Adapt to change with adaptogenic plants

Just as our earth prepares itself for the changes and cycles of the seasons, we too must take the time to adapt. This will require effort, but also a great deal of confidence in ourselves and in the natural elements that surround us.

With changing temperatures and shorter days in autumn, we need to listen to our bodies, which require a certain amount of adaptation time at this time of year. Even if we're in performance mode most of the time, it would be a good idea to draw inspiration from our beautiful earth and, quietly, take some time to tone up our bodies in preparation for the cold winter season....and to do so gently and with respect for our own internal cycle.

Obviously, adapting our lifestyle habits to the changes, by going to bed earlier in the evening to allow our bodies to relax, regenerate and tone up on their own, is essential. The body already knows what to do to regain its balance, but we need to give it the chance and the time, as well as a little help from Mother Nature! So, when we're already exhausted by overwork, daily stress and unhealthy habits, our bodies need extra support to help them regain their vitality and defensive forces.

So-called adaptogens  are a natural response to stress, repelling it and transforming it into beneficial energy; like an inner suit of armor, they protect us by strengthening our adrenal glands and immune system. Unlike energy drinks and coffee, which offer only short-lived responses, taking us through violent peaks and troughs, this tonic has subtle but very real, long-term effects. They fortify our immune system, making it more resistant to the stresses and infections so common in winter.

Here are a few of the best-known:

Ashwagandha (withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng, acts as an excellent tonic for the immune, nervous and adrenal systems, and is also said to have anti-inflammatory and aphrodisiac properties. In addition to boosting concentration and memory, this plant calms anxiety, helps us cope with depression and high stress levels, and helps restore deep, recuperative sleep without the downside of sedatives. It also regulates the thyroid gland, which, as we know, is essential to the balance of the whole body.

Eleutherococcus (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as Siberian ginseng, tones the body, stimulates the immune system, combats fatigue and stress, and enhances memory and general well-being. It is highly beneficial for the nervous system and adrenals, supporting and increasing resistance to stress through its immunostimulant action and improved lymphocyte production.

Ginseng (Panax ginseng). Chinese ginseng is a great tonic on many levels, stimulating the immune system and toning the organism in tired or weakened people, helping during periods of convalescence to regain vitality and promote general well-being. It also effectively enhances physical performance and promotes intellectual concentration and memory.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) Astragalus membranaceus is a tonic plant that is particularly useful for preventing respiratory infections, boosting the immune system and supporting people weakened by illness or surgery.

Royal jelly is not a plant, but a product of the beehive, the royal food of our friends the bees, it can prove to be a vitality tonic supporting the nervous and immune systems comparable to plants. adaptogens. With its rich composition of B vitamins, amino acids, trace elements and proteins, it provides overall energy, and its replenishing effects are rapid and long-lasting. It is recommended in times of overwork, exhaustion, convalescence and stress. In small doses, it boosts morale, provides a feeling of relaxation, reduces nervous tension and, in the long term, boosts joie de vivre and combats chronic fatigue in the over-40s by stimulating the functions of defective or exhausted glands.

Please note that adaptogens are not suitable for pregnant or breast-feeding women or young children. The advice of your naturopath or healthcare professional is recommended before starting any treatment. In addition to following the dosage recommended by your therapist or distributor, it is strongly suggested that you take a therapeutic break of 1 to 2 weeks every 6 to 12 weeks.

At all times, listening to your body and respecting its limits will facilitate transitions between the different cycles of life and help you find and keep your physical and psychological balance. This winter, thanks to plants adaptogensyou'll be better equipped to face the lack of light, biting cold and multiplying microbes, because your immune system and vital force will be strengthened and in better energetic balance.

Wishing you excellent vitality!

Josée Thériault N.D.