By Contributing Beauty Editor, Anna Maria Giambanco DiPietro
By now you’ve probably heard some buzz about adaptogens, but what’s the deal, and why are they generating so much interest?
Adaptogens are plants that help our bodies combat and even prevent physical and emotional stress. Ayurvedic and Chinese practitioners have worked with adaptogenic roots and herbs for hundreds of years. To use an Ayurvedic term, adaptogens can restore sattva or balance. From regulating our mood, supporting immunity, helping with sleep issues and energy levels to enhancing mental performance, adaptogens are touted as an herbal holy grail of sorts. Here’s a brief breakdown of a few adaptogens:
Ashwagandha
This evergreen shrub grows in Africa and India where its berries and roots are used for their healing properties. Ayurveda refers to ashwagandha as a “Rasayana”, or tonic. Commonly prescribed to reduce stress, as it has anti-inflammatory properties, lowers blood pressure, and helps quell anxiety by calming the brain. Read more about ashwagandha here.
Siberian Ginseng
The Siberian Ginseng root is used to boost immunity, lower blood sugar levels and increase mental alertness. Siberian Ginseng helps lessen the intensity of a cold if administered within 72 hours of feeling ill. Studies have also found it to help lessen the frequency and severity of Herpes Simple outbreaks. Read more about Siberian Ginseng here.
Licorice Root
Grown in Southern Europe and Western Asia, Licorice Root has been used to help myriad ailments for centuries. The pharaohs even sipped a refreshing licorice root beverage back in the day to soothe upset stomachs and treat respiratory issues. This root helps to treat acid reflux, heartburn, coughs, and even hot-flashes. Adding a sprinkle to a pot of hot water then inhaling the licorice-infused steam helps soothe aggravated brachial nodes, helping with coughs and allergies. Learn more about Licorice Root here.
Moringa
Also known as the tree of life or drumstick tree, Moringa has helped people with its anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties for hundreds of years. Loaded with vitamin A, C, and B6, as well as magnesium, iron, and riboflavin, this powerhouse herb wears many hats. Learn more about Moringa here.
You need not visit an herbalist or invest in a tome on plant medicine in order to bring the healing magic of adaptogenic herbs into your life. This month, we offer up a few easy ways to integrate them into your routine without a major investment of time or money. Whether sipping them in a bedtime tea, popping a capsule, or enjoying an alcohol-free adaptogenic cocktail, we’ve got several ways to enjoy these healing herbs. Check out a few of our fave adaptogenic products, and scroll down for our Coco Eco Alcohol-Free Beauty Elixir Bevvie Recipe.
$38 USD
Infused, flavorful, and antioxidant-rich Elderberry with fragrant and adaptogenic Holy Basil, leaves for a combination unlike any other! The functional ingredients selected for this infusion support the immune system, aid in sinus and lung respiratory wellness, and support occasional stress.
PC: Moringa Vinga
$23.95 USD
A three-pack Flavor includes 1 jar (7 bites) of each: Chocolate & Toasted Nut, Chocolate Raspberry, and White Chocolate & Cherry. Crafted with ashwagandha, a superfood which according to ancient wisdom, helps our bodies positively adapt to everyday stress. 5% of net profits to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. They provide nationwide services and support to victims and survivors of domestic violence.
PC: Empowered Bakery
$15.94 USD
Includes clinically studied ingredients that support focus (naturally fermented GABA), relaxation without drowsiness (Theanine from green tea), and resistance to stress (Ashwagandha extract).
PC: Jarrow Formulas
$13.99 USD
With a long and diverse history, Licorice root is one of the most widely used herbs worldwide, and one of the most popular herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine today. Licorice root is traditionally taken to support gastrointestinal (GI) tract health.
PC: Gaia Herbs
Coco Eco Alcohol-Free Beauty Elixir Bevvie Recipe
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