Adaptogens: Herbal Remedy for Stress

In Part One we discussed the adaptogenic herbs Rhodiola rosea, American ginseng, Ashwaghanda, Eleuthero and Schisandra. in supporting health, especially during times of stress.

Part Two continues with Tulsi leaves, Licorice, Codonopsis and Cordyceps.

Holy Basil (Ocimum sactum)

Holy basil tea is a popular herbal remedy for stress and is one of my favorite teas.

Organic India company sells tulsi tea on-line and in health food stores. It comes plain or combined with other herbs.

Tulsi leaves can be also be bought in bulk from Mountain Rose Herbs and other reliable suppliers and brewed as a loose herb tea.

Tulsi leaves are a mildly stimulating, warming adaptogen with many uses. This adaptogen stimulates the HPA axis and enhances normal immune function. It can help lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. Tulsi is traditionally used to improve memory while reducing brain fog and mental fatigue. It may lift your mood if you are feeling down.

Tulsi tea is a traditional Ayurevedic remedy for coughs and colds, headache, and a variety of ailments. It's antiviral activity has been shown to reduce herpes and shingles outbreaks by half. Tulsi is used to treat gas, nausea and stomach upset. It may have an anti-fertility action and thins the blood.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice can help heal gastric ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome due to its moistening qualities. It can be helpful in reducing coughs and histamine production. Licorice is often used as a small part of an herbal formula (5-10%) because it tastes good and helps moderate the effects of stronger herbs. Too much licorice is known to raise blood pressure in sensitive individuals.

Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula)

Codonopsis strengthens the HPA axis, especially adrenal function and enhances the immune system. Its helpful for fatigue, weakness and 'deficient' insomnia. It helps improve poor appetite and stomach irritation and can help protect against ulcers caused bystress.

Cordyceps Mushroom (Cordyceps sinensis)

Cordyceps is very helpful in supporting the adrenal glands. It makes cells use cortisol more efficiently. Because the glands produce less of the stress hormone cortisol, they don't have to work as hard.

It increases blood flow to the brain and is useful for treating tinnitus and depression. Cordyceps has been shown to lower LDL and VLDL cholesterol levels. It strengthens the immune system and has anti-tumor activity.

This mushroom improves libido and sperm count in men. It speeds up muscle recovery and enhances athletic training.

Not all herbs for stress relief are adaptogens. There are several herbs that directly support your nervous system and help ease feelings of stress and anxiety. Read about these calming and relaxing herbs here.