Adaptogen Series One!
This is the first of a series of posts on the different adaptogens I use, their benefits and how I incorporate them into my daily routine.
So what are adaptogens? Adaptogens are a specific group of herbs and a few mushrooms that restore balance to the body and work to support the way the body responds to and resists stress.
They work individually to each body’s unique specifications and increase the body’s resistance to physical, chemical, emotional and environmental stressors.
I found my way to adaptogens when I was looking for more natural ways to manage my chronic migraines and it’s been an obsession ever since.
According to Adriana Ayales of Anima Mundi Herbals, adaptogens “catalyze changes in the body, particularly in the neuroendocrine and immune systems.” This body system controls chemical communication in the body through hormone release which works with your nervous system. The ultimate goal of the nervous system is to bring balance to all internal systems and keep the body protected (the hypothalamus, the pituitary and adrenal glands are part of this process).
Problem is, well… Life. We are constantly bombarded by external and internal stressors that overwork our systems and we never really get to “turn off” our fight-or-flight and so we’re always on edge. Overadaption to stress and mismanagement of the internal flow of these systems leads to all sorts of ailments: insomnia, acne, disrupted blood sugar levels, oversecretion of cortisol… the list goes on.
So while we can’t stop what’s happening in the world around us, and we don’t all have time to meditate for hours everyday, adaptogens are an easy and natural way to address this overstimulation and bring back balance. Oh, and did I mention they’re non-toxic and have no significant side effects or contraindications?
And are you ready for the best part? Most of them you can add to your coffee!
So the first two adaptogen supplements I want to share with you are a double set of collagen that I love (one from Anima Mundi and one from Moon Juice) and the other is Chaga (a treasure mushroom!)
Collagen
Let’s start with the collagens… Now, adding collagen to your morning coffee is no new thing, but these collagens contain adaptogens and that’s all the difference in the world, but only one small change you’d have to make!
As we all know collagen is the mineral in our bodies that helps create strong bonds in connective tissues (like joints, ligaments and skin) but it depletes as a result of age and stress – this causes visible signs of aging (wrinkles) and physical discomfort (achy joints).
These two collagens are plant-based in both cases, top of the line, and you get the added benefits of the adaptogens, so you’re boosting collagen and fighting one of the causes of it’s depletion in one step: win-win in my book!
Collagen Booster Super Fruit Bliss (Anima Mundi – Plant-based) This collagen powder is mixed with Fo-Ti, Gynostemma, Mangosteen and others as well as the heralded Shizandra berry – all adaptogens known for their beautifying properties that nourish the complexion from within, not only because they are balancing of oxidative stress but also because they are incredibly high in antioxidants. The anti-inflammatory properties help with puffiness and redness too.
Collagen (Moon Juice – Vegan, traceable and unadulterated, bioactive, non GMO) In Moon Juice’s collagen (made from only three ingredients!!) you’l find the adaptogenic Silver Ear Mushroom, “the small molecular structure of which supports the skin barrier, delivers deep hydration and is one of the only vegan sources of Vitamin D” (this is sustainably sourced from China).
Chaga
First off, Anima Mundi’s Chaga mushrooms are all organically grown and sustainably sourced in the USA (Washington State); this is important because Chaga is in danger of extinction and so finding s brand that supports ethically sourcing this adaptogen is SO important.
Chaga is amazing, it is clinically proven to reduce stress, suppress cancer progression, it reduces inflammation and assists with diabetic health. It helps with fatigue and increases mental clarity. POW!
I take one tablespoon of Chaga and one to two tablespoons of either collagen each morning in my coffee (I use a PowerLix Milk Frother to mix it all together) easy peasy and so yummy! It’s that simple to include adaptogens into your daily routine and feel experience the benefits.
Let me know what you think, if you’ve tried any of these or another brand and what your experience has been like!
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