As a highly sensitive soul you may experience frayed nerves, anxiety and overwhelm from time to time. Your energetic field is more permeable than others. That’s why incorporating adaptogens into your self-care routine is healing and fortifying.
Adaptogens are nature’s medicine. The term was first adopted by a Soviet toxicologist who was looking for a way to enhance athletic performance without resorting to anabolic steroids. He discovered that adaptogens were a worthwhile substitute. But what are they exactly? The definition will vary depending on who you ask, partly because they affect each person differently. In essence, adaptogens are herbs that improve a person’s ability to cope with stress and normalize physiological functions.
Adaptogens have had a meteoric rise in fame mainly due to their stress-reducing benefits. The three that I incorporate regularly are: tulsi (holy basil), reishi and ashwagandha. This holy trinity is ideal for empaths because it soothes overworked adrenals. If you experience anxiety or stress, these herbal allies are a nurturing support system. They induce a sense of tranquility and calm, like being wrapped up in a cozy blanket by the fire with a beloved pet on your lap. Don’t be surprised if you begin to believe that everything is going to be okay.
1. Tulsi– Tulsi is revered by the people of India. It is considered an herbal guardian for those undergoing life transitions. This may be why it is referred to as ‘holy basil.’ It is also antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal so it is a suitable ally for many illnesses and maladies. I like to sip tulsi ginger turmeric tea when I’ve had a particularly difficult day. It takes me down a notch and smooths all the rough edges of a frazzled aura. When I drink tulsi I experience that profound relaxation that you get after a serene day at the spa, as though I am radiating inner peace. When I am traveling I always make sure to bring along holy basil to quell my fear of flying. It is also a source of solace for the energetic toll that traveling takes on an empath- being exposed to other people’s energy and germs, the radiation from X-ray machines, etc. Tulsi is probably my favorite adaptogen because it makes my body and mind feel the most balanced.
2. Reishi– Another adaptogen worth adding to your herbal arsenal is reishi. Reishi is known as the Queen of Mushrooms, a hearty, woody variety with a distinctive red cap. This rare mushroom possesses special tonifying properties. Preliminary research even indicates that it has the ability to shrink tumors! It is also contains abundant antioxidants that destroy free radicals and strengthen the immune system. Reishi also decreases insomnia and improves overall sleep quality. I like to drink this reishi hot cacao elixir before bed. It curbs my chocolate cravings and creates a pleasant sleepiness. Substituting oat milk for water makes for an indulgent treat. You can also imbibe reishi in powder or tincture form.
3. Ashwagandha– The final adaptogen I recommend for sensitive souls and perhaps the most well-known ayurvedic herb is ashwagandha. Ashwagandha balances the body’s cortisol levels (aka stress hormones) and provides nervous system and endocrine support. It is also correlated with increased libido. I reach for ashwagandha if I experience anxiety that lasts longer than a couple days. It is my holistic alternative to anti-anxiety meds; although that is not to say that I am opposed to medication or that it is a viable substitute- everyone’s body and journey is different and I honor that. I recommended it to a family member and it has yielded positive results for them as well. It is a very commonly used herb in India. I buy ashwagandha powder and add it to hot water. You can also add it to smoothies and teas if you are so inclined. It is possible to purchase it in capsule form as well, but I prescribe to the ayurvedic tradition that the taste of the herb(s) is part of their medicine.
Adaptogens are a useful tool for managing stress, but let’s not lose sight of the fact that they are not a miracle cure. They are akin to a bandaid that may temporarily treat the symptoms, but not the underlying issues or root of the problem. Their benefits are most palpable when taken regularly as they have a cumulative effect. Don’t expect to drink reishi once a week and notice a big difference in how you feel. Also, it is best to practice discernment. Try each one, observe how they change your body’s chemistry and use your intuition as a guide for mindful use.
Adaptogens normalize biological functions. And because every body is different they will affect each individual in a unique way. While all adaptogens nourish the immune system and are believed to extend the lifespan, their physiological impact will vary. For example, they might lower the blood pressure of someone whose bp is too high, or raise it in someone with low bp. Adaptogens can also stimulate someone with low energy while simultaneously reducing stress levels. They are truly one-of-a-kind!
Adaptogens are masters of balance, bringing your body into an optimum state of homeostasis. They regulate blood pressure, increase liver and kidney function, lubricate the skin and joints, improve memory and reaction time, protect the heart by reducing cholesterol, strengthen the lungs, reduce inflammation and more. However, what makes them so helpful for empaths is their capacity to quiet the mind and bring about profound inner peace.
What adaptogenic allies have you welcomed into your life?
Do you have any favorites?
Here’s one of my favorite recipes for an adaptogenic tonic that will foster balance and good vibes. It also happens to be delicious!
Autumnal Adaptogen Elixir
Ingredients:
- 1 medjool date or honey
- 1 tbsp coconut butter
- 1 cup of oat milk (or non-dairy milk of choice)
- 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha
- 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp of nutmeg
- Pour milk into a saucepan and add cinnamon, nutmeg, date, coconut butter and ashwagandha
- Turn burner to medium heat and allow milk to simmer until it forms bubbles
- Transfer the liquid to a blender
- Blend for about 30 seconds, pour into your favorite mug and enjoy 🙂
Sources:
Bhanot, Deepak. “Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi Benefits, Uses, Research – TAE Blog.” The Ayurveda Experience Blog, 19 Oct. 2019, www.theayurvedaexperience.com/blog/tulsi-benefits-holy-basil/.
“The Essential Guide to Ashwagandha, Everything You Need to Know.” Gaia Herbs, 11 Aug. 2017, www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/seeds-of-knowledge/the-essential-guide-to-ashwagandha-everything-you-need-to-know.
“Health Benefits of Holy Basil: Ayurveda’s ‘Sacred Herb.’” Organixx, 9 Oct. 2019, organixx.com/health-benefits-holy-basil/.
Morton, Katie. “Reishi Mushrooms: 10 Health Benefits to Know.” Well+Good, Well+Good, 24 Oct. 2019, www.wellandgood.com/good-food/reishi-mushroom-benefits/.
Pottruff, Jennifer. “What Are Adaptogenic Herbs?” Integrative Therapeutics, LLC, 26 Apr. 2016, www.integrativepro.com/Resources/Integrative-Blog/2016/What-are-Adaptogens-or-Adaptogenic-Herbs.
“Ultimate Guide to Adaptogens.” Metta Beverage Inc., drinkmetta.com/blogs/the-elevated-life/the-ultimate-guide-to-adaptogens.
“What Is Ashwagandha? Health Benefits & More: Chopra Center.” The Chopra Center, 23 Oct. 2019, chopra.com/articles/what-is-ashwagandha.
