Deccan Chronicle

Herbs for strength, stamina & stress relief

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TACCORDING TO WELLNESS-FOCUSED

TECHNOLOGY COMPANY SPINS, IN

2020, SLEEP SUPPLEMENT­S

CONTAINING ASHWAGANDH­A (SAID TO REDUCE

ANXIETY) SAW A

3,995% INCREASE IN SALES.

here are 21 herbs classified as adaptogens or possible adaptogens, which include ashwagandh­a, rhodiola, astragalus, reishi, tulsi (holy basil), licorice and panax (Korean) ginseng. “These primitive herbs are a one-stop solution to many modern-world health problems like hormone imbalance, anxiety, acute stress & weak immune health,” says Aman Puri.

ASHWAGANDH­A | According to the Indian Journal of Psychology Medicine, patients who took a high level of ashwagandh­a for 45 days were more likely to cope with stress more efficientl­y than those who took a placebo.

According to Karishma Shah, this herb works to restore balance and strengthen the functionin­g of the body. “It does so by helping us to adapt to the impact of stress. Ashwagandh­a is relaxing and calming, facilitate­s balance throughout the body and helps relax the

nervous system. It is popularly used in teas and as a supplement,” adds Karishma.

REISHI MUSHROOMS | This medicinal adaptogeni­c mushroom helps in balancing one’s mood, supporting concentrat­ion, relieving anxiety and preventing infections. Reishi mushroom coffee is a new trend that people in the west are adapting to. It can also be used in soups and teas, and as a dietary supplement.

HOLY BASIL | Also known as Tulsi, Holy Basil has other properties. For instance, it is antiseptic, anti-inflammato­ry, digestive and anti-bacterial. It can be used in teas, infusions and oriental cuisines or can be eaten as itself. This adaptogeni­c herb supports the immune system.

SHATAVARI | Also known as queen of herbs in ayurveda, this herb is popularly used as female reproducti­ve tonic. According to Karishma, it is excellent for lactating mothers too for coping up with physical and mental stress postpartum. “Shatavari is also used to combat indigestio­n, fever, heartburn and gastric ulcers. It can be taken in powder, tincture and tablet forms,” she adds.

BRAHMI | Also known as Gotu kola in Sanskrit and in Ayurveda, Brahmi nourishes the mind and supports the brain and the nervous system. It also helps the body in coping with stress. Brahmi can be incorporat­ed as juice, powder or capsules.

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