Adaptogenic Herbs: What Are They? How Can You Use Them?

Adaptogens are unique substances. These herbs simultaneously bolster your immune system and give you energy while helping your body adapt to stress. Usually, herbs do either one or the other. Adaptogens simultaneously energize and relax you. Each adaptogenic herb has its own unique properties. Which one is right for you? In this article I will be going over three of my favorite adaptogenic herbs and their qualities.

Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera, Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng

This Ayurvedic herb has become incredibly popular in the US. It is used for emaciation and weakness as it builds muscles and strength. It is great for anxiety, some types of insomnia and quieting a racing mind. That is why it is used for hyperactivity disorders. It is a great immune booster as well as an anti-inflammatory herb. Ashwagandha is traditionally used in Ayurveda to increase male virility. Ashwagandha literally means, “Smells like a horse” and is a strong-smelling herb. I grow Ashwagandha in my garden as it is one of my favorites. (It did so well in the sandy soil that I have an abundance and am selling it. Email me if you would like some.)

Dosic Effect: Lowers Vata & Kapha, increases Pitta. It can be very heating, so it is not recommended for anyone with excess heat issues. It is difficult to digest so should only be used if you have a strong digestive system. If there is ama (toxins) with congestion it is also contra-indicated. It should not be used in pregnancy without medical supervision.

Tulsi
Ocimum sanctum, Sacred/Holy Basil

This Ayurvedic herb is considered a sacred plant in India. Ancient tradition describes the Divine Mother manifesting on earth as the Holy Basil plant to benefit all creatures. There are special prayers and sects devoted to the worship of Tulsi. It is my favorite tea and grows like a weed in my garden.  There are four types of Tulsi: Kapur, Vana, Krsna and Rama. Tulsi calms the nervous system and increases circulation. It has an affinity to the heart and lungs. Tulsi clears congestion and increases the flow of prana. It is used in treating upper respiratory, allergies, certain types of headaches and asthma.  Tulsi kindles agni (digestive fire) and helps clear the digestive system, moving energy (apana vayu) down and out.  The juice of Tulsi can be used on insect bites. I use the juice with some other herbs to treat trick bites. Tulsi is special as it works for all types of fevers. This immune booster has also been clinically proven to normalize blood sugar.

Dosic Effect: Lowers Vata & Kapha, increases Pitta.  

Astragalus
Astragalus membranaceus, Huang qi

This is a very important herb for Qi (Prana, life force energy) in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). It is used to boost the immune system and treat fatigue. Like Tulsi, it has an affinity to the heart and lungs. It is traditionally used in low blood pressure and kidney disorders. I like to put a few pieces into my immune boosting soup that I make if someone in my house is fighting a cold, etc. I also serve this soup for colds and flus.

Dosic Effect: Tridoshic, can increase Pitta in excess. Do not use with hypertension. It is important not to overuse this herb. Do not use during pregnancy.

Other examples of Adaptogenic herbs are Ginseng, Rhodliola, Schisandra, Cordycops and Reishi mushrooms.