Adaptogens 101: What You Need To Know

The Almighty Ginseng

One of the most well-known adaptogen, Asian ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, is considered by experts to be the most potent and has proven to improve calmness and anxiety, as well as enhance memory performance in adults, while also providing valuable antioxidants and nutrients to the body. Panax ginseng has also be observed to reduce ulcer index, adrenal gland weight (associated with stress), blood glucose levels, triglycerides, creatine kinase (an enzyme associated with stress or injury-related damage of the circulatory system), and serum corticosterone (a stress-related hormone).

Overall, researchers have concluded ginseng possesses the necessary anti-stress properties that can be used to treat stress-induced disorders, such as anxiety, and that this ancient plant blocks ACTH action in the adrenal gland, which leads to stress.

All Hail Holy Basil

Holy basil - also known as tulsi - is one of India's most potent herbs and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over three thousand years. It is a delicious leaf that is used in some Thai sauces and dishes and is an antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant believed to help with cholesterol, lower blood pressure, reduce seizure activity. Tulsi also fights bacteria and kills specific types of fungi, combats viral infections, protects the liver, reduces pain symptoms, and promotes healthy immune system function.

Holy basil is also known to help health-related problems related to the nervous system, such as supporting memory and cognitive function, recovery from head trauma, and as a treatment for depression. Its immune-stimulating properties are also believed to help with environmental allergens. It can be used in its traditional form as a tonic, but also as a tea to help fight bronchitis and to ease nausea and vomiting.