9 Adaptogens That Can Replace Coffee

Adaptogens possess fantastic health benefits. But did you know that adaptogens can be a healthy alternative to coffee? Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and boosts your energy. This is something we actually find addicting. However, drinking too many cups of coffee can make you feel nervous and irritable. 

It doesn’t mean that caffeine is a bad component. It can enhance your metabolism and help boost your memory. However, if you’re sensitive to caffeine but need more energy, then you should keep reading this article to find out how adaptogens can help you.

Adaptogens are considered totally safe but they are not appropriate for everyone. They are aimed to regulate organs or systems in the body. If organs or systems are hyperactive or hypoactive, the adaptogen will help bring them back to normal.

Adaptogens work through two control systems in the body: the HPA-axis, which is responsible for the regulation of the endocrine, nervous, immune, digestive, cardiovascular, reproductive systems, and blood sugar levels. The second control system is the sympathoadrenal system, which is our fight or flight mechanism. 

Scientists have found that adaptogens can perform other functions as well. They prevent the increase in cortisol levels as well as cortisol-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Adaptogen can also fight sleep problems, obesity, chronic fatigue, and even fibromyalgia. Let’s review nine proven adaptogens that can really help.

1. Holy Basil

This adaptogen helps to reduce blood sugar levels. Therefore, if you have insulin resistance, holy basil can be a good option for you. The adaptogen also improves digestion and acts as a nootropic, which means it can enhance memory and concentration. Additionally, it can be helpful in lowering anxiety and depression. You can drink a holy basil tea or take it as a supplement.

2. Mucuna Pruriens

Mucuna Pruriens powder contains one amino acid that transforms into dopamine in your brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps the brain function well. You probably know that this is a happy hormone, so higher levels of dopamine can also improve your mood and energy levels as well as regulate the nervous system.

3. Maca

Maca is a popular herb used to boost endurance and stamina. Many athletes often use it to boost their energy levels naturally. Maca can also enhance libido and mood. It has a caramel tasty flavor. Just add one teaspoon of maca powder into your tea, juice, or a smoothie to get energy and endurance.

4. Siberian ginseng

Siberian ginseng is good for young people trying to take care of themselves. Since it’s not stimulating for most people, it can be helpful for younger people who need support during stressful situations. The herb is available as an extract powder, fluid extract, and tincture.

5. Schisandra Berry

Coffee makes some people feel wired, alert. If you are one of those people, you can try Schisandra berry. It can make you feel calm, alert, and focused. Plus, it has a powerful anti-inflammatory property and it can protect the liver from environmental, chemical, and viral toxins. 

It also possesses an anti-asthmatic effect and helps with UTI in older women. You can consume it as tea or take it as a tincture or capsule. 

6. Shilajit

Shilajit is one of the most mineral-rich substances on earth. It boosts energy, increases iron levels in the blood, which means it can fight fatigue caused by a lack of iron. You can take it on an empty stomach or mix it into your favorite drink.

7. Cordyceps

Cordyceps is a mushroom that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. This adaptogen can boost energy levels by replenishing our ATP levels. ATPs are energy molecules found in the cells. Cordyceps also has many amazing benefits and of them is an anti-inflammatory effect. Cordyceps can even protect you when everyone around you has the flu. It’s available in the form of powder.

8. Shatavari

Shatavari helps improve the female reproductive system and can help relieve PMS symptoms. Just like Siberian ginseng, it’s not strongly stimulating but it’s nourishing for those who are feeling weak, deficient, and fatigued. You can use it in the form of tincture, tea, and capsules.

9. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that can help combat allergies, immune deficiency, and even autoimmune conditions. It can also help with fibromyalgia pain. 

Ashwagandha is high in iron, which makes it good for women at reproductive and menstruating age. It can also boost thyroid function and can be good for people suffering from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. 

Ashwagandha can also reduce anxiety levels and increase both male and female libido. You can use it as tea, powder, tincture, capsules, or in a smoothie.

Amelia Grant