Skip to main content

BlissMark may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Should you be taking an adaptogen?

Feeling the pressure? We hear you loud and clear–life is full of stressful triggers. If you want to boost your body’s ability to manage anxiety, consider adding an adaptogen to your routine. It’s a “natural” way to give yourself a bit of an edge whilst dealing with every day’s stream of worries and woes. What’s more, some types of adaptogens can be good for your overall health. Want to know more? We’re breaking down the basics with some easy-to-digest do’s and don’ts.

adaptogens and herbs
marilyn barbone/ Shutterstock

What are adaptogens?

As indicated by their very apropos name, adaptogens are herbal supplements that can help the body and mind adapt to outside stress by regulating hormones.

Related Videos

When life gets hairy, our bodies physically react with a release of cortisol, the stress hormone. Adaptogens, however, can tame this sudden surge, helping you sustain your energy level and cope more readily. In this same vein, they can also stave off the fatigue that often follows that fight-or-flight response. In other words, they can give you the strength, capacity, and wherewithal to work through stress, and face the music.

What’s more, research has shown that some adaptogens can fight exhaustion, improve mental acuity, reduce symptoms of depression, and alleviate anxiety.

What health benefits do they offer?

Different adaptogens can help you better cope with stress and anxiety, lead to enhanced quality sleep, reduce exhaustion level, and sharpen your brain’s functionality. Stress has a variety of negative consequences for your health, from rapid weight gain or loss to high blood pressure.

While adaptogens are most commonly used for their mental health benefits, some variations have physical benefits as well. For example, Chaga, a type of mushroom, can enhance the radiance of your complexion. Other types are known to lower blood sugar, boost immunity, and help with digestive problems.

What are the caveats of taking adaptogens?

Incorporating adaptogens into your routine is not as simple as taking a vitamin once a day. There are some important factors to keep in mind as you explore the world of adaptogens.

  • Consider the time of day: If you are taking an adaptogen to awaken your mind and feel sharper, take it earlier in the day. If the supplement has a meditative, calming effect take it in the evening hours.
  • Don’t overdo it: Follow the specific dosing instructions, and don’t experiment too much. Yes, these are herbal supplements, but you can have too much of a good thing. If, after a few weeks, you find that your adaptogen isn’t really doing its thing, try a different variety.
  • The definitive proof is inconclusive: While there is early evidence that adaptogens can be beneficial to your mental and physical health, long-term studies of efficacy and safety are not conclusive.
  • They are not cure-alls: These supplements will not eliminate stress, eradicate anxiety, or cure depression. This is simply one of the many treatments you can use to manage your mental health. Consider using these in tandem with therapy, medication, and regular diet and exercise.
  • Talk to your doctor: Before starting any new supplement or health-care routine, you should speak to a healthcare professional. Whether you are taking an adaptogen to fight fatigue, stave off stress, or aid digestion, it’s best practice to consult a doctor first.
  • Beware of side effects: Just because these are plant-based substances, doesn’t mean that they can’t carry potential side effects. Furthermore, some adaptogens may interfere with medications you are taking, so do your research before buying or trying.
herbal supplements
PhotobyTawat/ Shutterstock

What adaptogens should I take? 

Not all adaptogens are created equal, and there are a variety of options that offer unique benefits. Do your due diligence to find the de-stressing adaptogen that is right for you.

  • Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) – Goji berry has a soothing effect and can foster a sense of peace. Additionally, it can alleviate stress, enhance sleep, and improve memory and mental clarity.
  • Tulsi or Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) – These herbs assuage physical and emotional stress and can have depression-relieving effects. It’s also a good option to combat “brain fog.”
  • Turmeric – This supplement is great for brain health, and can help your overall mental performance.
  • Ginseng and Maca – Both of these adaptogens are great for fighting off fatigue, keeping you naturally alert and awake.
  • Try a blend – Opt for an adaptogen blend that meets your needs. You can add this “balancing” option to your morning smoothie.

Want to feel happier, healthier, calmer, and more content? Consider trying an adaptogen. But, as with all supplements, take it slow, do your research, and talk to your doctor.

BlissMark provides information regarding health, wellness, and beauty. The information within this article is not intended to be medical advice. Before starting any diet or exercise routine, consult your physician. If you don’t have a primary care physician, the United States Health & Human Services department has a free online tool that can help you locate a clinic in your area. We are not medical professionals, have not verified or vetted any programs, and in no way intend our content to be anything more than informative and inspiring.

Editors' Recommendations

You’ll love these products to help you unwind
the best lotions for extremely dry skin

Self-care is a buzzword that you’ve probably seen floating around social media or somewhere on television. Some ways to exercise self-care can vary from person to person. For some, practicing self-care might be going on a weekend road trip. For others, it might mean getting a massage. No matter how you decide to practice it, it’s important to take a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re a student, working professional, mother, or just need some time to yourself, you might consider some helpful products for making the most of your recreational time.

You can maximize your weekends by using these products to help you unwind. Whether it’s for the weekend or a long vacation, taking care of yourself in all areas of your life is necessary to leading a happy and healthy life. With many people now working from home, it’s even easier to work on a relaxing art project during your lunch break or after work. Making sure that you’re mental and physical health is taken care of can even help you become a more productive student, employee or parent. When your mind and body are healthy, you shine from the inside out. Take advantage of some of these useful products and start celebrating yourself today.

Read more
Fun gear for the bicycle enthusiast
Woman on a bike overlooking the ocean

People ride bicycles for all sorts of different reasons. Bikes can be functional as a means of transportation if you don’t have a car or if you are trying to save a little bit of money with gas prices being so outrageous. They can be good for your health, providing a low-impact cardio workout that is excellent for your heart. You can even join a local cycling group to help you grow your social circle! No matter why you choose to ride, these items are perfect for any bicycle aficionado.

Are you ready to make your next ride wheelie terrific?  From storage to saddles, there's sure to be something on this list for every cyclist whether you ride for necessity, exercise, or pleasure. When it's time for a more comfortable saddle, or you just want to treat yourself to a stylish pair of cycle socks, you won't grow tired of these goodies!

Read more
Essential items for foot care
person stretching their toe and heel

Here are some essential items we need for proper foot care. We often take our feet for granted. We wear tight shoes that constrict our toes and provide little if any air circulation. Is it any wonder we often have problems with our toe nails? There are several things that can make toe nails tough to cut. Certain physical conditions like diabetes can lead to thicker nails. Fungus growth can make nails not only thick, but also uneven. The pressure from tight shoes can create pressure and the start of ingrown toenails. All these problems need to be addressed and making sure we have a habit of frequent foot care is a good idea for our health.

Here are some essential items we may need to help us care for our feet and toenails.

Read more