What Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens have been around for as long as there have been plants. At least as far as we know. The term adaptogen has only been around for about 60 years. The Russians began their study back in the 20's and 30's after an unknown blast took place in the Siberian area known as Tunguska. Over 800 square miles of trees and vegetation were leveled. What grew back there was remarkable. Over of 750,000 plant species around 30 are considered adaptogens.
I came across spray adaptogens after searching for a supplement that my mom could swallow. She was having extreme difficulty taking any kind of nutritional supplement. Vitamin sprays have been around since the mid-80's, but there is currently only one source of adaptogenic sprays.
Many people are familiar with some of the more well known adaptogens, such as ginseng, licorice, and astragalus. The Russians developed a formula using 7 of the stronger herbs and this was used by the Olympic athletes in the 70's and 80's when they began their domination of the Olympic games.
After the cold war, adaptogens became known to the rest of the world, but still are not so widely known by that name. It is my hope to bring this knowledge to the online community.
The primary function of adaptogens is their ability to help us cope with stress. Or better yet, adapt to stress. The plants or herbs themselves are non-toxic and in most cases it appears that they won't harm anyone if taken. Obviously many people have food allergies, so it is always possible that someone could react in a negative way.
Stress is a killer. It has been linked to many of todays illnesses and health problems. Obesity, diabetes, depression, heart disease, cancer, erectile dysfunction, and other health issues can all be linked in some way to everyday stress. We can all use a coping mechanism and adaptogenic herbs can play a role in helping us cope.
My motto is, "as I learn I'll share".
Until next time....take care.
