Adaptogens are herbs that can help you recuperate from strenuous physical exertion and chronic stress. These herbs, including holy basil and American ginseng, are general tonics that impart overall stamina and vigor, and can be taken regularly as tonic preparations. Herbalist David Winston, author of "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief," also lists Asian ginseng, ashwagandha, rhodiola, shatavari and eleuthero as energy-giving adaptogens. Consult a qualified health care provider before adding these herbs to your regimen.
Adaptogens
The term "adaptogen" was first employed by a Russian scientist, Nicolai V. Lazarev. After much research, he came to define an adaptogen as a naturally occurring agent that helps a living being adjust to stressors, including chemical, environmental or biological forces. Adaptogens shield the body and help it recuperate more quickly from stress. Winston explains that stress adversely affects liver function, including glucose production. Adaptogens prod the liver into converting glycogen into glucose, which then becomes available to energize and fuel your body.
Rhodiola
According to Winston, the adaptogenic plant rhodiola steps up cell activity, increases energy and reduces the fatigue that accompanies Lyme disease. Rhodiola, a Siberian native, grows at high altitude and is able to survive weather extremes. The plant's medicinal roots take five to eight years to mature. Herbalists recommend rhodiola for its effective immune system support. It also has the ability to combat viruses, enhance cognition and increase female fertility, writes Winston. Please discuss all medical and nutrition questions with your health care provider.
Asian Ginseng
Traditional Chinese doctors prescribe Asian ginseng, also known as Korean or Panax ginseng, as a remedy for general physical depletion. According to herbalist Stephen Harrod Buhner in "Herbs for Hepatitis C and the Liver," Asian ginseng acts as an adrenal tonic, immune system stimulant and antiviral herbal medicine. Asian ginseng can provide an energetic boost in cases of chronic exhaustion. Despite its many benefits, Asian ginseng is not an adequate replacement for advice and treatment from a qualified health care professional.
Shatavari
Shatavari, a member of the asparagus family, is used to restore energy, calm shattered nerves and as an overall health tonic. In clinical trials, shatavari has shown an ability to reduce diabetic retinopathy, a common cause of blindness, according to the 2000 publication, "Proceedings of the First International Congress on Ayurveda." Its bioactive agents include polysaccharides, isoflavones and shatavarins. Scientists hypothesize that shatavarins influence hormonal levels in both men and women, which may explain its traditional use to enhance fertility and as an aphrodisiac, according to scientist M.S. Premila in "Ayurvedic Herbs." As with any herb, do not use shatavari without consulting your doctor first.
References
- "Proceedings of the First International Congress on Ayurveda"; Effect of Shatavari on Diabetic Retinopathy; January 2000
- "Ayurvedic Herbs: A Clinical Guide to the Healing Plants of Traditional Indian Medicine"; M.S. Premila; 2006
- "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief"; David Winston, et al.; 2007
- "Herbs for Hepatitis C and the Liver"; Stephen Harrod Buhner; 2000
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