Adrenals glands may be the size of walnuts but their impact on your well-being and daily health cannot be overstated. If your adrenal glands fall into disrepair, tasks you had previously taken for granted may become difficult, while both your energy levels and immune system may become compromised. Supporting adrenal health through dietary measures become more important during times of increased stress; some herbs may hold an important role in this.
Licorice Root
Licorice root remains a useful herb to support adrenal function, especially in cases of adrenal fatigue where stress hormones like cortisol are often low. The active component, glycyrrhizin, is known to slow down the breakdown of cortisol at the liver, boosting levels of this hormone in the circulation. Dr James Wilson, the author of "Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome", explains that for the very reason that it is effective in cases of low adrenal function, it may be unsuitable for individuals with high cortisol output.
Siberian Ginseng
Ginseng falls into the the category of herbs known as an adaptogens. Adaptogenic herbs generally balance out various systems of the body, lowering hormones when they are high and boosting production where insufficiency occurs. Panax/Korean Ginseng, American Ginseng and Siberian Ginseng all share a reputation for supporting adrenal health but, according to the long-term research of Russian scientist Dr Brekman, Siberian Ginseng delivers the most reliable effect in improving health and performance.
Ashwaganda
Sometimes nicknamed Indian ginseng, but officially known as withania somnifera, ashwaganda also offers adaptogenic properties. Societies have long prized the herb for its calming properties, and practitioners of Indian Medicine have traditionally used ashwaganda as a tonic for thyroid disorders, adrenal support and general anxiety. Studies show that the effects of this herb do vary from ginseng. This explains why some individuals who feel no particular benefit from ginseng may feel much better from taking ashwaganda, and vice versa.
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