Adaptogens
Adaptogens are plants (usually an herb, root, or mushroom) that helps your body adapt to physical, chemical, or biological stress. The following adaptogens are in the adaptogen hot chocolate recipe in the recipe blog. This is an excellent way to start the day.
maca- A root vegetable grown in the Andes with serious health benefits for everything from boosting libido to balancing hormones to increasing energy levels. It has a malty, almost caramel-like flavor, making it easier to enjoy. (usually up to 1 – 2 tsp per serving)
Reishi mushroom – Also known as the Queen of Mushrooms, reishi is especially good for helping our bodies relax and chill out during times of stress. It has a relatively neutral in flavor(usually up to 1 tsp per serving).
He Shou Wu( a.k.a. Fo-Ti),- This has been claimed to improve the health of hair, skin, and nails. It’s a less common adaptogen with a pretty bitter taste, so use it sparingly and in lesser quantities (usually up to 1/4 – 1/2 tsp per serving).
Turmeric-Turmeric is being used to treat inflammatory conditions because of the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin – the yellow pigment present in turmeric. The tiny root is also considered to be adaptogenic because it can help the body to maintain the appropriate level of cortisol. Best if freshly grated from root. Mixing it with black pepper enhances curcumin absorption.
Lions mane-Research has found that lion's mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression and help repair nerve damage. It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes.
Matcha - Matcha is very high in antioxidants, especially catechins. Its most powerful catechin is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Matcha contains more antioxidants than other varieties of green tea.
Ashwaganda - An herb widely used in Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) that’s become most well known for its ability to help our bodies adapt to stress and potentially lower cortisol. It has a slightly bitter taste. Best for adding to smoothies or hot chocolate in small doses ( usually up to 1/2 – 1 tsp per serving).
The adaptogens can be mixed in smoothies, hot chocolate or shakes. They may be added to energy balls. Give them a try for the health of it!
Both the recipe and the information here is adapted from recipe from Minimalist Baker.
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