1 Panax Ginseng
One of the more well-known adaptogenic herbs, Panax ginseng, or Asian ginseng, is a common herb used in Chinese medicine, and it is actually quite easy to find. The active chemical in Panax ginseng is ginsenoside, which has a steroid-like component and can help relieve stress and anxiety. It can also help in recovering from bacterial infections. More typically, Panax ginseng is used to slow the aging process and improve cognitive function. Two other benefits of this herb are its ability to help control blood sugar and improve circulation.
Ashwagandha is an herb that is often used in Ayurvedic medicine for its restorative benefits. It is actually often referred to as Indian Ginseng because of its similar adaptogenic properties, although it has no relation to ginseng. Ashwagandha strengthens the immune system, combats stress, improves memory, and decreases anxiety. It also has anti-malarial properties and can act as an anti-inflammatory. Over 216 studies have been conducted on the benefits of ashwagandha, and many of them have been promising.
While all the adaptogenic herbs help combat stress, rhodiola rosea is supposed to be one of the best herbs for stress. It grows in mountainous regions and has been used in Russia, Siberia, and China for over 2,000 years for various health problems. Some of the health problems that rhodiola rosea has been used for include viral infections, heart problems, and liver problems. It actually has an ability to protect the liver from damage that can be caused by alcohol or some prescription medications.
Codonopsis root is native to Asia and is also known as Dang Shen. It is particularly helpful for adrenal exhaustion as it decreases stress and increases stamina. Adrenal exhaustion occurs when you experience long periods of stress, which taxes the adrenal glands because they produce the stress hormones. Eventually, your adrenal glands can’t keep up and you can experience exhaustion. Taking codonopsis root can help your adrenal glands recover. Additionally, it can help with other issues such as high blood pressure, muscular tension, and poor digestion.
Holy basil, or Tulsi, has been an important herb in the Hindu religion for thousands of years. It is considered a very powerful herb because it has so many benefits. Holy basil traditionally has been used for its antimicrobial properties, which have helped with illnesses like bronchitis. More recently, it has been used for its neuroprotective benefits during radiation therapy. It has also been shown to be useful for mental confusion, ADHD, and menopause symptoms. Typically, holy basil is served as a tea, which is actually found at most health food stores.
Licorice root is commonly used in Chinese medicine. It has immunomodulating effects, acts as an antioxidant, has antiviral properties, and helps fight inflammation. Additionally, licorice root is another herb that helps with adrenal exhaustion. Licorice root has also been used to purify the liver and blood and help the heart and spleen function properly. You need to be careful using licorice root because it can cause blood pressure to rise, so it is not recommended for people with high blood pressure.
Often combined with ginseng, astragalus is one of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It stimulates the immune system and has antiviral properties, which make it a great herb for cold and flu season. Like all the other adaptogenic herbs, it also helps people recover from illnesses and fight fatigue. Astragalus also can help heart conditions by lowering blood pressure and relaxing the blood vessels. Although it has many benefits, people with autoimmune diseases should avoid astragalus because it can increase their symptoms.