Adaptogens

Adaptogens are herbs and other substances that increase our ability to adapt, and are used for a variety of reasons such as to support us as we age, to build resilience, to regulate our immune system, to help with all sorts of degenerative diseases, to regulate our metabolism, to help with fatigue, to increase survival, in sports medicine…and to help us handle stress better. 

Adaptogens is really a Russian term, and the concept was developed there with such herbs as Siberian ginseng, Rhodiola and Schisandra.  Adaptogens are also known by different names in different cultures. In Ayurveda, they might be known as a rasayana, which includes herbs such as gotu kola and ashwagandha. In Traditional Chinese Medicine ,medicines which restore chi (vital force) or harmony in the body might be called tonics. We also call herbs with these types of properties ‘tonics’ in Western Herbal Medicine, although there are subtle differences in the different approaches. 

One of the most well known adaptogens with absolutely heaps of research behind it, not to mention the use by billions of people over many centuries and probably thousands of years, is ginseng, specifically panax ginseng but also other varieties. It can really help build some resilience and give energy where there is depletion. It has been shown in studies to help lower inflammation benefit brain function, boost immunity, increase energy levels, improve erectile dysfunction, and help against cancer. 

It is easy to take, there are many products on the market, and is a good daily tonic for many elderly people.