What are Adaptogens?

It’s no surprise that this past year has been more stressful than most. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 2 in 3 adults say the current amount of uncertainty in our nation causes them stress. And honestly, we’re surprised it’s not closer to 100%! But if you’re part of the 65% of Americans feeling a little extra stress these days, you’re not alone. And we want to help. (1)

If you haven’t heard of them already, adaptogens are herbal remedies that can help your body deal with physical and emotional stress. They have been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic healing practices. But adaptogens are becoming more and more popular as those in the Western world discover their healing powers.

So how do you take advantage of the benefits of adaptogens?

Today, adaptogens are usually consumed as supplements, tinctures and adaptogenic teas. Other types of adaptogens like holy basil can be eaten in foods and some types like Ashwagandha can be enjoyed as a powder and mixed into smoothies. 

Some of the most common adaptogens include ginseng, cordyceps, ashwagandha, tulsi (holy basil), turmeric, maca root, reishi, nettle leaf, and schisandra. But there are thousands of herbs and plants that can help your body resist and respond to certain stressors, including our whole flower teas. 

We’ve shared what adaptogens are, but how do they work?

Before the invention of western medicine, cultures around the world used what they could find in nature to heal themselves. Over thousands of years, they were able to discover which plants and herbs worked the best for hundreds of different issues. Let’s take the blue lotus flower for example. Back in ancient Egypt, the Egyptians used the blue lotus flower to treat a lot of conditions and disorders including anxiety and insomnia. The Egyptians didn’t know why exactly the blue lotus flower was so good for sleep and relaxation, but they knew it worked.

Today, we know that the blue lotus flower contains two compounds called apomorphine and nuciferine. Apomorphine can help instill a happy and euphoric feeling because it activates dopamine receptors, while nuciferine can help increase feelings of calmness. (2)

Rose tea has been enjoyed in Asia for centuries. It was, and still is, an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine because it was said to regulate qi, or life energy. Rose tea was used to remedy fatigue, improve gut health, and promote radiant skin and hair. Today, we know that rose petals contain a good source of vitamin C, iron, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin E as well as phytonutrients, which are plant compounds with antioxidant properties. (3)

Vitamin C and E help promote healthy skin and hair and these phytonutrients can even help your body fight against some of the negative side effects of stress. 

Should you use adaptogens?

Everybody is different and may not always have the same reaction to certain herbs and plants. We always recommend that you listen to your body, but also to medical advice from a professional. If you’re struggling with general stress or fatigue, adaptogens could be a great addition to your regime, but if your stress is starting to feel unbearable, you may want to consider other options.

And with that we wish you to drink flowers and be well. 👋🌸

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek professional medical advice before choosing at-home healing.