Adaptogens 101: What They Are, How They Work, Their Benefits, and Why You Need Them

Adaptogens are one of those buzzy words you hear about but may not fully understand exactly what they do. Chances are, you read about them in your favorite magazines and on blogs, hear about them nonstop, and see post after post about their benefits. You’d be hard-pressed to find beauty and wellness products that don’t tout the properties of these sometimes hard-to-pronounce ingredients and all they have to offer.

While there are dozens upon dozens of different adaptogens, and before I dive deep into the of-the-moment adaptogen, ashwagandha (it’s scientifically known as Withania Somnifera and sometimes goes by the name of Indian winter cherry or Indian ginseng), let’s get acquainted with what adaptogens are, how they work and why they should be part of your daily wellness routine.

ADAPTOGENS 101

Adaptogens are substances belonging to a special class of herbs comprised of a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and herbs that assist the body’s ability to respond to stress or a reaction by reducing cortisol levels, in turning help the body to modulate stress and create balance. Originally used as an ancient form of Indian healing and medicine, today, adaptogens are all about alleviating stress and instilling a state of calmness, a major necessity in our fast-paced, hectic world.

About half a dozen herb-based adaptogens—ashwagandha, mucuna, moringa, tulsi, shilajit, and Triphala to name a few—have roots in Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine that was practiced around 6000 B.C. Each adaptogen has its specific benefits, but they all generally support the body to adapt and balance what needs to be regulated. Because adaptogens have a positive effect on stress related to environmental changes, they are also often recommended as a natural option for conditions like insomnia and even mild cases of anxiety.

ASHWAGANDHA ESSENTIALS

Ashwagandha is one of the most popular and widely used adaptogens. It’s been around for about 5,000 years, and only recently has it begun to reap superstar status thanks to clinical studies that drill down on the ingredient. Plus, ashwagandha is one of the more buzzy adaptogens, which is why you’ll find it in over-the-counter supplements and even some skincare products.

Consumed as either an ingestible pill, a liquid, or as a finely milled powder, ashwagandha provides a multitude of benefits to the body, especially combating the effects of stress and fatigue and providing enhanced vitality.

HOW IT WORKS

Ashwagandha can help lower cortisol, mitigate damaging stress and normalize the function of the organs and body. In doing so, the herb helps strengthen the endocrine system, which controls hormone production. When an adaptogen, like ashwagandha, is introduced to the endocrine system, it impacts the functionality of the stress hormone cortisol. A study published in the Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association reported that chronically stressed adults who supplemented with ashwagandha had about a 30% reduction in cortisol levels, on average.

The ancient herb ashwagandha is also a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that is known to strengthen hair and control hair loss. That’s because can offset the effects of stress on the hair itself. Plus, the adaptogen’s anti-inflammatory effects are thought to help minimize inflammation on the scalp and in the hair follicles, which, in turn, minimize thinning and shedding. However, it is important to note that results from taking any adaptogen are not immediate–they can take a few weeks to a few months to be noticeable, which is why compliance is so important.

OTHER BENEFITS

The herb’s beauty benefits aren’t limited just to stress and hair growth. Ashwagandha is a great anti-aging ingredient to use topically on the skin as it protects and improves it by blocking free radicals. It assists in moisture retention and boosts DHEA, a precursor of testosterone and estrogen that keeps skin youthful by stimulating the production of collagen. No matter what you choose to use ashwagandha for, the super herb has a place in just about everyone’s beauty routine. From reducing stress to getting your hair back on track to restoring elasticity, this time-tested herb proves to be powerful and results-oriented time and time again.