Do you constantly feel exhausted, especially in the morning? Do you struggle to manage stress or experience frequent cravings for sugar or salt? These symptoms could be related to adrenal fatigue, an imbalance caused by prolonged stress. Although not medically recognized, this phenomenon can disrupt your energy levels and overall well-being.
Here are 3 plants that can support your adrenal glands and help you naturally regain your energy:
- Rhodiola Rosea : Regulates cortisol and reduces stress-related fatigue.
- Ashwagandha : Helps stabilize the stress hormone and improves sleep.
- Éleuthérocoque : Stimulates energy and endurance.
Quick Comparison of Dosages and Uses
| Plant | Daily dosage | Main Effects | Main Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhodiola Rosea | 200 to 600 mg | Reduces fatigue, regulates stress | Avoid with certain medications |
| Horse Smell | 300 to 600 mg | Stabilizes cortisol, improves sleep | Not recommended in cases of autoimmune diseases. |
| Siberian ginseng | 400 to 800 mg | Increases energy and endurance | To be avoided in case of heart disease |
Start with low doses and adjust according to your needs. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting a regimen. These herbs can be a complement to a balanced diet and quality sleep.
Rhodiola & the 4 Best Plants for the Adrenal Glands
1. Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea, often referred to as 'golden root' or 'arctic root', is a plant known for its role in supporting the adrenal glands. It helps regulate cortisol by influencing the stress response.
Research has shown that it can be effective in reducing stress-related fatigue. For example, a study conducted on night workers revealed that a daily dose of 170 mg of SHR-5 extract, taken for two weeks, significantly decreased fatigue while improving mental capabilities. Here are the dosage recommendations:
| Recommended dosage | Duration of use | Standardization |
|---|---|---|
| 200 to 600 mg/day | Up to 12 weeks | 3.07% rosavine and 1.95% salidroside |
Precautions: Although Rhodiola is generally well tolerated, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you are taking antidepressants, treatments for hypertension, diabetes, or in case of hypoglycemia. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
2. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a plant known for helping to regulate cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone." A 60-day study revealed that an Ashwagandha course could reduce morning cortisol by 23% and DHEA-S by 8.2%, compared to a 0.5% increase in the placebo group[1].
Recommended dosage
To get the most out of Ashwagandha, adhere to the following dosages:
| Daily dosage | Frequency | Recommended duration |
|---|---|---|
| 300 mg | Twice a day | 1 to 3 months |
| 450 mg to 600 mg | once a day | Minimum 1 month |
These dosages allow for maximizing benefits while minimizing the risks of dependency.
Precautions for use
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: not recommended for use.
- Hormone-dependent cancers (prostate): to be avoided.
- Drug Interactions: caution with anticoagulants and immunosuppressants.
- Autoimmune diseases: not recommended.
Remember to take regular breaks to prevent a loss of efficiency related to receptor desensitization. If you notice a decrease in effects, this could be a sign of tolerance.
Before starting any treatment, make sure to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are under medical treatment or suffer from a chronic condition.
3. Eleuthero
Eleutherococcus, also known as Siberian ginseng, is a plant that has been used for centuries for its stimulating properties. Unlike Ashwagandha, it works by increasing energy.
Mode of action
This plant primarily acts on three key aspects:
| Property | Effect on the body |
|---|---|
| Energy | Promotes the use of fats as an energy source |
| Endurance | Supports cardiovascular function |
| Hormones | Helps regulate estrogen levels |
Recommended dosage
| Form | Daily dose | Maximum duration |
|---|---|---|
| Standardized extract (>1% eleutherosides) | 400 to 800 mg | Up to 3 months |
Important Points of Vigilance
Contraindications :
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Hormone-sensitive cancers
- Unstable heart diseases
To be monitored :
- Diabetes : can lower blood sugar
- Anticoagulant treatments: risk of interactions
- Immunosuppressive drugs: possible stimulation of the immune system
"Adaptogens help the body better manage physical and mental stress. Their regular use improves endurance." - Vera Martins, Author at the Marion Gluck Clinic
Possible side effects
- Mild digestive disorders
- Headaches
- Cardiac palpitations
To maximize the effects, start with a low dose and gradually adjust according to your tolerance. If you have any doubts or an existing medical condition, consult a healthcare professional before starting. Proceed to the following section to learn more about safety procedures and usage precautions.
Next steps and security
After presenting the dosages and precautions for each plant, here are some tips for optimal use.
Recommended dosages
| Plant | Daily dosage (per dose) | Time of administration |
|---|---|---|
| Rhodiola Rosea | 200 to 600 mg (divided between morning and midday) | Morning and noon |
| Horse Smell | 500 to 2,000 mg (in one or more doses) | Morning and/or evening |
| Siberian ginseng | 100 to 600 mg (twice a day, i.e. 200 to 1,200 mg in total) | Preferably before 3 p.m. |
These doses can be adjusted according to your needs, ideally under medical supervision.
Precautions to take
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional in the following cases:
- You take medications.
- You have specific health concerns.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You are preparing for a surgical procedure.
Furthermore, ensure that your dietary supplements are tested and certified by independent laboratories to guarantee their quality.
Monitoring and adjustments
For safe and effective use:
- Start with small doses, observe your reactions and gradually adjust according to your tolerance.
- Follow the prescribed schedule for each plant.
Note: Adaptogens act on cortisol levels, and their effectiveness may vary depending on your adrenal fatigue status. Regular medical follow-up is recommended to tailor the treatment to your specific needs.
