Adaptogenic drinks are prepared on the basis of herbs or mushrooms, whose positive effects on the human body have been used for millennia in folk medicine. Today, science is increasingly focusing on these treasures of nature, examining their beneficial effects on the condition of the body and mind.
In traditional Chinese medicine or Ayurveda, people used natural plant extracts to treat many diseases, but also to support body functions. Ashwagandha, Rhodiola rosea or maca root were often used. These plants were believed to have a beneficial effect on the body and mind.
Adaptogenic drinks are becoming more and more popular today. They draw heavily on the experience of traditional medicine. The properties of the plants used are also becoming the subject of research by scientists, who increasingly confirm their composition and action supporting the natural mechanism of the human body.
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Plants called adaptogens work differently than stimulants, e.g. caffeine. They support the body’s balance and strengthen the natural mechanisms responsible for stimulation, increased concentration and better coping with stress. Herbal extracts in the form of dried or powder are used to prepare teas, decoctions or milk-based drinks. They can easily replace your morning coffee or matcha.
Natural plants, herbs and mushrooms called adaptogens are used to prepare adaptogenic drinks. This concept comes from the Latin word adaptation meaning “to adapt”. These are plants that naturally occur they help the body adapt to physical and mental stress by increasing their adaptive capabilities and helping to maintain homeostasis, i.e. balance in the body. The most commonly used include:
- ashwagandha – otherwise called Indian ginseng, it is an important plant in Ayurvedic medicine. It helps lower cortisol, reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
- Rhodiola rosea – also called arctic root, is a plant naturally occurring in circumpolar regions. in which it was used, they add energy, increase concentration and endurance.
- Tulsi – Asian basil, comes from Asia. It relieves stress and improves well-being and immunity.
- Grzyb Reishi – in Poland known as yellowish lac. In Japan it is called the longevity mushroom. Supports physical and mental immunity. Reduces fatigue.
- Kordyceps – this mushroom is very popular in Chinese medicine. It supports physical endurance, adds energy, increases libido and strengthens immunity.
- Maca root – is considered an aphrodisiac and superfood. It adds energy, strengthens libido and helps maintain hormonal balance.
- Ginseng – occurs naturally in Russia and China. In Russia it is an endangered species. It adds energy, improves concentration and cognitive functions, and increases resistance to stress.
Adaptogens also include, among others: turmeric, licorice root or astragalus. Each of these plants has a slightly different effect. Some stimulate, add energy and increase concentration, others allow you to calm down. For this reason, drinks based on them should be drunk at appropriate times in the morning to wake up and in the evening to calm down.
The effects of drinking adaptogenic drinks can be felt after a few days or weeks. The most important thing, however, is to maintain the regularity of their use. What are the health benefits of drinking adaptogenic drinks?
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Better coping with stress
Everyday life brings a lot of stressful situations. Many adaptogens affect the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which regulates the level of cortisol and stress hormones. In this way, the body is able to deal with the negative effects of stress faster and regain balance.
More energy
Adaptogenic drinks stimulate you, but for a longer time and evenly. Thanks to them, you will avoid sudden spikes and drops in energy that can be felt after drinking caffeine.
Greater concentration and mental clarity
Along with their stimulating effects, drinks can increase concentration and cognitive abilities. Thanks to them, you can handle many tasks faster.
Greater resistance to infections
Adaptogenic drinks support the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Thanks to this, you will avoid numerous viral infections, not only in the autumn and winter season.
Maintaining hormonal balance
Adaptogens support the proper functioning of the thyroid and adrenal glands, which helps maintain hormonal balance, especially during periods of chronic stress.
More restful and effective sleep
Adaptogenic drinks drunk in the evening make it easier to relax and fall asleep, and the sleep itself is more effective.
Greater endurance, efficiency and faster regeneration of the body
The benefits of drinking adaptogenic drinks can also support athletes in building better body performance, adaptation to exercise and better post-exercise regeneration.
Improving your overall health
Adaptogens are plant sources of antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support overall health.
The properties of adaptogens and their effect on the human body are the subject of a number of scientific studies. However, most of them are carried out on animals or in vitro. Human studies do not provide the full picture due to small control groups and results that differ from laboratory experiments. The problem is often choosing the dose of the supplement and obtaining the plant raw material from good quality breeding.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl, draxe.com
