In a world where stress and strain are part of everyday life, it is important to find ways to support the body's ability to handle different types of stressors. This is where adaptogens come into play as a powerful resource that helps the body adapt to and deal with the challenges it faces. Adaptogens are a group of plants and fungi that have the ability to adapt and help the body deal with different types of stress and strain, and in this article we will explore what adaptogens are, how they work and what potential benefits they can offer to our health and well-being.
What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are the group of plants and fungi that contain specific bioactive substances that affect our cells' ability to adapt to various forms of stress. These substances have traditionally been used in various medical systems, such as traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, to promote well-being and increase the body's resistance to stress.
The name adaptogen comes from the English "to adapt", which means to adapt. Because adaptogens have the magical ability to adapt in the body and work to maintain balance, there is no risk of overstimulating or exaggerating a certain function. Unlike central stimulants, such as caffeine, the dose of adaptogen does not need to be increased over time as its effect does not diminish, and does not have an addictive effect.
To be called an adaptogen, the plant or mushroom must meet certain requirements:
- The effect must be general and broad, to the extent that resistance is improved against a wide range of stressors of a physical, chemical and biological nature.
- They must have a normalizing, i.e. restorative, function.
- Adaptogens must be harmless and have a broad therapeutic effect with minimal, or no, disturbance of the normal biological processes.
How Do Adaptogens Work?
Adaptogens work by influencing different systems in the body, including the endocrine system and the nervous system, to regulate the stress response. But exactly how adaptogens work in the body is something that is still being studied. However, there are several hypotheses and studies about how these substances can affect the body's stress response, which includes its effect on the cells' ability to adapt to stress by activating various cellular signaling pathways and protective mechanisms. This means, among other things, an impact on the production and regulation of stress-related hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can help balance the body's response to stress.
Popular adaptogens and their benefits
There are many different adaptogens that have been studied for their potential health benefits. Here are our favorites!
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha , also known as Withania Somnifera or Indian ginseng, is an herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years for its potential health benefits. It has a particularly positive effect on fatigue, physical exhaustion and emotional stress, but also on focus and endurance. Ashwagandha is popular for milder anxiety and to calm the body during high stress. Today, Ashwagandha is one of the most popular adaptogens, which is not surprising as many of us live stressful lives. Want to learn more about Ashwagandha? Click here .
Rose root (Rhodiola Rosea)
Rose root , with the Latin name Rhodiola Rosea , is a popular plant that was already described as a medicinal plant by Carl von Linné in 1755. Rose root has long been used in traditional medicine to, among other things, reduce fatigue, promote cognitive ability and increase endurance. The plant is also very rich in the powerful antioxidant vitamin C, which is important for the immune system. Are you curious about Rosenroot and want to read more? Click here .
Reishi
Reishi , also called lacquer tick, is a mushroom with long-standing traditional use in China above all but also in other East Asian countries. For over 2000 years, it has been valued for its ability to support the body in various health problems. It has, for example, been used for sleep problems, high stress levels, inflammation and reduced immune system. Do you want to read more about Reishi? Click here .
Cordyceps
Cordyceps, like reishi, is a mushroom that has long been used in Asia for its potential health benefits. Among other things, the mushroom has been used for endurance and energy, but also as an aphrodisiac in both men and women. Cordyceps can now be bought both as powder, capsules and in combination with other mushrooms, which gives a nice synergistic effect. In our Mushroom Complex with Lion's mane you will not only find lion's mane but also cordyceps! Read more about our mushroom products here .
Russian root (Siberian ginseng)
Russian root, also known as "Siberian ginseng", is a well-known adaptogenic herb that has been used traditionally in Chinese and Russian medicine. It has also been popular here in Sweden for a long time and is often found in food supplements developed for reduced fatigue, improved endurance, reduced stress and a normally functioning immune system.
Panax Ginseng
Panax Ginseng is by far one of the most studied herbs that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to help the body deal with stress and increase stamina. In addition, the herb is believed to affect energy levels, improve cognitive function and strengthen the immune system. Ginseng is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce fatigue as well as increase libido. You will therefore find ginseng in products with a focus on energy, performance, sex drive and reduced stress. We at Elexir Pharma have developed a fantastic product for sex drive containing precisely Panax Ginseng called Good Sex. Read more about it here !
Research and scientific background
Despite centuries of use in traditional medicine, research on adaptogens is still not sufficient. More research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms, effectiveness and impact of the plants and fungi on our health and well-being. But many of the studies done so far have shown that adaptogens can help reduce stress, increase energy and improve both physical and mental function in certain individuals.
Summary
Adaptogens are natural substances that are said to have the ability to help the body adapt to and deal with stress. These substances, found in plants and mushrooms, have been studied for their potential health benefits, including increased energy, reduced fatigue, and improved mental and physical performance. Although more research is needed to understand their exact mechanisms and effectiveness, adaptogens have become increasingly popular as an adjunct to a healthy lifestyle to promote well-being and manage stress. If you suffer from an illness, take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to consult with a doctor or other qualified health care provider before taking adaptogen supplements.
common questions and answers
Who can take adaptogens?
Generally speaking, the vast majority of people can eat adaptogens without any problems. However, it is important to consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is very limited research on this. We advise you to refrain from adaptogens during this period. If you are taking medication of any kind, are allergic to certain plants or fungi, and if you have any illness, it is also always important to consult a doctor.
Which adaptogens are best for me?
Which adaptogens suit you best depends on what your problem is. All adaptogens have certain things in common, i.e. its effect on the nervous system and the body's stress response, as well as a positive effect on energy and fatigue. In addition to that, the different plants and mushrooms have slightly different areas in which they are said to be most effective. Read more about the different adaptogens further up in this article to find the one or ones that suit you best!
How should I dose and use adaptogens?
When buying adaptogens as dietary supplements, there is always a dosage suggestion on the packaging that we recommend you follow. If you are taking medication, it is important to consult your doctor before starting a new dietary supplement, including adaptogens.
Are there any risks or side effects with adaptogens?
Currently, there are no known risks with eating adaptogens. However, as with all dietary supplements, one can experience certain side effects such as milder stomach upset, sleep disturbances, increased heart rate and allergic reaction.
