Adaptogens
You may have heard the word adaptogen in connection with natural health. What exactly are they?
They're herbs that support the body when it's under stress, specifically targeting the adrenal glands.
Many of these herbs have been used for 1000s of years for stress support.
Which herbs do this?
Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera, is one that many of you may have heard of. It seems to be talked about a lot in natural health. It also has actions that help with immune support and also has a mild sedative action. It is a traditional herb in Ayurvedic medicine.
Korean ginseng, Panax ginseng, is a superstar in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). In addition it is known to support immune function (including when there is cancer and as a cancer preventative) and for menopausal symptoms. Other ginsengs like Eleuthero and American ginseng are also adaptogenic.
Schisandra chinesis is another powerful TCM herb that also supports the liver.
Gotu Kola, Centella asiatica, is also wonderful support for the healing and connective tissue.
Tulsi, Ocimum tenuiflorum, is also a wonderful Ayurvedic herb that has many actions in addition to being an adaptogen, including support of immune function (including being anti-carcinogenic), blood sugar balance and as an antifungal.
Shatvari, Aspargaus racemosus, is also a wonderful women's herb for perimenopause and it has its origins in Indian medicine.
Reishi mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum, has anyone heard of Reishi babies?
Licorice, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is also considered a synegist in TCM, meaning it enhances the actions of the other herbs.
Jiaogulan, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, is a herb that has had extensive use in TCM as it's also indicated for mild bronchitis.
Which adaptogens can I grow in NZ?
Many are tropical plants so in most cases they would need to be indoor or greenhouse plants, like Shatavari, Gynostemma/Jiaogulan and Tulsi.
Some are frost tender like Withania/Ashwagandha and Gotu Kola. I grow these in pots so I can bring them inside over winter.
If you plan to take any of these herbs you need to check with your naturopath for contraindications.
Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera