You’ve seen it all over Instagram — fitness influencers mixing powders into their smoothies, matchas and bulletproof coffees like a modern day witch, but do you know what adaptogens really are?
Adaptogens are essentially a class of plants that are thought to help the body fight stressors and promote balance. These adaptogenic plants have been used for hundreds of years in a numerous cultures, from Chinese and Russian to Indian and Scandinavian.
Sun Potion and Moon Juice are two of the most buzzed-about brands in the adaptogens arena right now, making it super cool to get onboard. While it’s a simple, fuss-free way to start adding these herbs into your lifestyle, adding them as powders into your drinks means you may get minimal effects from them, and you’re definitely not going to experience changes from one-time use. Liquid extracts tend to be more potent as this process sees the herb through a pre-digestion process, pulling out some of the important constituents that your body will use.
If you’re under the care of a doctor, you should speak to them before adding adaptogens to your diet because they may change things.
Common Adaptogens to Try:
With roots in Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is one of the most common adaptogens in the market today. Modern studies have reinforced the herb’s potential to reduce stress and anxiety in adults. You can consume them both in capsule form, or in powder by brands such as Sun Potion and Moon Juice who’ve put the herb together with others to create specific blends to help various needs. Try their spirit dust to help alleviate stress.
Reishi Mushroom Powder (Organic)
Turn to Reishi if you want something with anti-ageing benefits; reishi mushrooms reduces dermal oxidation and help enhance immune response. It is a little bitter and earthy, so scoop it into your smoothie and blend to mask the taste.
Changa have become a core part of natural medicine across Europe; the mushrooms are one of the richest sources of antioxidants in nature. They used to reduce inflammation and boost immunity. You’ll first notice a difference with your hair and nails — they become stronger. Mix with hot water and sip it straight up like a tea.
Cordyceps will help tired skin. Also a mushroom, Cordyceps contain beta-glucans, which are believed to have antioxidant properties. Cordyceps have been described to taste nutty, savoury, salty with a hint of cocoa from the smell.
If you’re desperate for skin hydration, moringa should be your answer. It’s chock full of protein and Vitamins A, C, E, beta-carotene and phenolics. Though be warned, this one may taste like you’re eating grass.
