Adaptogens – What are They and What Do They Do?
Native to the Amazon, adaptogens are non-toxic plants with incredible health benefits that have gained popularity worldwide. These Amazonian herbs and roots are herbal powerhouses with a long history of use in both Chinese and Ayurvedic healing traditions. Adaptogens can play a key role in building up immunity, replenishing tired cells, creating a sense of calmness in one’s body, and providing a healthy energy boost. With an assortment of health benefits, it is no wonder Amazon adaptogens are revered as magical sources of life by Indigenous cultures of the Brazilian Amazon. Small but powerful, Amazon adaptogens have a lot to offer.
Loaded with Nutrients
Amazon adaptogens are renowned for the incredible concentration of nutrients found in each plant. Everyone knows oranges are good sources of vitamin C, but not everyone knows that the adaptogen camu camu boasts 30 to 50 times more vitamin C than the beloved orange. This small berry packs a nutritional punch with high levels of amino acids, beta carotene, calcium, potassium, vitamin B, flavonoids, and phytonutrient content.
The high nutrient count is common amongst Amazon adaptogens, and like the camu camu berry, soursop is another example of the incredible nutrient concentration found in adaptogens. The tropical fruit is known for its sweetness and ability to treat a number of physical ailments. It is rich in fibers and contains abundant vitamin C and several B vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin and niacin, along with calcium, phosphorus and iron.
Sources of Natural Energy
The energy drink market is a massive industry that is often under critical speculation regarding health risks and side effects. Most commercial energy drinks are packed full of additives and refined sugar, and while providing a short burst of energy, most typically result in the dreaded energy crash. Unlike processed energy drinks, Amazon adaptogens are able to give the body a natural energy boost without the afternoon lull. One of the most popular adaptogens used for its energy boosting ability is guarana. The fruit is native to Brazil and Venezuela and has been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples throughout the Amazon. This Amazon adaptogen contains caffeine along with other natural stimulants that work together to give the central nervous system, heart, and hardworking muscles a boost.
Guarana isn’t the only energy powerhouse amongst Amazon adaptogens. Pfaffia paniculata, also known as ‘Brazilian Ginseng’, is another heavy hitter that has been used for hundreds of years by Indigenous groups as an energy booster. Not only does the root serve as a natural source of energy, it has also been used by Indigenous peoples to heal wounds, balance blood sugar, and relieve chronic pain. Proponents of the Brazilian superfood praise the roots for its ability to prevent premature aging, strengthen the immune system, and improve mental activity.
Natural Muscle Relaxants and Sleep-Aids
Amazon adaptogens have long been used to provide relief to sore muscles and also encourage deep rest. For those who suffer from fitful sleeps, Amazon adaptogens can provide much needed relief. Select adaptogens, such as the passionflower, have sedative qualities that provide gentle relief for insomnia. Adaptogens like the passionflower work to relax twitching and relieve tension in muscles. Passion fruit acts as a natural stress and anxiety reliever, earning the title of a popular relaxing tonic. In addition to helping users have deeper sleeps, Amazon adaptogens can provide a sense of calm to an overexcited nervous system and provide relaxation for strained muscles. Indigenous peoples have used adaptogens for centuries to provide relief for a variety of ailments, and these natural remedies provide much needed relief without a long list of side effects common to commercial sleeping medications.
Incorporating Amazon Adaptogens into a Healthy Lifestyle
Amazon adaptogens have earned the title of natural powerhouses with their natural energy boosting qualities and high concentration of vital nutrients. There are a variety of adaptogens that can be used for different health purposes, so taking the time to research the different plants and their uses will help consumers pinpoint the right adaptogens for their needs. Adaptogens will bring a number of benefits to those that use them, but these herbal remedies are not cure-alls, nor can they replace sleep and a healthy diet. Amazon adaptogens work best when paired with a healthy lifestyle and are a great supplement for anyone looking for natural ways to improve their wellbeing.