To create a satisfying life, we must build a solid foundation of health. What kind of foundation? We must invest in a foundation of health. I’m referring to our whole health, or wholeness, as the origin of the word denotes. The online etymology dictionary defines health as "wholeness, a being whole, sound or well." (http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=health )
Whole health encompasses much more than allopathic medicine’s concept of health. Wholeness is beyond even the treatment goals of acupuncturists and naturopaths. True whole health requires the highest level of personal responsibility. It incorporates all the dimensions of our being: physical, emotional, mental, energetic and spiritual. Whole health is the result of embodying whole consciousness. And that is a whole lot.
Many systems outline a path toward wholeness. Likely, you have a routine that works for you. It may include exercise, meditation and a nutrition regimen, and when followed diligently, it works. But there are times we don’t work at it as well as we should. And frankly, there are times when maintaining healthful habits simply seems impractical.
Why? What happens then? Why are those times tougher than others?
Something gets in our way, right?
Simply put, that thing is stress. Just say the word, stress. It sounds like a mischievous goblin looking to sabotage everything that hard work builds. Think about it. When someone describes an obstacle, typically stress is the culprit. Call it an invisible sidekick to adversity. Fortunately, stress isn’t a masked bandit running amok; we can manage its impact on our lives.
For many of us, the word stress is somewhat ambiguous. Wikipedia states that “stress is how the body reacts to a stressor, real or imagined, a stimulus that causes stress.” According to another definition, stress relates to the pressure, pull or other force exerted on one thing by another. The source of the tension is a stressor, and the quantity, quality and duration of the tension helps to categorize it as a specific type of stressor. To better understand stress, we need to take a closer look at some of the main stressors:
Whole health encompasses much more than allopathic medicine’s concept of health. Wholeness is beyond even the treatment goals of acupuncturists and naturopaths. True whole health requires the highest level of personal responsibility. It incorporates all the dimensions of our being: physical, emotional, mental, energetic and spiritual. Whole health is the result of embodying whole consciousness. And that is a whole lot.
Many systems outline a path toward wholeness. Likely, you have a routine that works for you. It may include exercise, meditation and a nutrition regimen, and when followed diligently, it works. But there are times we don’t work at it as well as we should. And frankly, there are times when maintaining healthful habits simply seems impractical.
Why? What happens then? Why are those times tougher than others?
Something gets in our way, right?
Simply put, that thing is stress. Just say the word, stress. It sounds like a mischievous goblin looking to sabotage everything that hard work builds. Think about it. When someone describes an obstacle, typically stress is the culprit. Call it an invisible sidekick to adversity. Fortunately, stress isn’t a masked bandit running amok; we can manage its impact on our lives.
For many of us, the word stress is somewhat ambiguous. Wikipedia states that “stress is how the body reacts to a stressor, real or imagined, a stimulus that causes stress.” According to another definition, stress relates to the pressure, pull or other force exerted on one thing by another. The source of the tension is a stressor, and the quantity, quality and duration of the tension helps to categorize it as a specific type of stressor. To better understand stress, we need to take a closer look at some of the main stressors:
- Mental stressors—all mental illness, chronic unresolved issues, major life changes, excessive responsibility, self-image issues, and obsessive thinking
- Emotional stressors—anger, rage, irritability, worry, anxiety, fear, fright, terror, depression, desire, lust, sadness, grief, and overexcitement
- Physical stressors—too much strenuous activity such as overwork and too much exercise, trauma, starvation, medical issues, suffocation, alcohol and drug use, lack of sleep, illness, and childbirth
- Environmental stressors—sudden changes in climate or exposure to severe climate conditions, electromagnetic waves (wi-fi networks), excessive exposure to sun, exposure to microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, molds, and parasites), exposure to chemical toxins (pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, heavy metals, household and industrial chemicals); also, nutritional deficiencies such as refined foods, nutrient-depleted foods, genetically modified foods, irradiated foods, trans fats, caffeine and other stimulants
- Spiritual stressors—loss of direction and life purpose
As we can see, there are many stressors. Certainly, it is important to minimize our exposure to unnecessary stressors; however, because stress and stressors are a part of life, our focus should be on how we process stress. Our bodies metabolize it in two different ways: either as helpful eustress, which is anabolic in nature (meaning it builds us up), or as destructive distress, which is catabolic (meaning it breaks us down). The old saying is true: “What doesn’t kill me makes me stronger.”
Hans Selye outlined our stress response in more detail and earned the nickname “the father of stress research.” In what he called the General Adaptation Syndrome, Selye delineated a sequence of reactions the body goes through when responding to a given stressor. First, in the alarm stage, we experience an internal alert where the body prepares for action with adrenaline and cortisol. This is commonly known as the fight-or-flight response. If the stressor persists, the body goes into the resistance stage. Here the body reallocates its primary force to deal with the stressor. This is the “cope and adapt…or else” stage. If the tension persists, then the body will fall into the exhaustion stage. This is the danger zone. In the exhaustion stage, we are vulnerable to illness and weakness. Selye’s research proves that the key factor in our body’s survival is its ability to adapt, and our ability to adapt depends on our adaptive energy. Selye coined that phrase, because in situations when our adaptive energy is high, we move through stress unscathed. But when our adaptive energy is low, all things can go wrong and likely do. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stress_%28biology%29)
Hans Selye outlined our stress response in more detail and earned the nickname “the father of stress research.” In what he called the General Adaptation Syndrome, Selye delineated a sequence of reactions the body goes through when responding to a given stressor. First, in the alarm stage, we experience an internal alert where the body prepares for action with adrenaline and cortisol. This is commonly known as the fight-or-flight response. If the stressor persists, the body goes into the resistance stage. Here the body reallocates its primary force to deal with the stressor. This is the “cope and adapt…or else” stage. If the tension persists, then the body will fall into the exhaustion stage. This is the danger zone. In the exhaustion stage, we are vulnerable to illness and weakness. Selye’s research proves that the key factor in our body’s survival is its ability to adapt, and our ability to adapt depends on our adaptive energy. Selye coined that phrase, because in situations when our adaptive energy is high, we move through stress unscathed. But when our adaptive energy is low, all things can go wrong and likely do. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stress_%28biology%29)
(Kudos to Hans!)
The importance of adaptive energy has been a part of ancient wisdom for centuries. Adaptive energy is the same force that mystics and sages have always realized as the foundation for spiritual growth, as well as for physical health and well-being. They called it prana, ki or qi (chi). Because of its vital significance, sages of antiquity sought ways to enhance chi. Guess where they found help? Yup, good ole Mother Nature had the solution—a group of rare botanicals that enhances adaptive energy more than anything else. These plants cultivated strong adaptive power because they grow and thrive in harsh conditions. When they are consumed, the body absorbs their extra adaptive power. In Chinese Medicine, these plants are called tonic herbs, for their tonifying effects. And this group of herbs is also found within Ayurveda’s Rasyayan Formulas for spiritual alchemy. As fate would have it, these botanicals were rediscovered in the West in the 1940s when Russian scientists unlocked their secret and named them adaptogens. The Russians used them to help alleviate the distress their Olympic athletes experienced from over-training. And they were used as healing aids after the 1986 nuclear spill in Chernobyl. Modern Russian research proves that adaptogens have the unique ability to bring the body into balance and lessen the effects of stress on a person, be it physical, emotional, mental or environmental stress.
"Adaptogens help the body regulate itself," says Harriet Beinfield, a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist who co-authored, Between Heaven and Earth: A Guide to Chinese Medicine, (Ballantine, 1991) with husband Efrem Korngold, a doctor of Oriental Medicine and co-director of a Chinese medical clinic in San Francisco. "One example of the amazing healing properties of adaptogens," she points out, "is that a person with low blood sugar will find an adaptogen raises their blood sugar to a normal, balanced level, while the same adaptogen taken by someone with high blood sugar will experience their blood sugar lowered toward normal levels."
In other words, adaptogens can help the body restore and maintain balance. These herbs are amazing. Just take a look at some of them and their benefits!
American Ginseng
By far the most popular adaptogen, Ginseng (pronounced gin-sing) is considered the most lucrative legal crop in the world. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years to prevent and treat an extraordinary number of problems, from premature aging to low libido, low energy and cancer. Scientific research supports its anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. American Ginseng is the best variety of the Ginsengs because of its neutral healing properties.
Holy Basil
One of the most powerful adaptogens is Holy Basil. Its origin is India, and it has been known for its incredible medicinal value for thousands of years. It’s the chief herb of Ayurvedic Medicine and is heralded for its ability to reduce stress and restore homeostasis. It’s the all-in-one herb in Ayurveda, used not only to treat all kinds of ailments but also to lift one’s consciousness in spiritual pursuits.
Lycium Fruit
Lychium or lychii fruit is also known as Goji berry or Wolfberry. It is a superior tonic herb, longevity herb and another great adaptogen. It is a powerful immune stimulator and immune modulator. Lychium has been used for thousands of years to strengthen sexual vigor and enhance fertility, and it is wonderful for the skin. It promotes endurance and is a favorite among martial artists and athletes. It is said that Lycium will brighten the eyes, promote happiness, and strengthen vitality! In essence, it restores and builds the hormones that keep us vital and youthful!
Polygonum Multiflorum
Also called Fo-Ti or He Shou Wu, this herb has incredible adaptive and restorative effects. It is often used to bring about mental clarity and to invigorate the brain. However, its real claim to fame is its ability to restore youth to a tired, old body! In China, it is said to help return an aged person to youthfulness, because it is a blood tonic. It is believed to increase sperm quality and quantity in men and sexual vitality in women. Therefore, it is a powerful sexual tonic. For this reason, regular use of this herb has been shown to return the hair, nails and skin to their youthful state. Polygonum multiflorum has been shown to be a mild cleanser of the blood, too. It is a fundamental herb for spiritualists who desire to strengthen the inner fires of the procreative force.
Astragalus Root
Astragalus has been considered one of the most potent immune tonics by ancient physicians and modern researchers alike. For over 2,000 years it has been used for lifting the mood, strengthening muscles, increasing metabolism, reducing stress, and strengthening the body as a whole. In Classical Chinese Medicine, it is said to strengthen the Protective Qi, which circulates under the skin and in the myofascial tissue (the tendon-like shealth that supports the body’s structure and encompasses every muscle) and thus creates an “armor” against external pathogens. This makes it a great adaptogen. Astragalus increases the body’s adaptive energy. It also increases the upward flow of life-force that straightens posture, realigns organ position, and strengthens the connective tissue. Astragalus induces a mild diuretic action, which helps the skin to release toxins.
Atractylodes
Atractylodes is a powerful energy tonic and adaptogen. It is also well known for balancing the digestive system. It is widely used by athletes, martial artists and those interested in weight loss because of its mild diuretic action, its ability to increase metabolism and vitality, and its removal of toxins. Also, spiritualists use Atractylodes to increase powers of concentration.
Licorice
Licorice root is one of the most commonly used adaptogens, used for thousands of years to rid the body of unwanted toxins. It is known to rid the body of over 1200 toxins! Licorice increases energy and digestive power. Also, it strengthens muscles, balances blood sugar, and strengthens the adrenal glands. One of its most common uses in Chinese Medicine is as a harmonizer of herbal formulations; it enhances the synergistic relationship of the herbs in multi-herb formulas. It has been shown to be a natural mood modifier and muscle relaxant, too, thus helping the body deal with stress. In the list of adaptogens that relieve stress, Licorice must be at the top. It is important to note, however, that according to allopathic physicians, it is unwise for patients on blood-pressure medications and individuals at risk of high blood pressure to take Licorice.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola grows in one of the harshest environments on the planet, Tibet. Because of this, Rhodiola evolved to develop powerful phyto-nutrients that enable it to survive and thrive! The story goes that those who regularly took Rhodiola lived to see 100 years. It is known as a chief longevity herb and a powerful immune stimulator. Science has now proven this herb to have powerful longevity attributes, and it helps control stressful situations that lead to chronic diseases. Rhodiola also has been observed by researchers to have a potent detoxifying effect on the body. Tibetan monks have used this herb for centuries to strengthen their powers of concentration, physical endurance and spiritual development. It’s been shown to improve oxygen absorption, memory and mental clarity. It’s used as a mood lifter and is even believed to be more powerful than St. John’s Wort.
Ashwagandha Root
Ancient physicians have used Ashwagandha for everything from hiccups to cancer. No doubt it has impressive adaptogenic properties. This powerful herb is one of the best adaptogenic herbs for restoring homeostasis and relieving stress! And it has been shown to be a powerful immune tonic as well.
Dang Shen
Dang Shen is another powerful adaptogen. It has been used as an energy tonic, blood enhancer, immune stimulator and immune modulator, and a digestive tonic. It has been shown to restore homeostasis and relieve stress.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi is one of the most powerful, potent adaptogenic herbs known to man. It is an immune booster, energy tonic, stress reliever, mood regulator and mild detoxifier. Widely used among meditation practitioners for calming the mind and inducing expanded states of consciousness, it is the most revered herb in Asia for longevity, spiritual growth, mental concentration, and vitality. To many in the East it is known as the “elixir of immortality.”
Shiitake mushroom
Shiitake mushroom, one of the most highly prized botanicals of Chinese and Japanese herbalism, is used to improve energy and blood circulation, and to strengthen the body as a whole. It is a great energy tonic as well as having a mild detoxifying effect on the cells and tissues of the body. Another powerful adaptogenic mushroom, it is a superior immunostimulator and immunomodulator (agents that stimulate the immune systems’ response and help regulate the immune responses). It balances the entire body’s systems and lowers stress and anxiety. Shiitake’s calming effects allow one to reach higher levels of awareness.
Maitake Mushroom
Maitake mushroom, like all adaptogens, has a “dual-directive” activity on the body’s systems. Dual-directive means that whether the body’s systems are deficient or excessive, Maitake helps to bring them back into balance. Maitake’s greatest benefit is to the immune system. Similar to Reishi mushroom, it has a mild calming effect as well as being a detoxifier. Additionally, it is a strong energy tonic and anti-aging food!
Shilajit
Shilajit is an incredible adaptogen used in Ayurvedic Medicine. Sanskrit texts describe it as the “destroyer of weakness.” Its rediscovery was made by Himalayan villagers who observed monkeys chewing the semisoft substance oozing from between the layers of rocks; the villagers found that when they ate the substance, it gave them incredible strength, vitality, wisdom and longevity. Later research studies showed that the substance is a combination of organic plant matter combined with the decomposing rock, containing over 85 minerals in ionic form along with fulvic and humic acids. Shilajit enhances overall strength and stamina and relieves stress and anxiety. It is a powerful rejuvenator and cleanser, too.
Schizandra Berry
Schizandra is an adaptogen that does just about everything. It is known as an herb that enhances physical as well as spiritual beauty. It’s a powerful blood tonic, as well as a blood cleanser, which is why it is said to make the skin soft, moist, and glowing. And it protects the skin from the harsh effects of the wind and sun. It also strengthens sexual energy and function in both men and women, and is an incredible endurance tonic for athletes—the two benefits often coincide. Though Schizandra sharpens the mind, improves concentration and enhances memory, it also has mild calming effects. In other studies Schizandra has been shown to improve vision and hearing.
There are a few more herbs that qualify as adaptogens. Since these herbs have such a great impact on our well-being, I call adaptogens my safety net or insurance policy. They help me stay in control of my reaction to stress. With their help, I avoid the desperate choices I could make when exhausted. And most often, adaptogens provide a boost of energy and clear mental calm.
Now we are fortunate to have access to these herbs with the click of a mouse. In the book Adaptogens; Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief, by Winston and Maimes, multi-herb formulas are recommended for their harmonizing and boosting effects. Though single-herb preparations are fine, a wide array of adaptogens proves to be more powerful and balanced. Because these herbs primarily restore balance in the body, they are safe to take on a regular, long-term basis, unlike “treatment” formulas.
Supplementing with adaptogens is the easiest step to take to support our health and wellness. Of the many choices, my personal favorite adaptogenic product is ShenTrition. I think it is the most powerful and effective formula on the market. Plus, its been mentioned in two books for its great effects (Integrative Endocrinology; The Rhythms of Life, by Dr. Don Beans and No Age Is the New Age; An Action Plan for Agelessness, A Longevity Guide for Men and Women 25 to 125, by Karen Norris and Eve Michaels.)
Do yourself a favor and take these herbs regularly! Safeguard your health and growth with adaptogens.
