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What’s an Adaptogen and How is Cannabis Similar?

Written by Jordyn on . Posted in Community, Using Cannabis.

What’s an Adaptogen?

What’s an Adaptogen? According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website, “Adaptogens are herbs that support the body’s ability to deal with stress—whether that stress is from anxiety, fatigue, trauma, infection, etc. They are used to strengthen the immune system and increase overall vitality.” Humans have been utilizing these natural remedies for centuries in order to regulate the physical and mental body. Overall, these magical plants are the foundation of any herbal medicine journey in order to first restore inner and outer balance.

In order to be considered an adaptogen, three characteristics must be met:
  • Must be NONTOXIC at normal doses
  • Should support the entire body’s ability to cope with stress
  • Brings the body back into equilibrium

What's an Adaptogen and How is Cannabis Similar?

Common Adaptogens:
  • Ginseng
    • Used as a natural remedy for combatting fatigue, promote emotional wellness, alleviate various ailments and physical stress.
  • Rose Hip (pictured to the left)
    • Restores hormonal balance and boosts adrenal function using naturally produced phytonutrients.
  • Ashwagandha
    • Assists in reducing cortisol levels, stress, depression, and anxiety.
  • Elderflower
    • Offers soothing properties that help calm the mind and assist with sleep aid. Assistance with digestion and recovery after  physical exertion are beneficial qualities of this plant.
What is Cannabis?What's an Adaptogen and How is Cannabis Similar?

Cannabis is a general term to describe a group of three plants with psychoactive properties; Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis. When harvest and dried, these plants are used in a variety of ways such as to induce relaxing or soothing effects, or to assist with medical conditions. As many states in the United States have legalized medical and or recreational usage of this plant over the last few years, the beneficial properties of cannabis plants are becoming more normalized for society.

Similarities of Cannabis to Adaptogens:
  • Reduces stress and anxiety
  • Increases focus, socialization, appetite and energy
    • This is depending on the strain and amounts used and how your body reacts as the human body ranges per each individual.
  • Historically used effectively in regards to fatigue, chronic pain, depression, and or anxiety disorders

Given the similarities, these natural remedies work together harmoniously.

Conclusion

What’s an adaptogen? A plant or fungi that contains natural remedies for mental or physical ailments. Due to adaptogens and cannabis having a lot of similarities, they work exceptionally well together. A combination of the two yields an enhanced experience of the desired effects and blends.