Feeling like your batteries are constantly in need of a recharge?
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information and drowning in to-do lists, life can feel quite overwhelming.
As physical and mental health are closely related, you might start feeling tired, weak, and stressed. Sometimes, the reason for this can be adrenal fatigue - a condition where your adrenal glands fail to produce enough hormones for your body to handle stress.
Suffering from adrenal fatigue? Looking to alleviate your symptoms & improve your energy levels?
Adaptogenic herbs can help!
What’s Adrenal Fatigue?
When your body is under a lot of stress for a long time, it needs larger quantities of specific hormones that help deal with stress, such as cortisol and adrenaline.
These are produced by the adrenal glands - two small, triangular-shaped glands located above your kidneys. They also provide you with hormones that are essential for regulating blood sugar, blood pressure, and metabolism, and keeping you healthy and energized.
So, if you are feeling tired and stressed, this might mean that your adrenal glands can’t keep up with all the stress.
Here are some other signs you might be suffering from adrenal fatigue:
- Adrenal fatigue can cause insomnia or difficulty waking up
- Feeling dizzy
- Frequent headaches
- Potential hair loss
- Cravings for salty or sweet food
- Adrenal fatigue can also lead to weight gain
- Difficulty focusing
- Lower libido
- Weaker immune system
Worry not, though. By taking the right adaptogenic herbs, you can alleviate these adrenal fatigue symptoms and start feeling as good as new!
Worried that you might be experiencing symptoms of adrenal fatigue? Check out this article to read about the different stages of adrenal fatigue!
What Are Adaptogenic Herbs?
Adaptogenic herbs are naturally-occuring medicinal plants that have been part of Chinese and Ayurvedic culture for centuries. Research shows that adaptogens have a therapeutic effect on stress-related conditions, helping the body resist physical, chemical, biological and psychological stressors.
They are a great natural remedy to a variety of symptoms, especially ones related to endocrine function, immunity, and the nervous system. They can balance your hormone levels and provide you with energy, restoring the normal functions of the body.
While all adaptogenic herbs have a general normalizing and balancing effect, each of them has unique properties, so it would be a good idea to do some research before making your choice. Consulting with a professional is also important to find the best combination for your specific condition.
Adaptogenic Herbs & Adrenal Fatigue - How They Help?
As previously mentioned, adaptogenic herbs are a natural way to help your body deal with stress. This makes them a great solution to adrenal fatigue symptoms. They can give you back your energy without the caffeine crashes, and at the same time, they also boost your immune system. If you combine them with some healthier habits, you will recover from adrenal fatigue even faster!
Sounds awesome, right? There are dozens of adaptogenic herbs out there, so you might be wondering which one to take.
The following are the best adaptogenic herbs that can help you recover from adrenal fatigue:
Our Top 10 Adaptogenic Herbs to Cure Adrenal Fatigue
#1. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has been around for over 3,000 years in Ayurvedic healing to help battle adrenal fatigue. Firstly, it gives you energy and balances your cortisol levels. Secondly, it’s great food for the brain as it helps you focus and improves your memory.
This adaptogen herb also a great mood booster, having a calming effect on your nervous system and reducing anxiety. It balances the production of cortisol and thyroid hormones in your body, improves your metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties.
It is available in powder and capsule form. However, due to the bitter taste of the powder, most people prefer to take it in capsules.
This adaptogen is not recommended for:
- People with naturally low blood pressure
- Pregnant women
- People with diabetes (consult your doctor)
How to take Ashwagandha:
Our Ashwagandha capsules are uniquely created to be absorbed fast. They contain 2,100 mg Ashwagandha powder per serving, making them one of the most potent Ashwagandha supplements out there. You can take up to 3 capsules daily.
#2. Maca
Maca, also known as the Peruvian Ginseng, is another great adaptogenic herb that boosts energy and improves your mood. Maca helps keep your immune system strong. Furthermore, it balances the hormones of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, both related to the proper function of your adrenal glands.
Besides helping with symptoms of anxiety and depression, it also promotes reproductive health and fertility, helping with low libido - a common symptom of adrenal fatigue.
It is not recommended for:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- People with hormonal disorders due to estrogen content
How to take Maca:
Our maca is gelatinized and contains organic black pepper extract which makes it easier to absorb and digest. The standard dosage of maca is 1,500 - 3,000 mg, so all you need are 2 capsules a day.
#3. Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea, grown in the Siberian mountains, is a great adaptogen for your mental health as it alleviates anxiety and depression symptoms. It decreases fatigue, filling you with energy, stamina and a good mood.
Rhodiola gives your brain the focus and clarity it needs to get you through a busy day at work, at school, or home. At the end of those busy days, this adaptogenic herb also improves your sleep quality.
Rhodiola extract therapy is also used to treat people with lowered immunity, cardiac problems, and cancer.
It is not recommended for:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- People with low blood pressure or diabetes
- People with certain autoimmune diseases
How to take Rhodiola Rosea:
You can find it in pill form or as a tea. The recommended dosage for relieving adrenal fatigue symptoms is 400-600 mg in a single dose per day. Or, you can find rhodiola in combination with other adrenal fatigue herbs to provide you with a caffeine-free energy boost in our supplement A Little Pick Me Up. Two capsules per day and you will feel fresher than ever!
#4. Siberian Ginseng
Siberian Ginseng (also known as Eleuthero) is another Siberian adaptogenic herb which naturally regulates the stress hormone levels and improves mental health. It helps prevent several serious diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, heart diseases and autoimmune disorders. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and works great for boosting your energy and metabolism.
It is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Siberian Ginseng slows down blood clotting and might affect your blood sugar levels.
How to take Siberian Ginseng:
Although the recommended daily intake may vary, generally, about 400 mg of siberian ginseng per day is a good start for adults. The dosage of the Solgar supplement pictured above is 1-3 capsules per day.
#5. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is one of the longest living tree species in the world. This adaptogenic herb has been part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries as a remedy for many different diseases. It is mostly famous for having a positive effect on blood circulation and heart health, as well as improving memory and focus.
Ginkgo Biloba is a miracle worker for adrenal fatigue because its leaves contain a counteractive effect on adrenaline, significantly reducing stress on the body and the mind.
If you’re also suffering from headache, migraines, and PMS symptoms, ginkgo biloba can provide relief. Several studies have proven that ginkgo biloba has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a widely used herb in modern-day medicine.
How to take Ginkgo Biloba:
Ginkgo Biloba can mostly be found as a pill, tea, or liquid extract. Most research has shown that 120-240 mg of Ginkgo Biloba is a safe dosage to take, up to a maximum of 600 mg per day. Start with a lower dose and increase it incrementally. You should notice the positive effects within a few weeks.
If you are looking for an adrenal fatigue supplement to improve your mood and get rid of all the tension and anxiety, our supplement Joy-Filled contains Ginkgo Biloba, alongside several other essential herbs!
#6. Holy Basil
Holy basil (also known as Tulsi) is an Asian adaptogenic herb that can help you deal with stress and reduce anxiety symptoms.
There is significant scientific evidence that this herb has a unique combination of properties that help protect the body from physical, chemical, metabolic and psychological stress.
For example, it normalizes blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels, and improves brain function.
It also protects the stomach and counteracts the effects of stress-induced ulcers.
Finally, Holy basil also helps you get better sleep by reducing cortisol levels. So, if you’re having trouble sleeping due to adrenal fatigue, you can make yourself a relaxing tea from dried holy basil leaves. If the taste is too bitter for you, you can add some honey.
Due to its specific taste, holy basil is also known as “hot basil” and can sometimes be used in cooking.
Warnings:
- Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Stop using at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery as it might slow blood clotting
How to take Holy Basil:
Besides an evening tea and a spicy ingredient, holy basil can easily be found in a pill form. The recommended dosage varies depending on the person, but research shows that taking 500 mg of holy basil leaf extract twice a day or 400 mg in the morning and 800 mg in the evening helps reduce anxiety and stress.
#7. Schisandra
Schisandra is an Asian adaptogenic herb that helps with stress and depression. It’s a great option if your immune system has become weaker, which is a common symptom of adrenal fatigue.
One of the key benefits of this herb is that it increases your endurance and mental performance.
The red berries of the schisandra contain the phytoestrogen ingredient lignan, making them an estrogen-boosting food.
This plant is also used in treating several medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s and liver disease.
How to take Schisandra:
Schisandra can be found in many forms - powder, pill, extract, dried berries, or as a juice. To improve mental and physical performance, doctors recommend 500 mg to 2 grams of schisandra extract daily. If you’re having it as a tea, you can go for 5-15 grams per day. For a great energy-boosting combination of schisandra and other herbs, check out our product A Little Pick Me Up.
#8. Licorice
Organic Ashwagandha
Known for its use in Ayurvedic healing, Ashwagandha has been used for over 3,000 years to help reduce stress. It does this by:
- Normalizing your stress levels and mood
- Promoting speedier relief from cortisol and adrenal fatigue
- Boosting your immune system with this powerful adaptogen
Try it risk free with our 60-Day Money Back Guarantee.
You might immediately think of black licorice candy and be tempted to skip this one, but hear us out. Licorice root is a staple adaptogen in Chinese medicine and can do wonders for your body. It boosts your energy and endurance and strengthens your immune system.
When it comes to adrenal fatigue, licorice is one of the best natural remedies. Among its over 100 compounds is one called glycyrrhizic acid, which signals your adrenal glands to stop producing cortisol. This will make you feel less tired and stressed.
Keep in mind that you might be sensitive to glycyrrhizic acid, so you should consult your doctor before use.
This plant also helps maintain a healthy hormone balance and glucose levels, which is essential for normal adrenal function.
Licorice is also great for your digestive and respiratory system. Its anti-inflammatory properties help a lot with issues such as sore throat and skin inflammation. It also relieves stomach pain and some menopause symptoms.
How to take Licorice:
Licorice root can be found in dry or fresh form. It is also sold as a tincture, tea, or gel, or in pill or powder form. If you are using a standardized extract, the recommended dose is around 25-75 mg per day.
#9. Astragalus
Astragalus is a Chinese adaptogenic herb that helps strengthen your immune system and deal with chronic fatigue.
It helps normalize blood sugar levels and is very good for the heart and the kidneys.
If you’re experiencing weight gain due to stress, astragalus would be good for you. It makes cells more receptive to insulin and protects against metabolic syndrome.
How to take Astragalus:
Astragalus can be found as capsules, liquid extracts, or tea. The recommended daily dose is up to 60 grams per day.
#10. Korean Ginseng
Korean ginseng (also known as Panax ginseng) is a great way to relieve the tiredness and poor focus and memory that can come with adrenal fatigue. This adaptogenic herb reduces the oxidative stress in your cells and improves your cognitive function.
Korean ginseng helps improve your mood and keep you filled with energy throughout the day.
With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it boosts your immune system and helps you recover from sickness more quickly.
How to take Korean ginseng:
You can eat Korean ginseng root directly or use it to brew tea. It’s a common cooking ingredient in Korean cuisine due to its unique, mostly bitter taste, and medicinal properties. You can also find Korean ginseng extract as a pill, powder, or oil. The average dose is about 200 to 400 mg per day.
Not sure what's causing your adrenal fatigue? Alcohol could be the reason. Check out our detailed article on how alcohol might cause adrenal fatigue to find out!
How to Cure Adrenal Fatigue - Other Tips
Nature has generously provided several remedies to help you deal with adrenal fatigue. However, it’s also up to you to make some lifestyle changes to alleviate adrenal fatigue symptoms.
Here are some of our top tips on how to do that:
#1. Improve your diet
It’s true - you are what you eat. If you want to improve your health and be strong enough to fight the stress, it’s important to provide your body with the right nutrients. Here are some of the best foods to help with your adrenal fatigue:
- Whole grains. Refined grains contain very low quantities of healthy fibers and carbohydrates, if any. Instead, opt for whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat, and buckwheat. These contain much more fiber, vitamins, and proteins. Don’t be scared of the higher amount of calories - whole grains break down slower in your body, which means you’ll feel full and energized for much longer.
- Leafy greens. There’s a reason we were always told to eat our veggies as kids. Leafy greens are packed with healthy nutrients such as vitamin K, the B vitamins and calcium. They are also a good source of magnesium, which is an essential mineral for the normal functioning of the adrenal glands. Add some spinach, kale, broccoli, or other leafy greens to your diet, and you’ll be doing yourself a huge favor!
- Seeds and nuts. Stack up on some cashews, walnuts, almonds, flax seeds, and sesame seeds. They contain fatty acids like Omega 3 and Omega 6 which are important for the health of your adrenal glands. They also help reduce inflammation, and are a quick and convenient snack that can help with adrenal fatigue. Another rich source of Omega 3 is fatty fish like salmon and herring.
- Lean meats. Look for grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and turkey. They are a great source of protein and minerals to fill you up with energy and support your adrenal glands. You could also get your protein from dairy and eggs, which are a good option for vegetarians.
To learn more about the best foods to fight adrenal fatigue, check out our article about diets that help with adrenal fatigue.
#2. Get enough rest
Forget about “sleep is for the weak”. If you have a busy lifestyle, you might often find yourself staying up late to finish up some tasks. Or maybe late at night is the only quiet time you get.
However, don’t forget that your body needs 7-8 hours of sleep to function normally. If you don’t manage to get all of those during the night, make sure to find time for a 30-minute nap in the afternoon. This could give you that energy boost you need to get through the day.
#3. Go for some light exercise
You might be thinking: “I’m tired, I don’t have the energy to work out.”
When you are experiencing adrenal fatigue and there is a hormone and mineral imbalance in your body, an intense workout might not be the best idea.
However, you don’t have to shoot for cardio or high interval exercises.
Exercise is an essential part of your routine to maintain good heart and lung health and build up your endurance. So, to stay active, you can go for more gentle and light forms of exercise, such as yoga, pilates, stretching, or simply taking a walk.
For starters, you can try out these exercises for adrenal fatigue.
However, if you have more severe symptoms of adrenal fatigue, take the time you need until you feel ready to start exercising.
#4. Stay hydrated
It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially when you have adrenal fatigue. The recommended daily fluid intake is about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) for men and about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women.
While about 20% of your daily fluid intake comes from food, it’s important to remember to drink enough water and other fluids.
#5. Aromatherapy
Diffusing essential oils is a great way to alleviate stress and recover from adrenal fatigue. If you don’t have a diffuser, you can also rub them on your neck and shoulders.
Just be careful in case you have an allergy to any essential oils.
Some of the essential oils we recommend to calm common adrenal fatigue symptoms are lavender, rose, jasmine, sage, ylang ylang and bergamot.
Final Thoughts
Adrenal fatigue is not a final sentence. Many of us experience it due to the busy and stressful lifestyles we lead.
We hope this article helped you see all the various ways you can help your body relax and get back its energy and strength. Step by step, by following these tips, you will surely notice significant improvement in your health and mood.
So, make a change and treat your body the way it deserves to be treated.
Be patient with yourself.