Medicinal plants known as adaptogens have the virtue of strengthening our ability to resist stress and the drop in energy due to physical and intellectual efforts. They thus improve our immune system and our ability to adapt to the various tensions and anxiety of psychological and environmental origin to which the body is constantly subjected. Here are the best of them to support us in the face of everyday stress:
- ginseng
Ginseng (Panax ginseng), of Asian origin, is one of the most recommended adaptogenic plants. It helps relieve fatigue and release stress while strengthening the immune system. Its main advantage lies in its multiple pharmacological properties, allowing it to maintain balance and allowing the body to adjust more easily to different stressful situations.
- Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb of Indian origin. It is particularly indicated in case of stress, insomnia or anxiety. Used in Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen immune defenses and stimulate vitality, it acts as a regulator and improves the function of the adrenal glands, thus facilitating the body’s adaptation to situations of stress, physical or mental fatigue. Some sources indicate that this plant also has aphrodisiac effects.
- Astragalus
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a medicinal plant that has toning and stimulating properties. This adaptogenic plant helps fight fatigue and strengthen the immune system. Astragalus root is particularly indicated in Chinese medicine to reduce the secretion of stress-related hormones and strengthen the body’s ability to prevent damage caused by anxiety and low energy.
- The aloe vera
Aloe vera contributes to the overall balance of the different functions of the body. Its regulating effect has been known for centuries, even if it is its anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties that are most often mentioned. Aloe has natural substances and different active ingredients that allow the body to better manage stress, whatever its origin. Aloe gel contains about 99% water, it is the part most used in traditional medicine.
- Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosmarini officinalis) is an invigorating, antirheumatic and aromatic plant. It can flavor dishes or be consumed in herbal tea or decoction. Known to improve concentration and strengthen memory, this adaptogenic plant is also antispasmodic, therefore recommended for people whose stress results in stomach aches. Rosemary has a stimulating effect in case of physical or moral fatigue. It is also beneficial for overworked or slightly depressed people. Rosemary essential oil is reputed to be effective in cases of stress, headaches or migraines.
- Eleutherococcus
Eleutherococcus (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is an adaptogenic and immunostimulating herb known for its ability to improve physical performance. In case of fatigue stress or convalescence, it has stimulating properties allowing better recovery and greater adaptation of the body. It acts as much on the adrenals as on the nervous systems and can be combined with rosemary to strengthen cognitive abilities.
- Rhodiola
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) strengthens physical and mental capacity. This plant, particularly used in Russia, adapts to the needs of the body and helps to reduce the effect of stress and anxiety. In case of fatigue or asthenia, it facilitates recovery and increases endurance.
- Maca
Originally from Peru, maca (Lepidium meyenii) is particularly known for its aphrodisiac effects, but it is also an adaptogenic plant. It helps to drive out stress, chronic or mental fatigue and to improve physical resistance. Thanks to its toning properties, it is an excellent remedy for revitalizing the body, increasing energy and stimulating the nervous system.
- The centella-asian
Centella-asiatica (Centella asiatica) is generally used for its moisturizing and healing effects. However, it has other virtues, those of relieving the symptoms of fatigue and stress. Its adaptogenic and regulating properties make it possible to harmonize the mental balance, to treat the disorders of the concentration and to reinforce the memory.
- Echinacea
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea DC) is an adaptogenic herb native to North America. It strengthens the body and strengthens the immune system. Recommended to reduce the symptoms of cold and to gain tone, especially in winter, it helps to drive away fatigue and stress, even if its effectiveness remains low compared to other plants.
Source :
Alexander Panossian: Evidence-Based Efficacy of Adaptogens in Fatigue, and Molecular Mechanisms Related to their Stress-Protective Activity. Current Clinical Pharmacology. DOI: 10.2174/157488409789375311
