How to Know Which Adaptogen is Right for You

Written by: Eartha Health

July 22, 2024

Time to read 3 min

Introduction to Adaptogens

Adaptogens are natural substances found in certain plants and mushrooms that help your body handle stress, anxiety, and fatigue. These plants target specific stressors and assist in maintaining balance.

Adaptogens were first studied and developed during World War II when scientists were on a mission to boost the performance of pilots. They were essentially trying to create a "superhero" pill to help pilots fly better, faster, and longer. They believed they found the solution in adaptogens, which seemed to offer the extra edge they were looking for.

To qualify as an adaptogen, a plant must:

Be non-toxic in normal doses.
Help the body manage stress.
Restore balance (homeostasis).

While adaptogens provide temporary relief from stress, they are not a long-term solution.

How They Work

Adaptogens work at a molecular level in our bodies by keeping the hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal glands balanced. These glands help manage stress. Basically, adaptogens "hack" the stress response in our bodies.

When we face stress, we go through three stages:

Alarm
Resistance
Exhaustion

For example, when we lift weights, our body releases hormones like adrenaline to boost performance and focus during the resistance phase. Eventually, we get tired and hit the exhaustion phase. Adaptogens help extend that middle "sweet spot" (resistance phase), keeping us energized longer.

Research on animals and neuronal cells showed that adaptogens possess:

neuroprotective elements
anti-fatigue properties
antidepressive effects
stimulant for central nervous system

Oh, and guess what? Adaptogens can boost mental work capacity, sharpen attention, and help prevent stress and fatigue. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, research suggests they might actually live up to the hype!

Adaptogenic Herbs and Mushrooms

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha has a positive effect on the endocrine, nervous, immune and cardiovascular systems by regulating your metabolism and helping you relax by calming how your brain responds to stress. Ashwagandha offers protection for your cells as an antioxidant and reduces swelling (an anti-inflammatory reaction). It has also been shown to boost testosterone levels, so if you have high androgens, such as in PCOS, you might want to consider another option from this list!

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Lion’s Mane supports cognitive function and mental clarity by enhancing nerve growth and brain health. It positively influences the nervous and immune systems, promoting overall well-being. Additionally, it offers antioxidant protection to your cells and helps reduce inflammation, contributing to a balanced, healthy body.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric supports overall health with its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps reduce swelling and discomfort while protecting cells from oxidative damage. Additionally, turmeric aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system and supports joint health, contributing to overall vitality and well-being.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Cordyceps boosts energy levels and physical performance by enhancing cellular ATP production. It supports respiratory and cardiovascular health, while also strengthening the immune system. This adaptogenic mushroom offers antioxidant protection to combat oxidative stress and helps reduce inflammation, promoting overall vitality and well-being.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Reishi enhances overall health by supporting the immune system and promoting relaxation. It helps balance stress levels and improve sleep quality. This adaptogen is also known for its antioxidant properties, which protect cells from damage, and its anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in reducing swelling and promoting a calm, balanced state of well-being.

Nobody likes feeling stressed out when life throws unexpected changes your way. That’s where adaptogens come in—they help your body manage stress better and get back on track when things start to feel out of balance.

Our Mushroom Complex 10x is a robust blend of 10 powerful mushrooms, including Cordyceps Sinensis, Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, and a unique mix of Maitake, Turkey Tail, Chaga, Royal Sun Agaricus, White Button, and Black Fungus. This dynamic combination harnesses the diverse benefits of each mushroom to support overall wellness and boost your body’s resilience.

Pair that with our Ashwagandha, a renowned adaptogen known for its stress-reducing and calming effects. Together, these products work in harmony to help replenish your body’s reserves, keeping you balanced and prepared for whatever life throws your way.

Here’s how to determine which one of our adaptogenic formulas are the best for you:

Best for Focus

Lion’s Mane : Known for its potential to support cognitive function and enhance mental clarity.
Mushroom Complex 10x : Includes Cordyceps, Reishi, and Lion’s Mane, which all aid in improving focus and cognitive performance.