The term “adaptogen” has been shouted from health food labels for years. You may have heard it tossed around on a television show or in an article online. Without understanding what an adaptogen is, all of these references will mean nothing. With the knowledge of an adaptogen’s properties and uses, you can make informed decisions about healthy foods and what to use in your daily diet.

What Are Adaptogens?

Some herbs and mushrooms that are believed to have health benefits are known as adaptogens. They are thought to bring a variety of perks, such as helping stabilize your body and reducing the effects of stress.

There have been many tests conducted with adaptogens to determine if these claims are true. While more controlled testing on humans is required to discover the full effects of adaptogens, the current tests have confirmed that they have a positive effect.

Adaptogens include:

● Herbs such as ginseng and holy basil

● Mushrooms (cordyceps, reishi and many others)

Many indigenous tribes and ancient forms of medicine use adaptogens in natural remedies around the world.

The Beginnings of Adaptogens

The herbs and mushrooms that are now called adaptogens have been used by Indigenous groups around the world to treat small maladies and increase overall well-being for centuries. They are often ingested through an adaptogen drink or food. However, they were not formally recognized by the scientific community until the mid 1900s.

At this point, countries were searching for substances that could improve the performance of their soldiers, as the Cold War was a large threat. While adaptogens do not provide massive improvements, they can help reduce stress, anxiety and fatigue, and aid the body in establishing stability.

Today, adaptogens are still used in natural and herbal remedies to help keep your body healthy and return it to its natural state. Taken in an appropriate dosage, adaptogens can supplement a regular diet, but they should not be taken to resolve chronic stress or anxiety.

Creating an Adaptogen Drink or Meal

Because adaptogens have gained popularity among the natural health community, adaptogen blends can be found in many stores. Typically found in a blend of both herbs and mushrooms, you can use these powders as supplements in regular food.

An adaptogen drink, such as a smoothie or tea, can be tasty and relaxing. If taken through tea, one gains a greater sense of calm and stress relief, as hot tea typically has a relaxing effect.

Adaptogen powders can also be used in meals to supplement spices for flavor and texture. In these cases, you should experiment in small doses to understand the unique flavors of the adaptogen blends. The many herbs and mushrooms involved can create distinct flavors that may not blend well with some spices.

If the flavor of an adaptogen drink or meal doesn’t suit your taste, but you’d like to test the effects, you could try adaptogen pills. These fit the adaptogen blends into small pills that can be taken for a small boost throughout the day.

Commercially Available Adaptogens

If at-home flavor experimentation is not on your comfort level, or you simply don’t have time, there are many commercial products that include adaptogens. Many health food options, such as granola bars or crackers can contain adaptogens.

Many natural drinks that provide a less processed and healthier boost of energy also use adaptogen blends. Because adaptogens have been used across the globe for centuries, there are many different blends, each with a unique flavor.

Finding an adaptogen drink to fit your taste and energy needs can be difficult, but with enough searching it can be done. Looking for natural energy drinks or teas is a great step. Trying them out can be a fun adventure. Once you find the blend that works for you, remember to use it as a supplement in moderation, as exceptionally large doses could be harmful rather than helpful.

An adaptogen drink or meal can provide a relaxing and helpful boost to your well-being. Understanding the history of adaptogens, some of the herbs and mushrooms classified as adaptogens, where to find them and how to use them can be very useful. With this knowledge, you can supplement your diet with adaptogens and enjoy all their benefits.