These Are the 6 Adaptogens You Need to Boost Your Mood and Combat Stress

February 24, 2020 by Rory Carter

Have you heard? Adaptogens are 2020's newest wellness trend. The all-natural herbs have been around for centuries and are commonly used in Chinese and Ayurvedic traditional medicine and are now set to take off this year as a natural supplement to help with stress and mental function, immunity and overall physical health. The natural supplements get their name from the fact that they're designed to help you and your body adapt to new (sometimes stressful) conditions and environments so that you're better equipped to face inevitable challenges. Unlike prescription medications, adaptogens don't interfere with your body's natural processes, instead working behind the scenes to help you naturally alleviate stress and even improve your sleep patterns. These are the six adaptogens you should incorporate into your daily tea or smoothie to experience the benefits for yourself.

1. Rhodiola

Rhodiola is a good one for anyone who's finding themselves a bit run down and fatigued at the moment. When taken over a consistent period, this stress-buster will naturally bring your body back to a state of ideal homeostasis. This all-natural adaptogen can both calm your nerves (cortisol levels) as well as energising you if you're lacking energy. It's the double duty herb you can't live without.

2. St John's Wort

You might have seen this one on the shelves of your local pharmacy before, and is often used as a natural remedy to help relieve some of the symptoms associated with depression. St John's wort has been shown to improve mood by suppressing the breakdown of serotonin which will naturally leave you feeling lighter.

3. Licorice Root

This one's a little bit different to the tasty treat you might be used to. Licorice root has long been used for adrenal support while naturally helping to regulate stress levels in the body. This healing adaptogen has a familiar, sweet taste that's great for adding to your afternoon tea to get you through to the end of the day.

4. Ginseng

Ginseng is a mainstay of traditional Chinese medicine and is one of the best-known adaptogens out there. One of its active ingredients, ginsenoside has been shown to effectively reduce inflammation in the body while increasing immunity which helps to fight off bacteria and nasty illnesses. Ginseng is also a great adaptogen to take for an increase in focus, sexual function, and a boost in energy.

5. Holy Basil

Not only can Holy Basil help to keep feelings of stress at bay, but it can also reduce blood sugar levels and protect the liver. In Ayurvedic medicine, this adaptogen has a wide range of uses, from treating skin conditions to dealing with pesky coughs and common colds.

6. Lemon Balm

A member of the mint family, this zesty adaptogen has so many benefits it would be easier to list what it can't help with. Lemon balm, in partnership with calming herbs like chamomile, can help you to fall asleep easier without anxious thoughts running through your mind. As well as that, this rejuvenating herb has been shown to improve your mood and even help with poor appetite issues that can leave you feeling lethargic (and grumpy).

While we have you, these are the 7 superfoods to eat for your clearest skin yet.