What Are Adaptogens?

The term "adaptogen" is used to describe any plant or herb that has the ability to regulate and return your body's functions back to normal levels. Though the Chinese, Vikings, and Russians had utilized adaptogenic herbs in their medicinal practices, Dr. N.V. Lazarev, a Russian scientist, was the first person to keep meticulous records indicating plants that have characteristics of what he later named "adaptogens."

History of Adaptogens

• Dr. Israel I. Brekhman, PhD, is credited for conducting extensive studies on adaptogens and their respective benefits. Following the coining of the new term, this professor of medicine and physiological pharmacologist compiled a list of essential characteristics and criteria for an herb or plant to be considered a true adaptogen.

To Be a True Adaptogen...

• Specific characteristics must be fulfilled for a plant or herb to be considered a true adaptogen. Adaptogens must in some ways help your body adapt to different factors that cause stress on your body. They should not cause harm to the body nor cause any side effects. In addition, adaptogens will not add to your body's stresses in any way, only help to alleviate or regulate stresses.

Multiple Functions

• Stress is inevitable no matter what careers our direction our lives take. Adaptogens help you deal with stress factors by bringing your body back to a state of balanced equilibrium. Adaptogens can lower or raise blood pressure and blood sugar levels, lower the possibility for the onset of depression, as well as help your immune system gain resistance to diseases. They can also improve overall mental function, increase energy levels, and help you enjoy fitful rest night after night.

Adaptogenic Herbs and Plants

• Adaptogens include Ashwaganda, Eleuthero, Rhodiola, and Schisandra. Ashwaganda improves weakness or fatigue. Eleuthero has several benefits; it normalizes blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, regulates blood sugar and strengthens the adrenal glands. Rhodiola helps treat fatigue, improves overall work performance, lighten symptoms of depression and helps your body develop a stronger resistance to stresses. Schisandra prevents night sweats and allows you to enjoy fitful sleep, improves sexual function, promotes prolonged physical endurance. In addition, the seeds of the Schisandra promote healthy liver function.

Final Notes

• While studies on adaptogens have shown their strong abilities to lessen the symptoms of depression and lessen the effects of chronic stresses on your body that may lead to cancer, this does not necessarily mean adaptogens will cure these conditions. Always consult your physician before ingesting any adaptogen extracts or supplements.