Stress is a daily companion for most of us. However, it can lead to illness in the long run. Greater well-being and balance are protective factors. But how do you achieve them? Learn here how the adaptogenic effects of medicinal mushrooms can help you.

Adaptogens & medicinal mushrooms – effects and definition in herbal medicine

Adaptogenic medicinal plants and medicinal mushrooms are currently enjoying renewed popularity, although their benefits have been known in traditional medicine for centuries. Whether for stress, mild depression, general malaise, or immune modulation, many of these areas are currently being researched in connection with adaptogens. We'll show you the current state of research as well as traditional applications of adaptogenic plants and medicinal mushrooms.

What are adaptogenic plants and medicinal mushrooms?

Some living beings can perfectly adapt to the prevailing conditions of nature. They possess a remarkable capacity for rapid adaptation. Natural remedies that can transfer this natural effect to humans are called adaptogens. However, this ability alone is not sufficient to meet the definition of an adaptogen. Originally, they were defined as substances that increase resistance to a broad spectrum of harmful factors (stressors) of various physical, chemical, and biological origins. Adaptogens are considered metabolic regulators with the ability to adapt the body to environmental factors and prevent resulting damage. Furthermore, adaptogens are believed to be safe and non-toxic. Unlike medications, they do not act in a specific way.

Simply put, adaptogens are an ideal support for your body. However, they should never be used as a sole treatment. The active ingredients from plants and medicinal mushrooms, for example, cannot shorten your 80-hour work week and thus combat the root cause of stress. They merely provide support during such phases of life through their regulatory properties.

Do medicinal mushrooms have an adaptogenic effect?

For a long time, fungi were classified as plants. But today we know that they form their own kingdom, separate from both animals and plants. While fungi are sessile like plants, their biology is closer to that of animals. Nevertheless, or perhaps even precisely because of this, medicinal mushrooms also have an adaptogenic effect. They can therefore influence stress regulation and your overall well-being, just like some medicinal plants.

Mushrooms are not only used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, but they are also an integral part of modern medicine. For example, in the 20th century, the first antibiotic, penicillin, was extracted from mushrooms. Its discoverer, Alexander Fleming, thus ushered in a new era in the treatment of bacterial diseases. Furthermore, medicinal mushrooms, with their adaptogenic effects, should not be confused with psychoactive mushrooms, better known as magic mushrooms. These mushrooms induce altered states of consciousness and can be harmful to health. Therefore, they are, strictly speaking, the exact opposite of medicinal mushrooms, which are intended to promote health.

Popular adaptogens: List

There are a multitude of different adaptogenic medicinal plants and mushrooms. It's easy to lose track or not even know which adaptogen is ideal for individual needs. To help you keep track, we've listed the most popular adaptogens and their respective characteristics.

• Ashwagandha : This root is used in Ayurvedic treatments, among other things. Ashwagandha is one of the best-researched adaptogens. Many potential effects have already been tested in initial studies. These include effects such as lowering cortisol levels (the stress hormone), improving athletic performance, reducing anxiety and stress, and strengthening the immune system. Furthermore, this adaptogenic medicinal plant is said to have an effect on testosterone levels and sperm quality in men. Further studies are needed in all these areas to confirm its effectiveness.
• Chaga : A medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries as a traditional remedy for gastrointestinal ailments. Furthermore, its antioxidants are believed to have an adaptogenic effect, protecting body cells from damage. However, the effects of this medicinal mushroom have so far only been studied in cells or animal models. Human studies are lacking, therefore its efficacy has not yet been confirmed. At present, it can be said that chaga has no psychedelic effects and should only be used in consultation with a doctor if you are also taking blood thinners or antidiabetic medications.
• Hericium : This is a promising medicinal mushroom. It is used to support cognitive function. Substances it contains are said to increase concentration by stimulating the production of nerve growth factors (NGF) in the brain. This factor plays an important role in the differentiation and survival of neurons. Traditionally, the mushroom is also used to relieve inner restlessness.
• Cordyceps : Cordyceps is also considered an adaptogenic medicinal mushroom. It is primarily known from the Tibetan region, where it is used to treat exhaustion and fatigue. Cordyceps also appears to improve athletic performance. A substance closely resembling adenosine is likely responsible for this effect. Adenosine is a component of energy-rich compounds like ATP in the body. This medicinal mushroom is also believed to influence the immune system.
• Reishi: A medicinal mushroom that symbolizes eternal life like no other. In China and Japan, this mushroom is used to prolong life. While this has not yet been proven in any study, it is said to have positive effects on fatigue and general malaise. Typical of an adaptogen, the mushroom is believed to be able to both reduce and increase the immune response. Depending on the circumstances, either of these effects can be beneficial for the body.
• Rhodiola rosea , also known as rose root, is a root with adaptogenic properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this medicinal plant is attributed with mood-enhancing effects and used to treat sleep disorders. Indeed, some of these effects have been supported by scientific research. In stressed individuals, fatigue and burnout have been reduced by this adaptogen.
• Maca : The maca plant has long been consumed by the people of the Peruvian Andes. In our region, this adaptogen became known primarily for its effects on sex hormone levels. Several studies suggest such an influence. However, a 2007 statement from the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) pointed out that there is uncertainty in the assessment of maca due to insufficient research.
• Ginseng: Last but not least, the king of adaptogens. Ginseng is now so widespread in this country that almost everyone has heard of its positive effects on cognitive performance. It is believed that this herbaceous plant improves mental well-being, reduces fatigue, and even has a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels. The latter has already been demonstrated in at least ten different studies.

How do adaptogens work?

Although many different adaptogens exist with varying active ingredients, a large part of their effects, but especially their influence on stress, is thought to be mediated by the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis). This axis is a complex regulatory circuit in the body that determines the stress response. All three tissues involved are hormone-producing glands. The hypothalamus is part of the diencephalon (the middle brain). The pituitary gland is part of the central nervous system, and the adrenal cortex produces the stress hormone cortisol in response to signals from the other two. This ultimately affects the body's cells. In addition, the HPA axis also influences digestion, the immune system, metabolism, mood, emotions, and sexuality. Adaptogens regulate the key mediators of the stress response. To do this, they mimic stress effects and upregulate heat shock protein 70 (HSP70). This protein acts as a stress sensor and thus influences the regulatory circuit, reducing the amount of cortisol and nitric oxide in the blood. As a result, ATP production (energy supply to the cells) increases. This in turn improves mental and physical performance.

The adaptogenic effect of some medicinal mushrooms is also immunomodulatory. This means they can either stimulate or suppress the immune system, depending on the circumstances. Both can be beneficial for the body. In the case of allergies, for example, suppressing the immune system is helpful because the body is overreacting. Chronic stress significantly reduces the number of immune cells in the blood, resulting in a weakened defense against pathogens. Upregulating the immune system, however, allows bacteria and viruses to be fought off despite stress.

Like other plant-based foods, adaptogens also contain phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals that can have beneficial effects on health. Some of them contain antioxidants, which protect cells from free radicals. These substances, also known as free radical scavengers, prevent damage, for example, to DNA. This is one of many factors in cancer prevention.

What should you look for when buying adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms to ensure the best results?

Are you convinced by the positive effects of adaptogens, but still have questions? Our FAQ provides the answers to all your questions.

• How can I buy adaptogens? – You can usually buy adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms as dietary supplements. They are available in capsules, powders, and liquid extracts. The advantage of extracts, for example, is the significantly higher concentration of active ingredients. However, you can also find adaptogens as an additive in foods, such as our Golden Mushroom Milk.
• How quickly do medicinal mushrooms and plants take effect? ​​– This question can't be answered generally, as it varies for each adaptogen. Some need to be taken for several days or even weeks, while others, like Cordyceps, can produce initial effects after just one dose. After some time, the adaptogenic effect may diminish slightly, as the body becomes accustomed to the active ingredients. If you notice this, you can switch to a different medicinal plant or mushroom, or reduce the dosage.
• How much should you take to take medicinal plants and vital mushrooms? – There's no single answer that applies to everyone. As with all dietary supplements, you should adhere to the manufacturer's recommended daily dosage, otherwise an overdose can occur, which can manifest as nausea, for example.
• What are the quality indicators? – In the market for dietary supplements and alternative healing methods, not every manufacturer is interested in your health, but rather in your money. But how do you recognize a trustworthy manufacturer? If the product and website advertise the adaptogen as a cure-all, that raises suspicion. Adaptogens are always only a support, never a sole therapy. Look for products manufactured in Germany or Europe. Unscrupulous manufacturers have their products made cheaply in Asia. The presence of fillers, large amounts of sugar, and other undesirable additives is another sign of poor quality. Don't hesitate to ask for certificates of analysis.
• Can different medicinal mushrooms and adaptogens be combined? – In principle, combining different adaptogens is possible. We recommend ready-made blends of adaptogens, such as those found in our smaints products , because the medicinal mushrooms in these blends are precisely balanced. However, the situation may be different when taking medications simultaneously. Interactions can occur in some cases. With chaga, this has been observed in combination with blood thinners and antidiabetic medications. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
• Are adaptogens suitable for vegans and vegetarians? – Yes, these are generally plant-based products. However, pay attention to the processing and other ingredients in the product. Occasionally, lactose may be added as a cheaper filler. All smaints products are designed for a vegan diet.

The adaptogenic effect of medicinal mushrooms: Conclusion

Medicinal plants and mushrooms have been used and proven effective in many parts of the world for a long time. In this country, their benefits are becoming increasingly well-known and popular. Some of them have an adaptogenic effect on the body. This means they promote your ability to adapt and are a great boost to your well-being. Examples of adaptogens include ashwagandha, cordyceps, hericium, chaga, reishi, rhodiola, ginseng, and rose root.

Use supportive medicinal plants and vital mushrooms! There are many areas of application; the most promising are:

• Stress reduction and lowering of cortisol (stress hormone)
• Immunomodulation
• Improving mental performance
• Improved concentration
• more physical power
• Influence on sexuality
• generally improved well-being

The adaptogenic effects of medicinal mushrooms and plants are no longer solely the domain of naturopathy. Numerous scientific studies now confirm individual effects and explain the efficacy of medicinal mushrooms. For example, a regulatory effect on the HPA axis has been demonstrated. This is a feedback loop that primarily governs the body's stress response. Furthermore, other effects on the immune system and individual components such as antioxidants are also known.

Adaptogens are available in various forms. For optimal effects from medicinal mushrooms, we recommend liquid extracts rather than capsules, as the active ingredient concentration is higher in liquids. When purchasing, pay attention to quality. This ensures optimal benefits without the health risks posed by unwanted additives. Other criteria, such as suitability for a vegan diet or the combination of adaptogens, can also influence your decision.

Why not visit our smaints shop and be inspired by our high-quality "small saints"? – Our motto: Power through nature!

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