The Adaptogen and SuperFood Arsenal ….
Below is a list of the current Adaptogens and Superfoods I am currently using…. These are some of the ones I feel best fit me and my specific needs. I encourage anyone to research for his or her own needs and consult with your primary care physician to see if these herbs will work for you.
What are adaptogens any way should I use them?
Adaptogens are a unique group of herbs that are used to help the body regulate different hormones. Adaptogens comes from the Latin word Adaptare, which means to adjust. Adaptogens adjust to what your body needs with either an increase in activity of a certain hormone, or a decrease. Adaptogens have been shown to have an effect on the nervous system particularly regulating stress and cortisol levels. Adaptogens can be added to smoothies, coffee, teas, and even baking. I notice the most benefits from these herbs when I take them on a regular basis. I usually incorporate them in my morning Matcha Latte.
Ashwagandha
I use this adaptogen on an every day basis. Ashwagandha is a vital herb in Ayurvedic Medicine with a long history of therapeutic use and is sometimes referred to as "Indian Ginseng." The name Ashwagandha comes from a root, which is said to have “the smell of a horse” and is considered a food to improve stamina and sexual health in men and women The plant contains a full spectrum of healing properties that have the following benefits:
· Tonify the immune system
· Inspire Vigor and Strength
· Increase the body's levels of Super Oxide Dismutase
· Harmonize Mind, Body, and Spirit
· Reduce the effects of mental, emotional, and physical stress
· Aid in calming the nervous system
· Help balance symptoms of Hyperthyroid and Hypothyroid symptoms
· A recent study conducted by the U.S. National Library of medicine, reported that this tonic herb might help with asthma, arthritis, chronic fatigue, anemia, infertility, depression and blood pressure. It is also thought to support the endocrine and nervous system functions as well.
Maca
Maca is naturally high in minerals including calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, sterols (6 found), up to 20 essential fatty acids, lipids, fiber, carbohydrates, protein, and amino acids. Maca is often recommended to those with adrenal fatigue as it nourishes them and reduces stress hormones.
Maca root historically has been considered a very potent aphrodisiac and a traditional fertility secret of populations living in the Andes.Maca is also been shown to help balance hormones that often contribute to symptoms of PMS and Menopause by controlling levels of estrogen.
Lastly Maca is a natural antioxidant Booster. Maca has the ability to fight major chronic diseases due to high levels of glutathione and SOD, which is superoxide dismutase.
Tocos:
incredible superfood and creamy addition to any healthy recipe.
· Bio-Available Source of Vitamin E
· May Promote Healthy Skin and Connective Tissues
· May Facilitate the removal of toxins from the body
Sun Potion Tocos is an excellent addition to smoothies, elixirs, and creamy potions.
Its rich delicious flavor is similar to Vanilla Ice Cream and this makes it a welcome ingredient in all sorts of sweet creations.
It is recommended that placing 1-2 generous tbsp. in your potion of choice or directly into the mouth.
Sun Potion Tocos is derived from the Bran of Organically Grown Brown Rice. Bran is the powerhouse of the sprouting rice and contains all the nutrients required for the rice in early development and growth.
Tocos is most famous as a super-rich source of fat-soluble natural vitamin E and is widely recognized as being exceptional for connective tissue and skin. Vitamin E is also important for healthy muscle function.
Sun Potion Tocos is a natural product and the Vitamin E comes straight from the rice, unlike most Vitamin E supplements (which are most often synthesized from Soy Beans.)
The varieties of Tocopheranols and Tocotrienols in this batch of Tocos contain naturally occurring Vitamin A (Beta Carotene), Vitamin B1 (Thiamin), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin E, Folic Acid, Biotin, Choline, and Inositol. It also contains naturally occurring Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Copper, Iodine and other Trace Minerals
Research studies suggest that Vitamin E has numerous health benefits. Vitamin E is thought to play a role in preventing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases (heart disease and stroke) due to its effects on a number of steps in the development of atherosclerosis (e.g. inhibition of LDL oxidation, inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation, inhibition of platelet adhesion, aggregation and platelet release reaction).
Recent studies suggest that vitamin E enhances immunity in the elderly and that supplementation with vitamin E lowers the risk of respiratory tract infections, particularly the common cold.
There is a great deal of research underway investigating the role of Vitamin E in protecting against outside pollution and lowering the risk of cancer.
Lucuma:
Beloved by the Incas, lucuma is a Peruvian fruit that contains beta-carotene, iron, zinc, vitamin B3, calcium, and protein. Its maple-like taste makes it a sweet addition to smoothies or in coffee or tea. Viewed as a symbol of fertility and creation, lucuma was called the “Gold of the Incas” and was used for a variety of applications. Recent research shows that lucuma may be helpful for supporting skin health, blood sugar, and even cardiovascular health.
Spirulina
The concentration of protein and vitamins in Spirulina has led many to classify it as the “most nutrient dense food on the planet.” Compared to other foods gram for gram, it lives up to this reputation and is a great source of Protein (a complete amino acid profile) as well as a great source of Iron, Calcium, and Vitamin B1 (also called Thiamin, this vitamin is necessary for the digestion of fats and proteins). Like any blue-green algae -- can be contaminated with toxic substances called microcystins. It can also absorb heavy metals from the water where it is grown. For these reasons, it is important to buy spirulina from a trusted brand.
Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds contain all 20 essential amino acids, including the 10 essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce. This is why we can say that hemp seeds are a complete protein. Hemp seeds are also rich is Omega-3 Fatty Acids as well. Omega-3’s are needed for energy production, nervous system function, skin health, brain health development, immune system support, and cardiovascular health.
Hemp seeds also contain gamma –linoleic acid (GLA) and stearidonic acid (SDA), which have been reported to improve the texture of skin, hair and nails, lowers blood pressure, and decrease inflammation in the body. Hemp seeds are a great source of Vitamin E, zinc, magnesium, iron, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds (salvia hispanica) are packed with good fat! Omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for heart and brain health. Chia seeds are high in linoleic acid, a fatty acid that helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. For such a tiny seed, chia seeds have more omega-3s than salmon.
Chia is super-high in fiber, providing nearly 11 grams per ounce. One serving can provide the recommended fiber intake for the day, according to the American Dietetic Association. Fiber is essential for your body’s ability to balance insulin levels. According to the National Institutes of Health, seeds like flax and chia can be a natural blood sugar balancer due to their high fiber content and healthy fats. Also when consumed, chia seeds create a gelatin-like substance in the stomach. This gel-forming action is due to the soluble fiber in chia seeds, and it can work as a prebiotic that supports the growth of probiotics in the gut.