects of stress on your body. 

Coined by Russian toxicologist in 1957, Nikolay Lazarev who first identified adaptogens as "substances that increase non-specific resistant against multiple stressors"¹, he introduced the idea that Adaptogens are thought to regulate the release of stress hormones produced by the adrenal glands, help restore the body’s natural immune function and support the resistance of stress which is turn reduces fatigue and exhaustion. 

Researchers have found that Adaptogens have several effects on the body² and therefore have been used for hundreds of years in Ayurvedic healing practices and are recommended by some practitioners for these key benefits:

• Improve attention and stimulate mental performance which has been negatively impacted by stress
• Increase endurance in situations caused by fatigue
• Balance hormone levels and keep cortisol levels in check
• Fight fatigue that results from excessive physical or emotional stress
• Combat the impact that stress has on cognitive function
• Boost the immune system
• Increase physical stamina and improve energy levels

8 Adaptogens and Their Benefits:

Rhodiola³ to lower anxiety, fatigue and improve.
VH Supplements, Magnolia Rhodiola Complex

Ashwagandha⁴ to help the body cope with everyday stressors. 
Wild Nutrition, KSM-Ashwaganda Plus

Astragalus⁵ Root to help reduce stress and ageing. 
Solgar, Astragalus Root Extract

Cordyceps mushroom⁶ to help fight stress and balance hormones.  
DIRTEA, Cordyceps Mushroom Powder

Reishi mushroom⁶ to help the body adapt to stress and promote healthy sleep to aid exhaustion. 
DIRTEA, Reishi Mushroom Powder

Maca⁷ to improve mood and increase energy.
Viridian, Organic Maca Root

Siberian Ginseng⁸ to provide energy and help relieve exhaustion.
HealthAid, Sibergin

Moringa⁹ to increase the bodies resistance to stress and reduce tiredness.
Aduna, Moringa Superleaf Powder

References

1. Olivia Roszkowski, All About Adaptogens. March 17, 2021.
2. Panossian A, Wikman G. Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress-Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2010 Jan 19;3(1):188-224. doi: 10.3390/ph3010188. PMID: 27713248; PMCID: PMC3991026.
3. Mgr. Boris Stitnicky. Rosa Rosa ( Rhodiola rosea L.). 2011 - 24.1.2018. 
4. ksm66ashwagandhaa.com. What is Ashwagandha?
5. scitechdaily.com. 8 Amazing Benefits of Astragalus Root According to Scientific Studies. January 18, 2023.
6. Jillian Kubala, MS, RD. Medically reviewed by Kim Chin, RD, Nutrition.  What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms? Benefits, Risks, and Types.March 19, 2021.
7. Emily Laurence. Medically Reviewed by Bindiya Gandhi. 7 Benefits Of Maca Root, According To Experts. January 10, 2023.
8. Jennifer Huizen. Medically reviewed by Miho Hatanaka, RDN, L.D. 12 potential health benefits of eleuthero. August 23, 2017.
9. Shameer Pasha, Mohamed Khaleel, Sukhen Som. Evaluation of Adaptogenic Activity of Moringa oleifera Lam. Research J. Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics. 2010; 2(3): 243-247.

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Adaptogens are classified as Food Supplements. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet. Please read individual product pages for contraindications.  Keep out of reach of young children. Do not exceed the daily dose. If you are taking medication, or on medical care, consult your physician prior to use.