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Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could take something and become resistant to the effects of stress? Stress is something we all live with everyday and the hormonal derangements caused by chronic stress contribute to all chronic diseases and aging.

Though we generally consider stress something to be tolerated, when stress becomes ominous, many people turn to drug therapy. Pharmaceuticals do work on a certain level, but drug therapy is associated with, well, “drug-like” effects and is often accompanied by side effects. If we were going to design the ideal substance for stress resistance it would not have the targeted effect of the drugs available today, but it would have an overall normalizing effect on all systems of the body. Fortunately, Mother Nature is way ahead of us; many natural substances already exist that fit this description. Collectively they are referred to as adaptogens.

Adaptogens, by definition, are substances that have a very low potential for toxicity, do not have targeted effects on any one organ system, but have an overall balancing or normalizing effect on all the functional systems of the body. There are many natural substances from around the world that fit this definition and most have been used by humans for thousands of years. We know a lot about many of the adaptogens from several sources. Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine (traditional medicine in India) have been observing and recording the use of adaptogens for thousands of years. More recently, the Russians during the cold war conducted an extensive science experiment in search of substances that would increase human endurance and performance. Their scientific documentation of substances classified as adaptogens from around the world is quite extensive and thorough.

Possibly the most well-known and studied adaptogen is ginseng. Ginseng is mildly stimulating, but unlike caffeine, invigorates production of energy in the body, instead of expending it. My favorite adaptogen is ashwagandha. Native to India and Africa, ashwagandha is derived from the root of a plant distantly related to the tomato. This mildly sedating adaptogen is particularly useful for unraveling hormonal imbalances associated with stress and menopause. Russian research, looking for adaptogens that occurred closer to home, defined eleuthero and rhodiola as having stress-relieving properties. Some herbs classified as adaptogens do have some preferential tendencies. Astragalus is known for its ability to stimulate the immune system. Schisandra has been associated with improved learning capacity and mental function. Licorice supports adrenal function. For just about any stress-related condition there are adaptogens and other supportive herbs that Mother Nature has provided to fit the need.

Categories: Menopause, Stress Relief,

Previous Comments

Mike Eastman- Oct 23, 2009

Thanks for the information. For the record, Schisandra also assists with stress management! I have been taking it for 2+ years and have found it to be helpful in keeping up with a hectic schedule.

Harry Foster- Oct 26, 2009

I am currently taking Theanine for calming/focus. Is it safe to take Ashwagandha at the same time?

Dr. Rawls- Oct 26, 2009

Thanks for your question, Harry. Theanine and ashwagandha are both very safe products and will be fine to take together. In fact, they tend to compliment each other very well! For optimal stress relief, consider taking a Theanine supplement that contains Relora.

Lisa DiNuzzo- Apr 25, 2012

I need to know a trusted site to research these supplements further, each time I try, especially about ginseng, I find that it says that Ginseng is dangerous if taken too often.