Guide to Adaptogenic Herbs for Stamina, Energy, & Endurance

Adaptogens are all the rage right now, showing up in products from energy boosting coffee drinks to anti-inflammatory beauty creams. But did you know that these herbal plants and mushrooms were originally grouped together to enhance performance, reduce immune system stress, and increase stamina? Here's more on adaptogenic herbs for energy, endurance, and stamina.

INITIAL STUDIES ON HERBS THAT REDUCE STRESS

In 1946-47, Russian scientist Dr. Nikolai Lazarev was researching plant compounds that could help reduce the negative impacts of acute and chronic stress. He was doing this research for the nation’s cosmonauts, workforce and olympians.

“In 1968, Israel I. Brekham, Ph.D. and Dr. I. V. Dardymov formally gave adaptogens a functional definition, as follows:

Functional Definition of Adaptogens
According to adaptogen expert David Winston in his book Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief, he writes:

Functional Definition of Adaptogens
According to adaptogen expert David Winston in his book Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief, he writes:

• An adaptogen is non-toxic to the recipient in normal therapeutic doses.
• An adaptogen produces a non-specific state of resistance to stress…”
• An adaptogen has a normalizing (amphoteric) influence on physiology, irrespective of the direction of change from physiological norms caused by stressors.”

Winston goes on to explain that the definition expanded in the late 90s when doctors Panossian, Wikman, and Wagner were able to show that adaptogens “work by re-regulating two master control systems in the body, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympatho-adrenal system (SAS).” This definition also expanded the list of what is accepted as adaptogenic. The list now includes herbs that are “possible” and “probable” adaptogens.

INSIGHT ABOUT HERBS FOR ENDURANCE AND STAMINA

The adaptogenic herbs that Panossian, Wikman, and Wagner explored regulate many things in the human body, including:

• Hormone Response
• Cardiovascular operation
• Immune and digestive functions
• Nervous system responses

All of these systems impact energy levels, performance, and stamina. The American College of Healthcare Sciences says:

“Adaptogenic herbs have been shown to support optimal energy and stamina, improve the ability to carry out demanding activities, and enhance the ability to tolerate stress and recover from it.”

Exploring Natural Herbs for Stamina and Energy
Adaptogens continue to be studied, and the more physical and mental benefits found through quality research, the more popular they become.

If you plan to use adaptogens, remember that studies show they are most effective when used in proper combination with other adaptogens and herbs. Such a proper combination can be formulated by an experienced clinical herbalist who can help you avoid negative side effects.

It’s important to assess your own personal constitution, cognitive functions, and overall health so you can know what will work best for you. We recommend doing your homework so you can better understand how to use adaptogens and herbal supplements to accomplish your intended purpose.