Adaptogen Benefits and Chemistry
ELEUTHEROCOCCUS SENTICOSUS (Siberian Ginseng)
Active constituents isolated include eleutherosides, (isofraxiden, sesamin syringin) , as well as glucose, sucrose, betulinic acid, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and beta-sitosterol.
Eleutherococcus senticosus (ES) is not actually a ginseng, though it has the nickname of “Siberian Ginseng”. Considered to be the “King of Adaptogens” because it exhibits a wide range of protective and beneficial actions in the body. Numerous clinical studies have shown ES has a marked effect on the cells’ ability to absorb glucose. ES also has been shown to be a powerful immune-modulator, significantly strengthening the immune system when used on a daily basis. ES exhibits antioxidant properties more than twice those of vitamin E.
RHODIOLA ROSEA (Rose root, Arctic Root, Golden Root)
Active constituents isolated include salidroside, rosavin, rosarin, and rosin (collectively known as the rosavins). Rhodiola also contain tyrosol and proanthocyanidins.
Rhodiola has been shown in clinical studies to increase the blood supply to the muscles and brain, and also to increase protein synthesis. Cardio-protective, Rhodiola improves heart rate recovery immediately after intense exercise. Increases the body’s ability to access lipids (fats) as an energy source. Supports the immune system and shows important anti-tumor and anti-cancer benefits. Demonstrates significant antioxidant action.
SCHIZANDRA CHINENSIS (Chinese Magnolia Vine)
Active constituent isolated is schisandrin.
Schizandra has beneficial effects on digestion and protects against gastric ulcers. It is one of the most important herbs for liver protection, providing defense against viral and chemical injury and promoting healthy liver function. It also is supportive of lung and kidney function. Shown to assist in the utilization of oxygen within the cell, Schizandra increases endurance, coordination, and has anti-inflammatory action.
ECHINOPANAX ELATUS (Asian Devil’s Club)
Active constituent isolated is araloside.
Primarily beneficial in regulating blood sugar, has potent anti-diabetic benefits. Protects cardiac function. Supports and potentiates the actions of the other herbs as a supportive adaptogen.
ARALIA MANDSCHURICA (Manchurian Thorn Tree)
Active constituent isolated is araloside.
Aralia has been used for centuries to improve cellular sensitivity to insulin, thereby increasing glucose uptake in muscle cells. Aralia has been shown in clinical studies to improve the body’s resistance to gastric ulcers caused by stress.
RHAPONTICUM CARTHAMOIDES (Maral Root)
Active constituents isolated are ecdysterones, particularly 20-Hydroxyecdysone, and flavonoids.
Rhaponticum carthamoides is an extremely valuable and rare adaptogen. Rhaponticum promotes the development of lean muscle mass in response to physical training. Rhaponticum significantly increases the working capacity of fatigued skeletal muscles, and contributes to a more sparing use of carbohydrates and an enhanced synthesis of glycogen and high-energy phosphorus compounds. Studies show that it is useful in supporting bone health. This extract has been shown to increase endurance, reflexes and concentration.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF ADAPTOGENS
Adaptogens provide many benefits for the body by acting as a stabilizer for the adrenal, hypothalamic, and pituitary glands which are all involved in stress responses that inherently aid with immune support. This all occurs at a molecular level which has proven to be highly effective. A weak immune system is usually the result of experiencing long periods of external stressors. By using adaptogens to mitigate the typical response to stress that the body gives, the typical biorhythmic state of the immune system stays in balance so that it can provide maximum protection against any outside irritants.
