July 7th, 2021
AYURVEDIC VS ADAPTOGENIC: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE & HOW THEY BENEFIT YOUR HEALTH
Ever wonder about the difference between adaptogenic and Ayurvedic ingredients? Or why you should take them? Here’s everything you need to know about adaptogens and Ayurvedic herbs and why they’re so beneficial to your health.
Chances are, you’ve seen the terms “Ayurvedic” and “adaptogenic” pop up on the packaging or product descriptions of new health and wellness products. In fact, our new Super Brew Mix contains both Ayurvedic and adaptogenic ingredients. While you may have some idea that these terms refer to things that are beneficial to your health, do you understand how? In this article, we’ll break down the difference between these two terms and let you know how and why to take them.
Despite their buzzy status, Ayurvedic and adaptogenic ingredients are hardly new. In fact, both have been used for thousands of years.
AYURVEDIC MEDICINE
Ayurveda is a natural approach to medicine that originated in India and is believed to be more than 3000 years old. It maintains that health complaints arise from imbalances and it uses natural remedies like herbs, diet modifications, and practices like yoga and meditation to bring the body and mind into better balance.
Ayurvedic treatments are administered by trained practitioners and may be used to supplement Western medicine, but it’s important to always ask your healthcare provider before beginning Ayurvedic therapies.
AYURVEDIC INGREDIENTS
Popular Ayurvedic ingredients include:
- Amla
- Ashwagandha
- Bitter Melon
- Boswellia
- Brahmi
- Cardamom
- Gotu Kola
- Hibiscus
- Licorice
- Moringa
- Neem
- Shatavari
- Simhadanti (Dandelion Root)
- Tea
- Triphala
- Turmeric
ADAPTOGENS
Many Ayurvedic ingredients are also adaptogens, which are herbs, roots, and other plants that help the body’s stress response. Different adaptogens have various therapeutic effects. Some may improve cognitive function, reduce anxiety, boost mood, or enhance endurance. All adaptogens appear beneficial in promoting a greater sense of well-being, especially when the body is experiencing stress.
Stress-related health complaints are on the rise so it’s no surprise that Ayurvedic and adaptogenic ingredients are so popular right now. It’s also a key reason why so many Your Super superfood blends contain both Ayurvedic and adaptogenic ingredients.
WAYS TO TAKE AYURVEDIC HERBS & ADAPTOGENS
Most Ayurvedic herbs and adaptogens are available in powdered or capsule form. Many can also be found in superfood powder blends. Here are some popular adaptogens and the Your Super superfood products that include them:
- Ashwagandha
- Chaga Mushrooms
- Found in: Magic Mushroom Mix, Super Brew Mix
- Dandelion Root
- Found in: Super Brew Mix
- Maca
- Found in: Energy Bomb Mix, Energy Bomb Super Bars, Forever Beautiful Mix, Power Matcha Mix, Moon Balance Mix, and Plant Protein Mix
- Reishi Mushrooms
- Found in: Magic Mushroom Mix
- Turmeric
- Found in: Golden Mellow Mix, Golden Mellow Super Bars
As with all Your Super mixes, you can add these powders to smoothies, lattes, oatmeal, salad dressings, or whatever drinks and meals you already enjoy throughout the day.
Some adaptogens, like maca, can have a stimulating effect so it’s best to take them in the morning or early afternoon. Other adaptogens, like ashwagandha, help promote relaxation and are better to take in the evening. Learn more about the best times to take each superfood mix, and for delicious recipes, check out our recipe blog.
Written by Melinda