Your adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, produce a variety of essential hormones, including the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen, and cortisol, which is the major hormone involved in the stress response. Under chronic stress, however, your adrenal glands may not keep pace with your body's constant demands for cortisol production. As a result, you may experience symptoms, such as fatigue, nervousness and sleep disturbances. Some scientific evidence supports the use of herbs to treat an underactive adrenal gland, but consult with your doctor before considering any herbal therapies.
Licorice
Licorice is the dried root of a European leguminous plant, which is often referred to as Glycyrrhiza glabra. Licorice root is known to stimulate the adrenal glands and prolongs the action of cortisol by stimulating the adrenal cortex. Laboratory reports have shown that the restorative effect of licorice root on the adrenal glands stems from its active compounds glycyrrhizins, according to George Mason University.
Asian Ginseng
Asian ginseng is an adaptogenic herb, which means it protects against adverse stress effects. It improves stress resistance by supporting the adrenal glands. Therefore, people with adrenal insufficiency often use Asian ginseng as an herbal supplement. Asian ginseng contains ginsenosides, which are thought to produce the herb's medicinal effects, according to the University of Tulsa.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal product that comes from a North American coneflower. This herb is most popular for its immune-stimulating activity. Echinacea is also used in American folk medicine as a harmonizing ingredient and one that stimulates the adrenal glands. In clinical studies, those taking echinacea supplements were able to withstand higher levels of emotional and physical stress than those who did not take the herb.
