Wednesday Wellness

Adaptogen Series Four

Vitality and Mental Clarity Smoothie

I have struggled with chronic migraine for over a decade and in addition to guidance from some wonderful doctors along the way, I have also sought out holistic ways to support mental clarity and wellness.

This smoothie incorporates a number of anti-inflammatory adaptogens. While migraine has never classically been considered an inflammatory disease, there is emerging research and theory that is moving in that direction.

In addition to Anima Mundi’s Guarana powder (which has been used by Brazilians for migraine as it naturally dilates blood vessels) I have found these supplements to be helpful in preventative care of my migraine condition.

What follows is a breakdown of the herbal supplments and then an ingredient list for the Vitality and Mental Clarity Smoothie (which for me, is the easiest and best way for me to pack all of these supplements into one one place!)

The Mind

• Holy Basil Leaf
• Mucuna
• Ginko Leaf

This Adaptogenic Brain Tonic is chock full of adaptogenic, aruvedic herbs that boost mood, are anti-inflammatory, improve circulation, help cognitive function, relieve anxiety and have strong antioxidants. I use 1 tsp of this a day.

Mucuna

• L-Dopa
• White Mucuna Seed Extract Powder

Mucuna is one of the only naturally occurring sources of L-Dopa, or Dopamine, the mood-booster. It is attributed to lowering stress, and the high concentrations of L-Dopa encourage the brain to produce dopamine. This helps with stress (one of the leading triggers in headache/migraine). I use 1 tsp of this daily.

Mushroom Mocha Milk

• Coconut Cream Powder
• Heirloom Cacao
• 7 mushrooms: Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, Lions Mane, Agaricus, Shiitake, Maitake

This Mushroom Mocha Milk is an amazing addition to anything (it’s really good in coffee too!) It’s a great way to get a super dose of these 7 adaptogenic mushrooms which carry anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-depressive benefits, are helpful with cognition and beneficial in the recovery of nervous system injury. 1 tablespoon of this in coffee, tea or a smoothie does the trick!

Liver Vitality

• Moringa
• Chlorella
• Spirulina
• Burdock Root
• Tumeric
• Dandelion Root
• Milk Thistle
• Graviola

I mix this Liver Vitality into my smoothie because, honestly, it’s the easiest way I’ve found to work it in! It’s a wonderful way to get these super algae benefits including reduction in blood pressure, a large dose of high density nutrients, they can be helpful against anemia, are anti-inflammatory, and can lower “bad” cholesterol. It’s a mad detoxifier for your system and easy to add in. 1 tsp is all you need to get all the benefits.

Vitality and Mental Clarity Smoothie

Ingredients

• Mucuna 1 tsp
• The Mind 1 tsp
• Liver Vitality 1 tsp
• Mushroom Mocha Milk 1 tbsp
• Almond Milk (or any milk of choice) 1/2 cup
• Yogurt of choice 1 1/2 cup
• Fresh fruit of choice, fresh or frozen (I did fresh berries) 1 Cup
• 1-2 cups of ice
• Agave or honey to sweeten if need be

As always, I’d love to hear if you know any other remedies for migraine or if you’re working with any other adaptogens and of course, if you try this smoothie, let me know how it is! Remember, to experience the benefits of any regime, you have to stick with it!

xo

Rebecca