Many plant medicines have extensive and well-rounded effects, but the true all-rounders are a group of plants called adaptogens. These wonder-plants are able to help the body and mind adapt to changing circumstances (hence the name!) and are superb for helping with stress and all its mental and physical effects.
Many ancient medicine systems have wonderful tonic herbs that can be used to promote health and balance many physiological functions. Called variously Qi tonics in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Rasayanas in Ayurveda, many of these plants have been subjected to modern investigation and testing, in most cases confirming their health giving properties. A large body of research is thanks to the Russians, who were looking for substances that they could give to their cosmonauts when they sent them into space, helping them to deal with the extreme and varied stresses of being in space. Plants such as Eleutherooccus (Siberian Ginseng) have been proven to do just that.
Adaptogen plants affect the hormonal, nervous and circulatory systems. They increase energy levels, balance over or under immune system responses and are generally anabolic - helping to build and and sustain the body, increasing strength and stamina. Many lower cholesterol levels, improve heart function, increase disease resistance and normalise metabolism.
Famous adaptogen plants include Panax Ginseng (Asian Ginseng), Withania somniferum (Ashwaganda), Asparagus racemosa (Shatavari), Glycyrrhiza glabra (Liquorice), Cordyceps and Reishi mushrooms, Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng), Sutherlandia frutescens (Cancer Bush) and Rhodiola rosea. Not all these plants are suitable for everyone, but generally they are extremely safe. However, if you feel that you are in need of some adaptogen help, it is best to see a knowledgeable practitioner who can individualise a prescription for you.
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