Everything You Need To Know About Adaptogens
As a woman living the modern life––balancing career, love, and family––we soon begin to get serious about self-care. Whether feeling the anxiety of an approaching deadline, carrying the load of stress that is parenting, or battling a relationship rut, we often find ourselves bogged down by a state of strain or tension. Fortunately for us, modern-day medicine is here to save the day!
Meet adaptogens, the latest buzzword in health and wellness. Used for centuries in Chinese and ancient Indian healing, these herbs and roots are said to aid you in omitting life's mini-meltdowns and so much more. Here's what you need to know:
What TF Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens, in layman's terms, are non-toxic herbs and roots that come in a variety of forms––each containing powerful properties for combating life's common woes.
What’s All The Hype Around Adaptogens?
It's no secret that stress-related health illnesses have reached an all-time high in the United States. In fact, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) report showed nearly half of all Americans use at least one prescription drug and one in six are taking upwards of three or more medications. Tack on the use of energy drinks––an obnoxious dose of caffeine and sugar––to put some pep in our step and we've reached epidemic proportions!
So, whether you're prepping for a week of meetings, channeling your inner soccer mom, or studying for finals, adaptogens––known for fighting fatigue, easing depression, anxiety, and boosting overall wellbeing––may be the key to getting you through.
How Do You Implement Adaptogens Into Your Diet?
Take in the morning along with your multivitamin, eat with a meal or brew into your go-to tea of the herbal variety. No matter your poison, here are our top picks for adding adaptogens into your diet.
7 Adaptogens To Add To Your Diet
1. American Ginseng
Comes in handy for those yearning to boost their immune system as well as their working memory and reaction time.
2. Brain Dust
Powered by Moon Juice, this supplement claims to "enhance focus and mental stamina, promote mental clarity, promote a positive mind and mood, and alleviate the effects of stress."
3. Holy Basil
Chocked full of vitamin A and C, calcium, zinc, iron, and chlorophyll, studies support the use of the entire plant as it reduces stress, sexual problems, sleep deprivation, forgetfulness, and exhaustion.
4. Licorice Root
Used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, licorice root is best known for treating skin inflammation and infections like eczema, kill bacteria causing tooth decay, and much more.
5. Moon Juice Sex Dust
Sex Dust is a blend of Shatavari, Shilajit, Epimedium, Schisandra, Cacao and Maca said to target stress and support healthy hormonal balance. The best part? Combined, this concoction is believed to ignite libido and increase energy in the bedroom.
6. Turmeric
Also known as the spice that gives delicious curry its yellow color, when consumed with curcumin, this medicinal herb kicks inflammation to the curb.
7. Siberian Ginseng
Native to Japan and northern China, among others, research suggests this herb may help improve fight-or-flight stress responses, improve sexual health and increase nervous system function.
Though, there's been little testing on human subjects. As with any supplement, adaptogens may have side effects. So, do your research and contact your healthcare provider before beginning a new herbal regimen.
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Lover of tacos and a killer jacket. Keanu Reeves is bae. Mother of two amazingly awesome children. I live by one rule: Don't be a Richard. Follow me on Instagram @truthhawkins.
Black women are not a monolith. We all are deserving of healing and wholeness despite what we've been through, how much money we have in the bank, or what we look like. Most importantly, we are enough—even when we are not working, earning, or serving.
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Ariel B's "This Too Shall Pass" Podcast Is Healing For Single Moms Everywhere
32-year-old social media influencer and mother of five, Ariel B, did not set out to tell her story; but it was her truth that set her free. Her truth is also the inspiration for her new podcast "This Too Shall Pass," produced by Idea To Launch Productions. The podcast delves into Ariel's life and journey as a single parent and a domestic violence survivor. But it also serves as a window into her past traumas that have fostered her resilience.
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"This Too Shall Pass" is out now!
