Adaptogens to help stress
Stress affects everyone at some time, and chronic stress can cause incredible damage to the body—from the brain to the heart to the stomach to the intestines and even to the reproductive system. Stress can cause headaches, lack of energy, memory problems, increased blood pressure, weight gain, constipation, lowered libido, and more. Here are some adaptogens that have been shown to help battle stress:
What Are Adaptogens?
Encompassing a variety of natural medicines, adaptogens are herbs and plants that help the body’s adrenal system respond to physical, biological, and chemical stressors.
Ashwagandha: This herb from the nightshade family helps regulate cortisol, which is the body’s stress hormone. One of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic healing, it is excellent for battling emotional and physical stressors
Licorice root: When the body is under chronic mental and physical stress, the adrenal glands become exhausted from the constant release of cortisol.Licorice root has been shown to prevent the body from exhausting its store of cortisol to battle adrenal fatigue. It’s also popular for use with stomach ailments that are induced by stress.
Source: Adaptogenic Herbs and How to Use Them in Your Nutrition Practice
