Times are stressful right now. We are living in the midst of a global pandemic, social unrest, mass unemployment, widespread burnout and mental health decline. It’s no wonder that many of us have been feeling extra-stressed lately.
Unfortunately, stress can have a number of negative consequences for our health - especially when that stress is prolonged or chronic.
Chronic stress can lead to adverse and serious health problems, from weakening the immune system, elevating blood pressure and prompting depression, fertility problems, missed periods, elevated blood sugar and subsequently, an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. [1]
Finding ways to effectively cope with stress is essential for our well-being. The more resistant we can be to its negative effects, the better off we’ll be.
During these stressful times, we’re constantly sipping on adaptogenic tea to support our health. Why?
Let’s talk about adaptogens - what they are, some different types of adaptogens, and why we use them in our teas.
What Are Adaptogens?
With the growing cultural emphasis on health and wellness, people are becoming increasingly aware of herbal remedies and their potential benefits. As a result, more people are now seeking out and consuming adaptogens to support their health.
Adaptogens are substances that are believed to help the body resist the negative effects of stress hormones and maintain a more stable physical state. [2] These substances have earned the name “adaptogen” because they are supposedly able to adapt to what the body needs and serve a number of functions [3].
Though there is not yet enough human research to make definite claims about the effects of adaptogens, beliefs about their medical powers have been upheld in traditional medicine since ancient times.
What Are Some Examples of Adaptogens?
The most well-known and researched adaptogen is ginseng. This plant is thought to possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help in the treatment and prevention of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and more [4]. Because ginseng contains caffeine, it is not included as an ingredient in our caffeine-free tea offerings.
Ginger is a salivating superfood - literally. This adaptogenic herb aids in digestion by triggering salivation [5]. Ginger has also been shown to have brain-boosting benefits, shown to improve cognitive function and attention span [6]. Ginger is a key ingredient in our Lion-Maitake Clarity, Lion’s Spice, Chaga Chai and Reishi-Chaga Boost adaptogenic tea blends.
Elderberry is high in antioxidants and Vitamin C. Studies show it could reduce fevers and support the immune system [7]. Our Reishi Chaga Boost is made with this adaptogenic fruit.
Medicinal mushrooms are also highly regarded as adaptogens, including reishi, lion’s mane, chaga and maitake [8]. These fungi offer a range of potential health benefits.
Reishi mushroom is believed to support immunity, sleep, and circulation in addition to stress reduction [9]. Research suggests that lion’s mane mushroom positively impacts cognitive function, immune function, mental clarity and focus, and physical and mental relaxation [10]. The chaga mushroom is an antioxidant that is thought to provide immune support, natural energy, digestive benefits, and anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties [11]. Maitake mushroom offers the potential health benefits of immune support, energy boost, digestion aid, and anti-inflammatory properties [12].
There are a few other mushrooms with adaptogenic properties as well, such as cordyceps, shiitake and turkey tail.
Adaptogenic Tea: A Satisfying Way to De-Stress
If you’re looking for a way to ward off the negative effects of stress, try drinking adaptogenic tea. Consuming tea infused with adaptogens is a popular and enjoyable way to access the reputed benefits of these traditional medicines.
At Tamim Teas, we produce these adaptogenic teas made with all-natural and organic medicinal mushrooms and herbs. Our mission is to offer tea that not only provides delicious taste, but also potential health benefits. Each of the herbs, spices and fungi that we use in our tea blends are carefully selected to satisfy both of these aims.
Next time you’re feeling stressed, do yourself a favor and sip some soothing and stress-relieving Tamim Teas!
