The Power of Adaptogens: 3 More Must-Know Adaptogens & The Research Behind Them - Part 2

Research shows that adaptogens can enhance the human body’s resistance to external stress conditions by affecting different systems, like your immune system, endocrine system, and much more. The phrase adaptogen was first used in 1940 by a USSR doctor about schisandra. They defined adaptogens as helping with resistance against physical, chemical, or biological stresses, such as environmental pollution, infectious diseases, and interpersonal disharmony. Other requirements include adaptogens helping resist physical disorders caused by stress, and lastly, they shouldn’t harm the body’s normal functioning. 

This definition has continued to evolve over the decades. Still, these general guidelines hold true today, making adaptogens a very attractive herb for so many of us because let’s be real — stress is everywhere. Whether it’s the pollution we have little control over, exposure to infectious diseases, or stress in our personal lives, most of us can use a leg up to protect ourselves. 

As part of our adaptogen series, we’re diving into three more adaptogens today and what research shows about these marvelous plants. 

Schisandra

Schisandra, or Schizandra, is a purported adaptogen that may support other bodily functions, such as healthy liver and digestive function, making it a fantastic pick for many people. 

Here are just a couple of the amazing benefits we found during our research. 

A 2014 study found that schizandra is an effective somnifacient (an herb that helps induce sleep). The study concluded that schisandra “produces beneficial sedative and hypnotic bioactivity,” which may help reverse insomnia brought on by caffeine. We all know that sleep is SO important for our health and stress management, so this is a fantastic find. 

Another fascinating study found that schisandra gave participants a stress-protective effect against many harmful factors and increased physical working capacity while under pressure. It was also shown to have substantial antioxidant activities and improve mental performance, endurance, and accuracy of movement, which is incredible!

Lastly, we found a study that assessed whether schisandra extract influenced chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression and cognitive impairment. Researchers shared that schizandra is a promising agent for treating depression and showed promising results related to cognitive improvement. 

Interested in trying schisandra out? Try these herbal favorites: 

• Schisandra Capsules: Our pure schisandra capsules promote a healthy response to stress and improved liver function. They may also help normalize your nervous system and immune activity, further helping your stress response. 
• Adapto-Gen Capsules: This powerful capsule blend supports a healthy stress response and improved energy and endurance. We’ve combined ashwagandha, schisandra, sarsaparilla, ginger, and other supportive herbs to give you the ultimate boost. 
• Eye See You Tea: For a boost of antioxidants, our berry-rich tea is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for supporting eye health. Plus, it has a delightful orange-blueberry flavor.
• Schisandra Berries: A perfect snack! This delicious berry contains all five tastes. It can encourage healthy digestive and liver function and promote better stress management. 

Maca

Maca is a tuber originating from the Peruvian Andes mountains. Herbalists have used this adaptogen for centuries to treat stress, energy, poor mood, and even a low libido (which we all know tends to take a hit when our stress levels are out of whack). 

Several studies have demonstrated that maca has unique properties, like anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-fatigue. One study found that maca alleviated exercise-induced fatigue and even improved exercise performance. 

Another study found that maca extract intake improved daily fatigue in women. After four weeks of maca intake, fatigue was significantly lower in the maca group, suggesting that maca may have anti-fatigue effects.  

A 2016 study on animals found that maca has neuroprotective effects and improved cognitive function, motor coordination, and endurance capacity in middle-aged mice. Researchers believe this is because maca increases mitochondrial respiratory function and may even be an effective functional food for slowing age-related cognitive decline — which is a fantastic find! 

Curious about this potent tuber? Here are a few of our favorite maca remedies: 

• Maca Root Powder: Maca Root Powder is traditionally used to encourage better energy, longevity, and fertility and to help athletes enhance their energy levels, endurance, and muscle strength. Adding this powder to water, a smoothie, cereal, yogurt, and so much more makes it a versatile option. 
• Women’s Potency Capsules: These capsules are ideal for supporting a healthy libido in women and may improve sexual desire. Many clients also use it to support vaginal dryness. 
• Super Women Powder: If you’re looking for an all-in-one formula, this is it! This herb blend contains maca root, chaste berry, black cohosh, rhodiola, and other supportive herbs to increase overall energy and support female hormones (which definitely impact energy and stress). 

Sarsaparilla

When we think of sarsaparilla, many of us think of the flavor or beverage, but the root has many incredible purported health benefits. 

For example, one study shares that sarsaparilla was found to protect against liver injury, modulate immunity, lower blood glucose, and even suppress cancer. 

Astilbin, a vital flavonoid derived from sarsaparilla, has also been studied. Scientists have discovered that it may improve kidney function and help with oxidative stress and inflammation. 

For more information and research into sarsaparilla’s health benefits, read our previous article on sarsaparilla root benefits. 

Want to add sarsaparilla to your diet? Check out these supportive supplements: 

• Sarsaparilla Capsules: Herbalists have traditionally used sarsaparilla for blood cleansing, psoriatic arthritis, reproductive health in men, and liver health. These pure sarsaparilla capsules are a quick way to add this herb to your day-to-day routine. 
• Pros Balance Capsules: This formula is specially curated to encourage healthy prostate function and optimize male hormonal balance for men over 40. It may encourage better energy levels, normalize hormones, and improve male libido. 
• Root Beer Float Honeybush Tea: Love the taste of sarsaparilla? This refreshing tea has a sweet mint-like flavor and sassafras to make a decadent, creamy combo you’ll love. 

If you missed it, check out our first piece in the adaptogen series here. 

Thank you for spending time with us today and learning about adaptogens and their unique benefits! Stay tuned for the next piece in this adaptogen series. There are so many to learn about. 

Best Wishes, 

Herbalist Natalie & Herbalist Leilah