Adaptogens, or adaptogenic substances, decrease our sensitivity to stress. Our adrenal system often gets overtaxed by common life events: getting married, increased job responsibilities, buying a house, social pressure and for some athletes, overtraining for an event. Adaptogens are not a new concept: for centuries, they’ve been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to boost energy and build resilience.
In this article, we’ll take a deeper look into adaptogenic beverage options, some of which can offer the alertness of a cup coffee, without the possible side effects of acidity, indigestion, and anxiety. Adaptogenic drinks offer steady, calm energy which often allows us to lead consistently energetic days. I like to call them nature’s magical elixirs.
3 Adaptogenic Drinks to Boost Your Adrenals
1. Maca Hot Cacao
Maca root is an adaptogen which offers hormone balance, increased stamina, and elevated energy levels. 100% Cacao powder offers powerful antioxidants, contains absorbable magnesium, iron and calcium is natural a mood booster.
Recipe for “Maca Hot Cacao”
Whisk ¼ tsp each of maca powder and 100% cacao powder into 1 cup warm, unsweetened nut milk for a simple delicious beverage. Optional: Add 1 tsp coconut sugar, for added sweetness.
2. Mushroom Elixirs
Many varieties of mushrooms such lion’s mane, reishi, cordyceps, and chaga offer adaptogenic benefits. These can be combined with water for a drinkable mix. An innovative company Four Sigmatic, is taking this concept to whole new heights, offering mushroom powder packets and tins, complete with education on health benefits and consumption suggestions.
3. Simple Tea Tonic
Steeping adaptogenic herbs for 15 minutes in a mug of hot water can be an effective way to include a variety of stress-busting ingredients in your diet.
Here are some of the most powerful adaptogenic herbs:
Asian ginseng, holy basil, milk thistle, ashwagandha, rhodiola rosea, Siberian ginseng, rosemary, aloe vera, astragalus, schisandra, bacopa, and licorice root.
Whichever beverage you choose, consider starting with smaller quantities to see how your body reacts. Don’t be afraid to switch it up on a daily or weekly basis to maintain variety in your diet.
Originally posted 2018-03-06 16:21:26.
