What are adaptogens and what effect do they have?
Adaptogens are plant based substances that enhance the body’s resistance to stress of all kinds, whether physical, chemical or biological. They simultaneously decrease sensitivity to stress which results in further stress protection. Clinical studies confirm adaptogens exhibit neuroprotective, anti-depressive, anti-fatigue and nootropic effects.
The protective activity provided by adaptogens helps promote homeostasis. Homeostasis is a state of balance or equilibrium within your body critical to ensuring all other biological systems can work as intended. Maintaining homeostasis leads to optimal well-being and decreases the chances of disease or other ailments.
As discussed in previous stories covering the endocannabinoid system, CBD has a similar beneficial effect of promoting homeostasis.
Used for Centuries
If you’ve never heard of adaptogens before, we bet now you’re wondering ‘how come’?! Adaptogenic herbs and roots have been used for centuries in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicinal healing. They are having a renaissance today as more people become aware of their potential as natural health alternatives.
Types of Adaptogens
A long list of adaptogens exist, each one having its own slightly unique effect. They are often categorised into two groups; those that stimulate the body and enhance mental performance such as ginseng, maca and rhodiola rosea. Others such as ashwagandha, reishi and holy basil help calm the body and mind.
Ashwagandha: the stress buster
Ashwagandha is a shrub that grows throughout India, the Middle East and parts of Africa. It has a long history of use as a general tonic to boost energy and reduce stress and anxiety. In addition there is evidence to suggest the herb has anti-inflammatory properties. For these reasons, we have sourced an Ashwagandha extract to incorporate into our BALANCE range. It compliments and fortifies the powerful properties of CBD, supporting customers to find calm and clarity each day.
References:
Alexander Panossian and Georg Wikman. (2010). Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress – Protective Activity.
Panossian A, Wikman G, Wagner H. (1999). Plant adaptogens – Earlier and more recent aspects and concepts on their mode of action.
Brekhman II, Dardymov IV. (1969). New substances of plant origin which increase nonspecific resistance.
