Adaptogenic herbs relieve stress & promote well-being

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Adaptogenic herbs relieve stress and promote well-being

Maimes, Healthcare Review

Stress may be the number one cause of illness and disease. The American

Institute

of Stress reports as many as 75 to 90 percent of visits to health care

professionals

are related in some way to the adverse effects of stress. In survey after

survey,

Americans identify stress as their number one health concern today and more than

50 percent of adults in the US report high stress on a daily basis.

Adapting to stress is a natural mechanism for human survival. But the stress of

modern living has increased levels of stress adaptation. Too much stress can

seriously affect performance, health and well-being. There are many ways to

adapt

to or relieve stress. This article would like to introduce one additional way:

the use of

" adaptogenic herbs?'

Tonics and adaptogens

Within Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, there is a long history of using tonic

remedies to restore health. Indian physicians practicing Ayurveda recognized the

contribution of rejuvenating herbs 5,000 years ago. In ancient China, tonic

herbs

were referred to as " superior " or " imperial " herbs and were used daily by the

wisest

and wealthiest people. The main function of a tonic is to maintain wellness with

an

emphasis on staying well more than getting cured.

Adaptogenic herbs are considered phytomedicines or natural product remedies

based on plants. They can be considered a sub-category of herbal tonics because

they rejuvenate the body and increase vital energy. The Russians introduced the

term " adaptogen " in the 1960s simply to distinguish the tonic action of Siberian

ginseng from other herbs. Herbalists from other parts of the world expanded the

term

" adaptogen " to include the ability to increase the body's resistance to stress

by

stimulating a " non-specific response " in adapting to stress.

Adaptogens have the unique ability to switch from stimulating to sedating

effects

based on the body's needs--thus correcting dysfunctions and producing a

biological

state of balance. One example would be Panax ginseng which can either raise or

lower blood pressure depending on the circumstances. Adaptogens also produce an

increase in the power of resistance against multiple (physical, chemical or

environmental) stressors. Simply, adaptogens help the body adapt to stress,

support

normal functions and restore balance.

Adaptogenic herbs

Adaptogenic herbs are not generally used for specific ailments, but to increase

overall adaptive tonic energy that may help patients adapt to both physical and

mental stress, and achieve better health and vitality.

Individual adaptogenic herbs are known for having actions that are rejuvenating

(tonic); they work to increase physical and mental stamina. Most of the herbs

also

are anti-inflammatory and support the immune system. Others protect the liver,

heart and revitalize the nerves. In many studies, adaptogens have shown to

protect

against cancer, reduce the side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs, and increase

resistance to the effects of radiation and chemical carcinogens.

Herbalists have come up with a list of primary adaptogens that have been

thoroughly

researched and proven over time to have positive health results. In addition,

these

adaptogenic herbs are nontoxic even when used for prolonged periods of time,

have

no contraindications and are synergistic with other herbs. (Note: One should

consult

a qualified professional who knows the benefits of herbs for any personal health

recommendations.)

Primary adaptogens

The following six primary adaptogens are all tonic, anti-inflammatory and

enhance

the immune system. They all help increase adaptive energy and improve stress

defense. A few of their other health promotion benefits are listed:

* Eleuthero (formally called Siberian ginseng). This has been used to increase

energy, treat back pain and arthritis, and may be best suited for the " average "

American who is overstressed.

* Holy Basil (not to be confused with culinary sweet basil). This has a long

tradition

of use in Ayurvedic medicine and is one of the most potent general adaptogens

known. It's used to lower cholesterol and stress-related high blood pressure. It

also

offers protection from radiation and supports the liver and lungs. Holy Basil

can be

enjoyed as a simple herbal tea and is often called by its Hindi name, Tulsi.

* Panax ginseng (sometimes called Asian, Chinese or Korean ginseng) is used in

traditional Chinese medicine to restore energy and may be one of the most

stimulating of the adaptogens. It is also used for depression, exhaustion and as

a

male sexual tonic.

* Ashwaganda (Withania). This is a calming adaptogen and traditionally used for

insomnia, arthritis and nervous conditions.

* Rhodiola. This is used as a cardiotonic and for mental stress and as a memory

enhancer.

* Schisandra. This is used for exhaustion and very useful as part of a protocol

for

hepatitis, asthma or nervous system disorders.

A few other primary adaptogens include: Green Tea, one of the most widely

consumed beverages in the world, which is anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and has

anti-oxidant properties; Turmeric, which is anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and

liver

protective; and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), which is often used for

" middle-age " fatigue and menopause.

Being aware of what you purchase

Adaptogenic herbs support a healthy, balanced response to stress and provide

natural support for healthy stress management. As such, they are highly

beneficial

for most patients. Since many of our health imbalances are interrelated, it is

best to

take combinations of adaptogenic herbs to support different body systems.

Because we live in an age of marketing and striving for more energy and better

health is popular, various herbs are promoted as " adaptogens. " Please beware of

what you buy, the reputation of the company and the quality of the product.