Panax Ginseng
Panax has been shown to support healthy metabolic function when the body is under stress by boosting fat burning and sparing carbohydrate metabolism. Research suggests that ginseng saponin may help to enhance HPA axis sensitivity and to attenuate stress-induced increases in plasma cortisol levels.
Adaptogens regulate the adrenal response. They aim to restore health, vitality and immunity. They are thought to be safe over the long term and balance the body whether in a state of overdrive or fatigue.
Studies show that ashwagandha can also reduce cortisol levels. One study found that those who consumed the ashwagandha extract saw reduced cortisol levels and a 44% improvement in mental health compared to the placebo group. By managing cortisol levels, ashwagandha may help alleviate adrenal fatigue.
If your primary concern is anxiety, getting a full night's sleep, or just overall relaxing, ashwagandha is the better choice. If physical stamina and higher energy levels are what you're looking for, choose rhodiola. Of course, you can always combine ashwagandha and rhodiola for the max amount of benefits.
Panax Ginseng
Ginseng is one well-known adaptogen, and Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) is considered by many to be the most potent.
Rhodiola is an adaptogen that can balance the secretion of cortisol during difficult situations. Rhodiola can support energy levels and optimize concentration in those with adrenal fatigue. Of the 20 different types of Rhodiola plants, only Rhodiola rosea exhibits health benefits and can be classed as an adaptogen.
GABA does not affect the adrenal glands directly, but it does help alleviate some of the anxiety and related symptoms associated with Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome (AFS), particularly in advanced stages when the flight or fight response is activated.
The suggested treatments for healthy adrenal function are a diet low in sugar, caffeine, and junk food, and “targeted nutritional supplementation” that includes vitamins and minerals: Vitamins B5, B6, and B12. Vitamin C. Magnesium.
Cordyceps is an adaptogen that can support the adrenal glands and is used in traditional Chinese medicine to improve kidney health. Adaptogens are non-toxic plants that can help your body adapt to the stressors it faces every day. Therefore, cordyceps and adrenal fatigue can help balance each other out.
This is due to the fact that metabolic processes stimulated by thyroid hormone also increase adrenal demands. Specific interventions which can facilitate starting thyroid restoration include: Addition of magnesium glycinate 600-1000 mg orally or transdermally.
Adrenal fatigue is thought to occur when the adrenals have been overworked to a degree that they can no longer secrete levels of cortisol that are adequate for optimal function. Potential stressors include environmental and dietary influences, as well as anxiety and emotional stresses.
Rhodiola is an herb grown in the cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. The roots are known as adaptogens, which means they help your body adapt to stress when they're consumed. Rhodiola also relieves anxiety, suppresses cortisol and provides overall resistance to general stressors.
rosea was found to exert a notable anti-fatigue effect that increased mental performance, particularly the ability to concentrate, and decreased cortisol response to awakening stress in burnout patients.
Phosphatidylserine. Phosphatidylserine is a fatty substance that has protective effects on the brain and nervous system. It decreases cortisol hormone levels, reduces stress, improves mental and physical performance, and helps prevent cognitive decline and dementia.
Ashwagandha can increase immune response, so it's recommended that individuals with autoimmune diseases (such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, or other conditions) avoid taking ashwagandha [1].
Recovery from adrenal fatigue can take anywhere from 3 months to 3 years. Each individual has a unique set of symptoms and an individual response to treatment. The recovery process depends upon the stage and severity of the adrenal exhaustion.
Stage 3: High Adrenal Fatigue
In this crash stage, the adrenals fail to meet the needs and can no longer produce cortisol. Therefore, cortisol level is low all day and all night. Chronic fatigue and inability to perform routine daily activities or work-related duties will occur.
Make Sure You Are Getting Enough Sleep
Sleep is the most important factor when it comes to your adrenal health. Ensuring you are getting between 7 and 9 hours sleep every night allows your adrenal glands time to rest and rejuvenate. It is also important to get to sleep well before midnight, preferably by 10pm or 11pm.