Longstanding stress can be deeply harmful to the body in more ways that one. The body was designed with a system for temporary stress. The “fight or flight” response does not function well as a permanent coping mechanism for constant, unrelenting stress. Long term stress can harm the body physically, emotionally and even spiritually. The biggest physical impact of long term stress is on the glandular and endocrine systems of the thyroid and adrenals. The thryoid and adrenals are responsible for producing the various hormones that our bodies need to live and thrive.
Fortunately, there is a class of herbs known as adaptogens that are uniquely suited to support the body’s efforts to combat prolonged stress. As their name implies, adaptogens help the body to adapt to situations that contribute to chronic stress. What makes adaptogens even more special is the fact that they don’t change any specific function of the body. In essence, adaptogens normalize the physiology to help release the body from the constant state of “fight or flight”.
One of the ways that adaptogens accomplish this is by targeting cortisol, the hormone that is produced as part of “fight or flight” response. Like all of the other hormones that our bodies produce, cortisol is essential for life. But it’s only supposed to be produced in small amounts, and for a limited time. Adaptogens help decrease cortisol levels because they function similarly to cortisol. And because they’re taken as a supplement, adaptogens don’t cause any strain whatsoever on the body. As a result, the adrenal glands are freed up to continue producing other vital hormones.
Panax Ginseng
Panaz Ginseng is also referred to as Asian, Chinese, or Korean ginseng. It has been used in Asia and North America for centuries. And it is the most well-studied of the ginseng varieties and is considered to be the “truest” form of ginseng. Clinical studies have confirmed that both Siberian and Chinese ginsengs significantly reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Many use it to improve thinking, concentration, memory and physical endurance. It’s also utilized to help with depression, chronic fatigue, boost the immune system, and to help fight infections.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most highly prized of the adaptogenic herbs. Is is also known as Indian ginseng. Ashwagandha has a long track record that suggests that it helps support a strong immune system and emotional balance. Eastern medicine has long recognized the incredible ability of ashwagandha to support balanced cortisol levels while helping to mitigate stress. It can also help lower blood sugar levels, boost brain function and help fight symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Maca
Maca is known as Peruvian ginseng, although, it isn’t actually from the ginseng family. It is regarded as being one of the “lost crops of the Andes.” It has long been prized by the native people of Peru as an herbal tonic of the highest order. Its many reported benefits include increased strength, stamina, energy, libido, and sexual function. Maca has also been shown to provide effective support for drained adrenals. The adaptogenic qualities of maca actually help your body normalize cortisol levels, reduce exhaustion from stress, and protect against other negative stress effects.
Holy Basil
Sometimes referred to as Tulsi, holy basil is particularly suited to help the body better respond to both physical and emotional stress. All parts of the holy basilplant act as an adaptogen. From the leaves to the seed, holy basil is considered a tonic for the body, mind, and spirit. Its effects specifically on the mind are what set it apart from some of the other adaptogens. It is also considered to be powerfully anti-aging as well. The nutritional value is also high, as it contains vitamins A and C, calcium, zinc, iron, and chlorophyll. It can be taken as a tea, or a pill. It is also available as an ointment, essential oil, and an alcohol extract.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is native to Europe and Asia. The plant is actually classified as a weed in those areas. The early Egyptians loved licorice root. They used it in tea as a cure-all concoction. Licorice was later imported to China where it became an important herb in Chinese medicinal tradition. As an adaptogen, it is considered energizing and has immune-boosting properties. It also has a special ability to help protect the thymus gland from being damaged by cortisol. It’s important to use this one under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, though, because it can affect blood pressure levels.
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