Natural Adaptogens – Types, Properties

Adaptogens are plant or animal substances that help the body adapt to various stressful situations. They are natural chemical compounds that help increase the body’s resistance to stress and reduce its negative impact on health. Adaptogens have been used for centuries in natural medicine and are currently being scientifically studied to confirm their beneficial impact on human health.

Stress in Modern Times

Modern civilization has created an extremely stressful environment for humans and animals, with extremely high demands on our physical and mental abilities. The last hundred years have brought everyone new, unique challenges. It doesn’t take much reflection on the obvious and less obvious sources of stressors in today’s times to realize that the average person experiences extraordinary physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual stress throughout their life.
Unfortunately, the constant onslaught of these daily modern stress factors can have serious consequences for our health and well-being. Are you aware that 80% of all today’s diseases and ailments are related to stress? That 25% of all prescribed prescriptions result from problems stemming from the primary problem of stress. That one of the three best-selling drugs is a tranquilizer, and 2/3 of all visits to family doctors also result from stress.

What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are biologically active substances found in certain herbs and plants that help the body and mind of humans and animals adapt to changes and life stresses.
The world-renowned Russian scientist, Dr. Israel I. Brekhman, is hailed worldwide as the father of extensive research on adaptogens. He was a professor of medicine and a physiologist pharmacologist. The Soviet Union and the Russian national parliament awarded the good doctor the Order of Lenin, Lenin Medal for his courageous work, as well as the coveted Honorary Certificate, these awards were given to him for breaking the genetic codes of plants, discovering the molecular structures of their phytochemicals, and his lifetime work with adaptogens.
He also held 40 patents, published 22 monographs, several hundred scientific articles, and wrote many books. Dr. Brekhman was a pioneer of a massive “top-secret” scientific project funded by the Russian government, which engaged 1200 of their best scientists. Led by Dr. Brekhman, this scientific community applied scientific methodology to study plants. They investigated the biological codes of plants and analyzed their molecular structures. His research subjects became entire populations of cities, schools, hospitals, and factories. For instance, in one case study, they analyzed an entire city and all its inhabitants, including animals, for twelve long years. This led to one of the most massive, enduring, and effective human and animal testing programs in the documented history of science.
After 45 years of consistent research and thousands of clinical trials, the ultimate patented formula Prime One was created, consisting of seven adaptogenic herbal extracts.

Here are the components of Prime One:

1. ELEUTHEROCOCCUS SENTICOSUS (Acantho Root)
2. RHODIOLA ROSEA (Golden Root)
3. ARALIA MANDSHURICA (Manchurian Thorn Tree)
4. SCHIZANDRA CHINENSIS (Chinese Magnolia Vine)
5. RHAPONTICUM CARTHAMOIDES (Wild) (Maral Root)
6. GLYCYRRHIZA URALENSIS (Ural Licorice Root)
7. ROSA MAJALIS (Cinnamon Rose)

The primary herb is Eleutherococcus, also known as Siberian Ginseng. Subsequent clinical studies found that this phenomenal blend of herbs had surprising synergistic properties – thus the mix of these seven herbs together was much more effective than any of the single herbs taken separately.
Prime One contains rare trace minerals, coenzymes, metabolites, antioxidants, and vitamins. These nutrients relate to whole classes of body functions. They increase human resistance to various physical, emotional, metabolic, and environmental stresses and fill the nutritional void that no other dietary element satisfies.
In 196

2 Eleutherococcus, the Adaptogen prototype, was recognized by the USSR Minister of Health as an official herbal medicine and was included in their National Drug Guide, the pharmacopeia. Furthermore, “Brekhman’s Formula was used alongside anti-diabetic drugs to help balance blood sugar levels.” Morton Walker Medical Report Innovative Biologics, July 1994

Why Are Adaptogens Important for Our Health?

Well, stressors such as: toxins, pollutants, oxidants, and chemicals in processed food, radiation, depression, and fatigue — are now considered the cause of DNA mutations that lead to cancer. Adaptogens are the missing nutrients from nature that protect us from the chemical hormonal assault of such stressors. The incidence of cancer was 3.3 times lower in animals taking adaptogens than in the control group of animals not given adaptogens.

However, the most important question for each of us who care about health is whether we can find a way to reduce, reverse, and mitigate these harmful chemical effects of stress. This is where adaptogens come in.

The Soviet scientific community tested these specific plant extracts on large groups of people under physical and mental stress. Russian astronauts, top athletes, airplane pilots, military personnel, truck drivers, factory workers – all were given adaptogens. They discovered a radical improvement in performance, fewer mistakes, fewer illnesses, fewer accidents, and calmer functioning.
The Russians spent over $500 million of Soviet-sponsored government money to support these massive secret research projects. Prime One is one of the most researched, scientifically validated nutritional dietary supplements on today’s natural product market!
Initially, for political reasons, adaptogens were kept a closely guarded secret from the rest of the world for some time. Perhaps only in the Soviet Union could such an endeavor have been considered. Only in a totalitarian state could such massive tests be conducted. It certainly would never find the appropriate funding nor the number of test subjects in Canada or the United States as it did in Russia on such a massive scale.

Other countries, such as Germany, Japan, and Sweden, have independently conducted their own research and tests confirming Brekhman’s studies and findings. The Institute of Medical Molecular Biology in Heidelberg, Germany, published an important double-blind study testing one of Brekhman’s adaptogens, Eleutherococcus senticosus, in the 1990s. This study, using flow cytometry, showed a strong boost to the immune system. In individuals who received the plant extract during clinical trials, their immune system markers revealed an increase in all T lymphocyte subsets, including cancer-killing cytotoxic T cells, which showed an increase of 40 to 80%. Excerpt from a German study conducted in 1990 on Eleutherococcus Senticosus as an immunomodulating agent
In 1984, a very important scientific article by the renowned Soviet molecular biologist, Dr. Igor Totoroff, showed that these plant extracts (found in the Brekhman formula) have broad effects on various organ systems and can inhibit excessive cortisol production during stress, thereby controlling the widespread damage known to occur from excessive cortisol production. These adaptogen extracts also showed increased energy production in human cells. In fact, leading research centers around the world are currently conducting ongoing research and clinical trials, revealing new and incredible benefits to the human body from using adaptogens.

It is impossible not to notice that in various medical journals and health publications, scientists and leading health specialists report that the human body is as young and as healthy as its immune system allows.
Dr. Brekhman’s research was a key success factor in the Soviet space program. His formulas restored natural balance to the bodies of cosmonauts and protected them from the stress associated with space travel, such as motion, dizziness, weightlessness, and inactivity.

These adaptogens were exclusively used by top Russian sports figures, who dominated the sports sector worldwide for decades. Brechman’s achievement in achieving world-class sports successes for Russian athletes, as well as other athletes from Eastern Bloc countries, was no less significant. Soviet Olympians and elite athletes routinely incorporated Brekhman’s adaptogenic formulas into their training programs for decades to ensure them a well-documented optimal edge in competition.
Dr. Brekhman’s formula was administered to victims of the Chernobyl disaster with success and great benefit

, so significant that Dr. Vladimir G. Sprigin, senior scientific worker of the Russian Academy of Sciences, wrote a letter to AMS Health Sciences, right after the terrible tragedy of September 11, 2001, stating “In connection with ongoing events, I would like to say that you have in your hands a miraculous remedy for people who have gone through such physical and emotional stress.” I remember how effective Eleutherococcus (the main adaptogen) was for that purpose after the Chernobyl disaster, and you have a preparation that is at least 6 times stronger.

Properties of Natural Adaptogens

Adaptogens have many properties that positively affect human health. Here are some of them:

1. Increasing physical performance – some adaptogens, such as rhodiola rosea and eleutherococcus, help increase physical performance and reduce fatigue.
2. Improving cognitive functions – adaptogens, such as ginseng and rhodiola rosea, can help improve memory, concentration, and cognitive function.
3. Reducing cortisol levels – adaptogens help reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone. High cortisol levels can lead to various diseases and health problems, such as digestive system issues, heart diseases, and diabetes.
4. Increasing the body’s resistance – adaptogens help increase the body’s resistance to various stressful situations, such as diseases, infections, and emotional problems.
5. Improving mood – some adaptogens, such as maca, can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Types of Adaptogens

There are many types of adaptogens, each with different properties and health benefits. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, also known as winter cherry and Indian ginseng, is one of the most valuable herbs in the Ayurvedic medical system, with a history of over 3000 years. Its Sanskrit name Ashwagandha literally means “that which has the smell of a horse,” named so because it is said to give the strength and vitality of a horse. Ashwagandha is specific to a wide range of conditions including arthritis, anxiety, insomnia, breathing disorders, nervous disorders, gynecological disorders, male infertility and impotence.
It is a stress resistance enhancer that increases endurance and promotes overall well-being. Many Western herbalists refer to this herb as “Ayurvedic ginseng” because of its reputation for increasing energy, strength, and stamina, and for its ability to relieve stress. Modern research has found it to contain several types of alkaloids, of which somniferine and withaniol are responsible for its multiple actions. It was reported that the plant’s roots contain alkaloids, withanolides, and many glycosides.

According to Ayurveda Ashwagandha is the best herb for balancing Vata in the body. Vata governs all movement in the body, including the movement of nerve impulses throughout the nervous system. When the root is taken as a milk decoction and sweetened with honey or raw sugar, it is used to inhibit aging and build strength by catalyzing the anabolic processes in the body.

Ashwagandha is also a proven immunomodulator, antioxidant, and hormone precursor, which regulates important physiological functions. Studies have shown it may protect the activity of immune cells that are exposed to chemicals that would otherwise inhibit their normal function.

Ashwagandha for Sexual Debility:

Ashwagandha has an affinity for the reproductive system in both men and women. It is the main male rejuvenative used in

Ayurveda, improving the quality of reproductive tissues and increasing sexual potency. It has also been used to increase libido and potency, for it is said to bestow upon its user the vitality and strength of a horse. It is often added to herbal formulas designed to improve desire and sexual function. Ashwagandha also helps women to increase their desire for sex. Long considered India’s most potent sex-enhancing plant, women in that country have used Ashwagandha for years to rev up their sex drives

Ashwagandha for Stress:

Ashwagandha is considered one of the best remedies for stress. While most adaptogens primarily work by helping the body to mobilize and maintain the physiological response to stress, Ashwagandha appears to work first and foremost by reducing the stress-related excesses of the alarmed nervous system. It improves the body’s ability to maintain physical effort and helps the body adapt to various types of stress. It was also reported to improve mental function and memory. It acts calmly on the mind and promotes healthy, sound, sleep.

Ashwagandha as an Anti-inflammatory:

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that contains several active phytochemicals known as glycowithanolides, which, as studies have shown, can relax smooth muscles. As a natural anti-inflammatory, ashwagandha may help to reduce discomfort associated with arthritis. Forty-two patients with osteoarthritis were randomly divided into two groups – one received ashwagandha, the other a placebo. After three months, pain and disability were markedly reduced in the ashwagandha group.

Ashwagandha for Poor Memory:

Ashwagandha is a medhya rasayana, helping to improve mental ability and performance. It helps support memory and problem-solving skills and improves coordinated functioning of all aspects of the brain. It corrects loss of memory arising out of long term stress, illness and overwork. A study conducted in 2001 on rodents showed that ashwagandha has the ability to boost memory.

Ashwagandha is also used for high blood pressure, as an immune modulator and antioxidant.

Overall, Ashwagandha is a promising herb in many different areas.

Rhodiola Rosea – Golden Root

Rhodiola Rosea, also known as golden root, is a native plant of Arctic Siberia. For centuries it has been used by eastern European and Asian cultures to enhance physical endurance, work performance, longevity, resistance to high altitude sickness, and to treat fatigue, depression, anemia, impotence, gastrointestinal ailments, infections, and nervous system disorders.

The first recorded medicinal applications of rodia riza (renamed Rhodiola Rosea) were made by the Greek physician, Dioscorides, in 77 C.E. in ‘De Materia Medica’. Rhodiola Rosea has been part of official Russian medicine since 1969.

Despite its long history of use, Rhodiola Rosea has only recently come to the attention of the Western world for its health benefits, catching the attention of many natural health practitioners due to research testing its effect on battling anxiety and stress.

Rhodiola Rosea is considered an adaptogen. This means it generally has a stabilizing effect on the body without disrupting other functions. Its capacity to normalize hormones might be effective in treating depression and anxiety.

Studies on Rhodiola Rosea show that it stimulates neurotransmitters and enhances their effects on the brain. This includes the brain’s ability to process serotonin, which helps the body adapt to stress.

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Rhodiola Rosea when stress is caused by intense mental work (such as final exams). Such

tests have shown that Rhodiola Rosea improved the quantity and quality of work, increasing mental clarity and reducing the effects of fatigue.

The effect of Rhodiola Rosea has also been tested on stress and anxiety from both physical and emotional sources. The American Botanical Council report states, “Most users find that it improves their mood, energy level, and mental clarity.” They also report a study which showed that Rhodiola Rosea can increase stress tolerance, while protecting the brain and heart from the physical effects of stress.

This report included details from studies highlighting the overall health benefits of Rhodiola Rosea.

The generally recommended dose is 200-600mg/day. The active properties should amount to at least 0.8 percent salidroside and 3 percent rosavin.

It’s important for consumers to know that Rhodiola may be sold using other species that do not share the same properties as Rhodiola Rosea, or at strengths ineffective for treatment. Anyone with depression or anxiety should also consult with a healthcare worker when treating these symptoms.

Ginseng

Ginseng is the most well-known Chinese herb. It is the most famous plant used in traditional medicine. Various forms of ginseng have been used in medicine for more than 7000 years. Several species grow around the world, and though some are preferred for specific benefits, all are considered to have similar properties as an effective general rejuvenator.

Ginseng is a slow-growing perennial plant (reaching about a half meter in height) native to the mountainous regions of northeastern China, Korea, and far eastern regions of Russia. The older the root, the greater the concentration of ginsenosides, the active chemical compounds, and therefore the stronger the ginseng becomes. Ginseng roots can live longer than a hundred years. Ginseng was widely cultivated in China, Korea, Japan, and Russia. Ginseng begins to flower in its fourth year; the roots need 4-6 years to reach maturity. Ginseng is a protected herb in China and Russia: the export of ginseng seeds from China is banned, and the collection of wild ginseng is illegal in Russia. Natural white ginseng is often processed by steam heat to produce “red ginseng” of a different, higher medicinal potency.

It is used to reduce the effects of stress, improve performance, boost energy levels, enhance memory, and stimulate the immune system. Oriental medicine has recognized ginseng as a necessary element of all its best prescriptions, and regards it as a prevention and a cure. It is said to remove both mental and bodily fatigue, treat pulmonary complaints, dissolve tumors and reduce the effects of age.

Ginseng is native to China, Russia, North Korea, Japan, and some areas of North America. It was first cultivated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is difficult to grow and needs 4-6 years to become mature enough to harvest. The roots are called Jin-chen, meaning “like a man,” in reference to their resemblance to the shape of the human body.

Native Americans considered it one of their most sacred herbs and added it to many herbal preparations to enhance the strength of the brew. The roots can live more than 100 years.

Ginseng contains vitamins A, B-6 and the mineral Zinc, which aids in the production of thymic hormones, necessary for the functioning of the defense system. The main active ingredients of ginseng are more than 25 glycoside triterpenoid saponins called “ginsenosides”. These steroid-like ingredients provide the adaptogenic properties that enable ginseng to balance and counter the effects of stress. The glycosides appear to act on the adrenals, helping to prevent adrenal hypertrophy and excess corticosteroid production in response to physical, chemical, or biological stress.

Studies conducted in China have shown that ginsenosides also increase protein synthesis and activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. Ginseng is used to restore memory, and enhance concentration and cognitive abilities which may be impaired by improper blood supply to the brain.

Ginseng helps maintain excellent body functions. Siberian ginseng has been shown to increase energy, stamina, and help the body resist viral infections and

environmental toxins. Research has shown specific effects that support the central nervous system, liver function, lung function, and circulatory system.

Animal studies have shown that ginseng extracts can stimulate the production of interferons, increase natural killer cells (NK) activity, lower cholesterol and triglycerides. Men have used the herb to improve sexual function and treat erectile dysfunction. It is believed that ginseng increases the level of estrogen in women and is used in the treatment of menopause symptoms.

It is also used in diabetes, protection against radiation, and chemotherapy, colds, chest problems, aids in sleep, and stimulates the appetite.

Korean Red Ginseng is also known as Asian ginseng, Asian ginger, and Chinese ginseng. Korean red ginseng is a perennial leafy plant whose fleshy root requires 4-6 years of cultivation to maturity. Korean red ginseng is now used as a natural preventive, restorative remedy and is valued for its adaptogenic properties. Korean red ginseng is considered most suitable for men and older individuals. Used for centuries in China, Korean red ginseng was thought to be an anti-aging herb. By balancing systemic levels in the body, Korean red ginseng has been used to lower cholesterol, balance metabolism, increase energy levels, and stimulate the immune system.

Korean White Ginseng is an adaptogen with yang properties and an arousing and stimulating metabolic effect on the central nervous system, brain, head, and blood vessels. It may beneficially affect blood sugar levels, histamine levels, inflammation, stress levels, mental and physical abilities, impotence, anemia, arteriosclerosis, depression, diabetes, ulcers, edema, immune and lung functions, appetite, libido and may provide radiation protection and aid cocaine withdrawal.

North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) is thought to have a cooling effect on the body. This cooling, energizing, and stamina-enhancing factor is considered most beneficial to our fast-paced, stressful world.

Siberian ginseng is a distinct plant with different active chemical components. Valued for its ability to restore vigor, increase longevity, enhance overall health, and stimulate both a healthy appetite and a good memory, it is widely used in Russia to help the body adapt to stressful conditions and to enhance productivity.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii)

Maca root grows in the mountains of Peru at high altitudes of 2000 to 3500 meters above sea level, making it the highest altitude growing plant in the world. Maca is a root vegetable similar to a radish that belongs to the potato family and has a bulbous and spherical shape. The root itself is about three to six centimeters across and 4.7 centimeters in length. There are four recognized types of Maca root depending on the color of the root. The color of the roots ranges from cream-yellow or light-pink to dark-purple or black.

Chemically Maca root contains significant amounts of amino acids, carbohydrates, and minerals including calcium, phosphorous, zinc, magnesium, iron, as well as vitamins B1, B2, B12, C, and E. Peruvian Maca also contains a number of glycosides.

As a dietary supplement Peruvian Maca has generalized tonic effects on the biochemical functioning of the human organism. Chief among these effects is the enhancement of endocrine function. The endocrine system includes all of the glands and the hormones they secrete that exist in the body and that control such conditions as fertility, sexual function, digestion, brain and nervous system physiology, and energy levels. Hormonal regulation is responsible for all of the physiological attributes that enable us to enjoy the myriad sensations of being vibrantly alive, including those related to sexual arousal, physical activity, and mental-emotional states of being. Maca root has also been called an adaptogen, which means that it increases the body’s ability to defend against both physical and mental weakening, thereby potential illness. It is believed to achieve this by supporting adrenal and pituitary gland health, amongst others, upon which the proper functioning of the hormone system is dependent

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Traditionally Maca has been used for a variety purposes, which can differ for men and women. For example, women have found that it helps relieve the symptoms of PMS and menopause. Women typically notice a dramatic decline in hot flashes and night sweats. Men have used it to enhance fertility and sexual function. Users of Maca root tend to derive a variety of benefits in accordance with their individual needs. However, both men and women have found that it significantly boosts libido and sex drive, increases energy, stamina, and the feeling of general well-being. Recently, Maca has been used as an excellent alternative to anabolic steroids among athletes seeking muscle hypertrophy. Unlike many other energy- and muscle-boosting substances, such as anabolic steroids, Maca contains no chemicals that interfere with or over-activate normal endocrine function.

What is gelatinized Maca?

Choose gelatinized Maca for greater potency and optimal absorption. Gelatinization is an extrusion process that removes starch from the root, leaving a more concentrated powder that is easier to digest. Gelatinized Maca was the form used in the first human clinical study on Maca that yielded great results. Additionally, if you are buying in powdered form, gelatinized Maca tastes much better and is easier to incorporate in food and beverages.

What benefits can Maca offer?

Men:
-Increases energy (chronic fatigue)
-Treat sexual dysfunctions (loss of libido)
-Increases stamina & athletic performance
-Nourishes glandular system
-Improves fertility
-Improves physical and emotional well being
-Promotes mental clarity
-Balances hormones

Women:
-Treat PMS (mood swings)
-Alleviate menopausal symptoms (hot flashes)
-Stimulate sexual activity
-Nourishes glandular system
-Alternative to HRT (hormone replacement therapy)
-Increases stamina & athletic performance
-Increases energy (chronic fatigue)
-Balances hormones

Menopause is a natural event in every woman’s life – it is the cessation of menstruation that typically is accompanied by symptoms. This transition is unique for every woman, but there are ways to prevent and reduce symptoms typical to menopause.

Benefits of Using Maca During Menopause:

-Increases libido
-Deeper sleep
-Balances moods
-Improves memory & brain function
-Increases energy levels
-Helps adapt to stress
-Slows the aging process
-Reduces pain, increases endurance & stamina
-Prevents osteoporosis, high calcium and vegetable protein
-Reverses vaginal dryness

Eleutherococcus

Also known as Siberian Ginseng, it is a plant adaptogen used in natural medicine. It is endemic to Asia, especially in Russia and China. Eleutherococcus is used to enhance physical performance, reduce stress, and improve cognitive abilities.

Eleutherococcus acts on the body by regulating the hormonal and nervous system. It affects the hormonal system by increasing cortisol levels, which is a natural hormone that counteracts stress. Eleutherococcus also acts on the nervous system by regulating the levels of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood and brain function.

Studies have shown that Eleutherococcus can help improve physical performance, reduce fatigue, and improve cognitive abilities. Additionally, Eleutherococcus exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulating actions, which can help protect against heart diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancers.

Eleutherococcus is available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, powder, or liquid extracts. Supplements with Eleutherococcus are usually well tolerated by the body, but they can cause side effects, such as diarrhea, headaches, or heart problems, especially when used in large doses.

Advantages of Natural Adaptogens

Adaptogens have many advantages for human health, including:

1. Naturalness – adaptogens are natural substances that do not cause side effects that can occur with pharmaceutical drugs.
2. Gentleness– adaptogens act gently on the body, meaning they do not cause sudden changes in hormone levels or other physiological processes.
3. Versatility – adaptogens have many different properties and health benefits, meaning they can help with various health issues.
4. Scientific research – many adaptogens have been subjected to scientific research, allowing for the confirmation of their beneficial impact on human health.

Disadvantages of Natural Adaptogens

Although adaptogens have many advantages, it’s important to remember that they are active substances that can affect the body. Here are some disadvantages of adaptogens:

1. Possible interactions with other drugs – adaptogens can affect how other drugs work, so it’s necessary to consult a doctor before starting to use adaptogens.
2. Possible side effects – although adaptogens are gentle, some people may experience side effects such as headaches, nausea, or stomach issues.
3. Effect may vary among individuals – every body is different and may react differently to adaptogens, so it’s important to observe your body and reactions to the use of adaptogens.

Summary

Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to various stressful situations. There are many types of adaptogens, each with different properties and health benefits. Adaptogens have many advantages, such as naturalness, gentleness, versatility, but it’s important to remember that they can also have some disadvantages, such as possible interactions with other drugs, side effects, and differences in reactions among individuals.

If you want to try adaptogens, it’s best to consult a specialist who can help you choose the right types of adaptogens and determine the appropriate doses. You can also consider using dietary supplements containing adaptogens, but always make sure that the supplements come from reputable manufacturers and do not contain dangerous additives.

It’s also important to remember that adaptogens are not a cure for diseases, but rather substances that help the body cope with stress and improve overall well-being. They should be used as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a proper diet, regular physical activity, and stress management.

Adaptogens are natural substances that can help cope with stress and improve overall well-being. There are many types of adaptogens, each with its unique properties and health benefits. While adaptogens have many advantages, it’s important to remember they are active substances and should be used cautiously.