
Adaptogens: Natures Remedy
Adaptogens are natural substances—typically herbs, mushrooms, and roots—that are believed to help the body adapt to stress, balance bodily functions, and promote homeostasis (internal stability). These plants are traditionally used in various cultures, particularly in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for their ability to support the body’s response to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors.
How Adaptogens Work:
Adaptogens are thought to influence the body's stress-response system by interacting with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates the release of hormones like cortisol, the primary stress hormone. By modulating the HPA axis, adaptogens are believed to support the body’s ability to handle both short-term and chronic stress more effectively. Additionally, some adaptogens help to balance other bodily systems such as immune function, energy levels, cognitive function, and hormonal balance.