Are you looking for delicious adaptogenic tea blends that are easy to make and can help when you are struggling with mental or physical stress, insomnia, and even fatigue?
Let me share some of my favorite adaptogenic herbs along with easy recipes so you can support your body and mind when you need them most.
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What Is An Adaptogen?
An adaptogenic herb is a traditional medicine used to support your body’s ability to deal with physical or emotional stress.
According to scientific research, adaptogens create resistance to stress and decrease sensitivity to stressors, which results in both stress protection and relief.
Adaptogens can help you to feel less exhausted (physically and mentally!) as well as promote balance in many of the body systems such as the immune system and adrenal glands.
One of the most amazing things about these special herbs is that they can work differently for each individual.
Adaptogens can assist your body’s stress response, boost immunity, and aid in cognitive function and mental performance.
Because of the numerous benefits, a growing number of health-conscious consumers are choosing these remedies from mother nature to increase overall health and wellness.
Common Adaptogens And Possible Health Benefits
Here are some of the most commonly used adaptogens along with their health benefits and side effects so you can make an informed choice for your specific needs.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola (or Rhodiola Rosea) is a root that grows in cold, mountainous climates.
It’s also known as golden root or arctic root.
This important plant contains more than 140 active ingredients!
The most potent are rosavin and salidroside. Both of these ingredients are known to help alleviate anxiety and
depression.
This makes Rhodiola a useful herbal supplement for fighting physical fatigue, stress-induced chronic fatigue, and depression.
Studies show that it is particularly useful in the case of mental fatigue and declined attention.
Possible Side Effects Rhodiola
One side effect of Rhodiola is that it can sometimes cause sleep difficulties or insomnia, so if you already struggle with this you might want to consider another adaptogenic herb.
I would also add that some people with adrenal fatigue do not do well when taking Rhodiola.
Even though it is considered an adaptogen, it can be too stimulating for some and actually make those who are already exhausted and running on empty feel better for a short time and then crash or just feel even more exhausted in the long run.
Eleuthero
Another powerful adaptogen on our list is Eleuthero.
It’s an Asian herb that is also commonly referred to as Siberian ginseng.
Eleuthero has been utilized as one of many popular traditional medicines for thousands of years.
It has been used for its ability to prevent heart disease, increase athletic performance and help with recovery from stress-related burnout and chronic fatigue.
This adaptogenic herb can also help to ease anxiety and depression.
Possible Side Effects Of Eleuthero
Even though Eleuthero can be used safely by most people, those with high blood pressure may need to avoid the use of this particular herb.
But, as always, be sure to check with your health care practitioner 😉
Schisandra
If you’re experiencing physical fatigue, studies show this adaptogen is most useful!
Originating in China and Korea, it’s also sometimes called the five-flavor berry.
That’s because it’s known for being sweet, tart, salty, spicy, and bitter!
In the Schisandra berry, there are two compounds: schisandrin and gomesin.
Scientists have studied schisandrin for its ability to protect the nervous system against stress, while gomesin offers anti-inflammatory power.
These compounds can also have a positive effect on the liver.
Possible Side Effects Of Shisandra
Some people develop rashes or gastrointestinal upset with this herbal supplement, so be sure to keep an eye on your body’s response and discontinue if you experience these symptoms.
Ashwagandha
A member of the nightshade family, Ashwagandha is sometimes referred to as the chill-out adaptogen.
It also goes by its scientific name, Withania Somnifera, and originated in India.
The Ashwagandha root can be used for herbal supplements, made into tinctures, and of course, added to other herbs to make adaptogen teas!
This favorite adaptogen can have a… shall we say earthy aroma and flavor but is very helpful when you need to reduce mental stress and anxiety.
Studies also show that it can also help those with insomnia.
Ashwagandha is also known to help improve and balance the body’s stress hormones, the immune system, and has antioxidant properties that help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
This is one of the more calming adaptogens, so if your stress levels are high (feel like you’re in fight or flight mode) this might be worth a try!
Possible Side Effects Of Ashwaganda
Taking large amounts of ashwagandha can lead to digestive upset, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
I have never known someone to have that reaction, but it is possible so be sure to take the suggested dose and not more.
And as aways-start low and go slow!
Also, if you are sensitive to nightshades it’s a good idea to be cautious with this herb.
Easy Adaptogenic Tea Recipes
Looking to support your body’s ability to find balance, improve immune response, increase energy, and lessen the effects of stress?
The best way (in my opinion) is to pick your favorite adaptogen and brew a relaxing and uplifting organic herbal tea!
Here are my 3 top adaptogenic herbal tea blends.
I hope you like them too 🙂
Moon Milk
Ingredients:
1 cup whole milk or milk of choice
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (more or less is fine depending on your taste)
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
¼ teaspoon ground ashwagandha (or another adaptogen, like Shatavari or Astragalus)
2 pinches of ground cardamom
1 Pinch of ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
- Bring milk to a simmer over medium heat
- Add all ingredients except for honey
- Change heat to low
- Stir until all clumps are dissolved
- Pour into your favorite mug and add the honey
- Enjoy!
Lovely Schisandra Pink Tea
Ingredients:
1 Tbsp Dried Hibiscus Petals
1 Tbsp Dried Rose Petals
1/2 Tsp Dried Schisandra Berries
Instructions:
- Bring water to a simmer on the stove or to a boil in a tea kettle
- Combine ingredients, pour hot water over the tea mixture and let steep for 5-10 minutes
- Strain the berries and petals and pour into your favorite mug
- Add honey to taste!
This is great as an iced tea as well!
Just let the tea cool and put it in your favorite storage container with ice.
You could even make up a big batch and store it in the fridge.
Adrenal Thrive Tea
Ingredients:
¼ cup Eleuthero root
¼ cup Schisandra berries
¼ cup Holy Basil
2 tbsp Ashwagandha
2 tsp Lemon Balm
Honey (to taste)
This loose-leaf tea can be a make-ahead recipe. There are two options you can choose from. Combine all of the herbs and make it one serving at a time or make all of it at once and store it in the fridge. It will keep for about two days in the fridge.
Instructions:
single serving
- Use approximately 4 ½ tsp of the herb mixture and steep in boiling water for 30 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy!
multiple servings
- Combine all of the herb mixtures with 12 cups of boiling water
- Let steep 30 minutes
- Strain herbs from liquid
- Refrigerate and enjoy!
Last Thoughts About Adaptogenic Tea
If you’re considering trying an adaptogenic tea for stress relief, the bottom line is that a variety of cultures have used these types of adaptogens as a lifestyle medicine for hundreds of years and they can be a great tool in your health journey too.
Including these helpful herbs in your everyday routine may be just the thing to achieve the balance you’ve been looking for.
It is important to note though, that when it comes to natural remedies, it’s best to take a long-term approach. Adaptogenic teas don’t work like prescription meds, so you may notice a more subtle action over time instead of a quick response.
Also, it’s best to rotate and rest from herbs occasionally, so be mindful of finding a few different ones that work for you!
Looking for other health-supporting teas & infusion recipes? Check these out!
- Banana Tea For Peaceful Sleep
- Lilac Tea
- Stinging Nettle Infusion
- Lemon Honey & Ginger Tea
- Pine Needle Tea
- Hibiscus Tea
