Unleashing Endurance - Awake and Ready with Herbal Adaptogens

Why Herbal Adaptogens?

In the realm of endurance training, athletes are constantly seeking ways to enhance performance, improve recovery, and sustain energy levels! I rely on several herbal medicine allies to support my athletes in their training cycles and am always looking to herbal adaptogens for nervous system support.

Resilience to Stress: The whole idea with adaptogens - they are a category of plants that grow in SUPER tough environments. For example, Rhodiola Rosea, grows in cold and high altitude regions, like the Artic or in Europe above tree line. This plant is biologically equipped to live in these hardy environments and is a RESILIENT plant. When we ingest these phytochemicals (plant chemicals) we take on some of this resiliency.

 Adaptogens allow our body to come back to balance and adapt to stress—be it physical, emotional, or environmental. They act by reducing the impact of stress hormones like cortisol, thereby supporting better recovery and overall endurance. It is all about bringing balance to the adrenal system.

Mental Clarity and Focus:

Endurance training demands not only physical stamina but also mental fortitude and focus. Herbal adaptogenic properties extend to enhancing cognitive function and reducing mental fatigue. Allowing us to be AWAKE AND READY in sport and life.

3 Herbs I stand by and take it DAILY:

Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Part of the mint, family, this floral and bright smelling herb is such a joy to work with! I personally like to drink it as a tea, and often pairing it with Lemon Balm . The taste of these two blend beautifully together and when drank calm down a frazzled overworked mind.

In training, the cardiovascular system undergoes substantial stress. Holy Basil promotes heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This dual action supports cardiovascular efficiency, ensuring adequate oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise and enhancing overall endurance capacity.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii)

Maca is a staple in promoting better recovery and increases stamina due to its positive effect on mitochondrial function.

I use this one as a powder in overnight oats or a fruit smoothie each morning. Super simple and I find it to really improve my energy levels.

Supporting hormone balance is KEY for maintaining energy, muscle growth, and recovery. For my female athletes, maca may also help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of menopause.

Maca is also insanely nutrient dense!  Includes several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, copper, and iron. As athletes we NEED extra iron.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

This adaptogen is all the rage … no the gummies you buy at CVS to NOT have the same phytochemicals as a quality supplement. I swear by the company Gaia herbs by the way.  It has been traditionally used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to promote vitality and longevity. And I personally find it beneficial with improving the quality of sleep. Sleep is CRUCIAL for recovery and maintaining a strong immune system.

I take this one through herbal capsules, which are just the herbs broken down into powder form.

What questions do you have on how herbs can support training and health? Drop a comment or shoot coach Melissa a message directly through social @herbalrootsmelis.