BUILDING RESILIENCE Herbal Adaptogens for Changing Times Feeling tired, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. There has been much going on in the world, which can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness or fatigue. Or it may just be the stressors of everyday life that are impacting your wellbeing. Now is the perfect time to focus on building resilience for the coming winter months, and the rest of the year, as we continue to navigate changing times. Resilience is defined as being able to adapt well in the face of adversity, trauma, stress or illness. Often primarily thought of as mental or emotional, there are in fact ways we can support our physical resilience, which in turn can positively impact mental and emotional resilience and thus influence our overall wellbeing. Aside from the basics (eating well, exercising and getting good rest) specific medicinal plants, known as ‘adaptogens’, can be used by almost anyone to support their ability to cope with stress. An adaptogen is a term for a safe and non-toxic medicinal plant that promotes balance in the body, one that is able to positively reduce the stress response, normalise body functions and strengthen body systems compromised by stress. To put it simply, they help you to adapt. Once reserved for royalty, Vikings and Olympic athletes, these plants were first formally studied in World War II. Scientists had observed their traditional use by hunters needing to maintain resilience and stamina whilst reducing hunger and exhaustion. They trialled them in enhancing the performance and endurance of soldiers and pilots. Results showed promise, and their modern-day use began. The plants themselves often grow in unfavourable conditions: high altitudes, harsh winters, or dry summers—some even survived the ice age! It is believed their learned ability to adapt to these growing conditions is what makes them so beneficial as a natural medicine. They work by supporting stability in the hypothalamic, pituitary and adrenal glands, and modulate the release of stress hormones. This leads to their array of beneficial effects including enhanced energy and immune function. Below is a small selection of a few worth considering.
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Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) Whilst a few different herbs are referred to as ‘ginseng’, Korean or panax ginseng is the ‘true’ ginseng. Possibly the most stimulating of the adaptogens, it is particularly useful in cases of fatigue and convalescing, and is beneficial to certain chronic disease states. It has also been shown to support memory, cognition and low mood. Males with low stamina, menopausal women, and the elderly may particularly benefit from this ginseng. Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero) Similar to its not-quite-related ‘cousin’ Korean ginseng, Siberian ginseng also acts as a mild stimulant and supports the immune system, alongside being a general ‘tonic’. It is a good choice for those who may find Korean ginseng too stimulating, but need energy and immune function gently restored, such as children or anxiety-prone individuals.
