The adrenal glands, which include the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex, help regulate the hormones and steroids that are involved in your body's metabolism, nervous system responses and immune function. If you are under stress or chronically fatigued, your adrenal system may need a boost. Herbs can help support your adrenal glands and restore your energy and vitality. Consult your health care provider before starting herbal treatment.
Herbal Actions
Herbs that support your adrenal glands are called adaptogens. These herbs contain chemicals known as saponins, which affect hormone synthesis and other functions of the adrenal glands. Adaptogens relieve fatigue and help your body cope with stress. Since adrenal glands affect so many different bodily functions, always consult a qualified herb specialist for directions about the long-term use, safe dosage and preparation of adaptogenic herbs.
Ashwaganda
Ashwaganda, or Withania somnifera, is a small perennial shrub with bright red berries. Indian Ayurvedic practitioners use the roots to treat stress, and the plant is also called Indian ginseng because of its tonic effects. In his 2003 book, "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine," clinical herbalist David Hoffmann recommends ashwaganda to support the adrenal medulla. This is the central part of the adrenal gland involved in secreting adrenaline and noradrenaline, necessary for proper metabolism and nervous system functioning. Do not use ashwaganda if you have a thyroid disorder.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng, or Eleutherococcus senticosus, is a prickly shrub native to Siberia. Herbalists use the roots and rhizomes as an adaptogen to treat fatigue and stress. In their 2009 book, "Medicinal Plants of the World," botanist Ben-Erik van Wyk and biologist Michael Wink state that the herb may improve endurance, reduce stress and enhance the immune system. Hoffmann states that the saponins in the herb, known as eleutherosides, have a direct supportive impact on the adrenal medulla. Van Wyk and Wink caution not to use Siberian ginseng for more than three months, and to avoid it if you have hypertension.
Wild Yam
Wild yam, or Dioscorea villosa, is a climbing vine with small white flowers native to Central America. Traditional healers use the rhizomes to treat coughs, inflammation, rheumatism and colic. The plant is rich in saponins such as dioscin, a source for the synthesis of steroidal hormones like cortisol, which the adrenal gland produces in response to stress. Hoffmann recommends wild yam to support the adrenal cortex. This is the outer part of the adrenal gland involved in the body's stress response. Consult a knowledgeable health care professional if you experience nausea, diarrhea or headache after using wild yam.
References
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Medicinal Plants of the World"; Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink; 2009
