Adaptogens
What Are They? Adaptogens are natural substances found only in a few rare plants and herbs, which provide special nutrients that help the body achieve optimal mental, physical and work performance. They have three distinguishing qualities: 1) They are completely non-toxic and have no harmful effects no matter the dosage or how long they are used, 2) They work in the body to increase its mental and physical performance as well as provide resistance to stressful insults at the cellular level, 3) Their effect is to balance and normalize the body’s system leading to overall health and balance. Dr. Israel Brekhman is considered the “Father of Adaptogens”. Dr. Brekhman began his research in 1956 on adaptogens in Russia, where he discovered the plants and herbs that are now called adaptogens. He, along with a large scientific group, studied 233 plants, their admixtures and biological actions. He eventually developed an elaborate computer program used to classify the plants and herbs as to their effects and benefits. Dr. Brekhman and his group are the inventors and holders of 21 international patents. He has published numerous articles and books on this subject. His formulation of adaptogens were important and of immense help to the Russian space program and world-class Russian athletes. Even today, the adaptogens are produced from plants and herbs which come from specific areas within Russia. How Do They Work? The mechanism as to how adaptogens vitalize the body to achieve high mental and physical performance has been studied extensively in the former Soviet Union, Japan, Germany, Sweden and the United States. Under stress or intense physical activity the adrenal glands produce hormones into the body to counteract the stress. When adaptogens are present, the adrenal gland hormone output is efficient and conserved in response to physical and environmental stress. The adaptogens allow one to obtain extra stamina and energy. During physical activity glucose is released into the blood stream. The adaptogens help this glucose cross the barriers and enter the tissues more easily. Also, the elevated glucose levels within the body have been observed to return to normal more quickly with adaptogens present. After taking adaptogens, there is more energy available to carry out difficult tasks, to perform better without fatigue and therefore achieve high mental and physical performance The combination of herbs making up this adaptogen formula has been found to be significantly more effective than any single herb taken alone. Some of the effects reported by people using the adaptogens are; better sleep, more energy, better focus and concentration, less compulsive eating, sick less often, less tension and anxiety, better job performance, less jet lag, better mood, better overall attitude, better temper control. The adaptogens are not vitamins. They are not medications that will cure any particular illness or condition. It assists the body in using its own resources to achieve optimum levels of physical, mental and emotional health. How To Take Them? Being we all differ in age, weight, genetic makeup, state of health and daily stress, it is best to find the amount and dosage that works for you. Most people do best with the recommended suggested serving. More is not necessarily better, but it is entirely safe. Most people take a serving in the morning, and some take it in the afternoon. You can also split the serving and take half in the morning and half in the afternoon. Some also use it prior to bedtime. In times of increased stress some people take an extra serving. Adjust and experiment. Most importantly, listen to your body. The concentrated formula of adaptogens comes with a dropper on its screw-on cap. Normal dosage with the eye dropper is 10 to 30 drops. 2-6 years 5 drops; 7-10 years 5-10 drops, 11-14 years 10-15 drops and the elderly should start with 10 drops per serving. Remember, everyone is different. So adjust the dosage according to your own needs. The concentrate can be placed on or under the tongue then swallowed. It can also be placed in a hot or cold beverage. This will not undermine the potency of the adaptogen concentrate. For current specials and promotions in Tampa and Brandon FL click here.
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