Adaptogens and stimulants
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STIMULANTS AND ADAPTOGENS?
So, what is the difference between stimulants (eg. caffeine, guarana, energy drinks) and adaptogens (eg. rhodiola rosea, panax ginseng, ashwagandha)?
Are adaptogens nootropics? Are stimulants and adaptogens similar? What is better? We'll discuss all of these.
In short, adaptogens are more sustainable for longer lasting energy and performance without harmful side-effects, while stimulants can cause a rapid energy release and then an energy crash.
What Is An Adaptogen
To be considered an adaptogen, the herb must:
- Benefit overall wellbeing
- Reduce and regulate stress
- Be non-toxic
How Adaptogens Work
- alarm phase
- phase of resistance
- phase of exhaustion
As we encounter a stressor (something that stresses us) for example, we start lifting weights — our body responds by kicking out hormones like adrenaline that improve muscle performance and increase our ability to concentrate and pay attention to the task at hand in the phase of resistance. Our body is literally resisting the stressor, so we feel energised and clearer, thanks to our body giving us a boost to fight the stressor. It's pretty damn cool right?
And as we begin to fatigue, we then enter in the exhaustion phase. Adaptogens basically stretch out that “sweet spot” at phase 2 (the phase of resistance) which allows us to hang out in the powerful part longer.
- powerful stress reducer
- anti-fatigue
- ant depressive
- anti-anxiety
- stimulant for central nervous system
- neuroprotective
And as the scientists in World War II found, they also increase mental work capacity, enhance attention, and prevent stress and fatigue.
What Is A Stimulant
So What Is Better?
We are sure you have all had an energy drink, coffee, pre-workout or some stimulant mix and felt energetic for one or two hours before feeling a big energy crash. Using stimulants is like borrowing energy from your future to artificially use it in the present. It’s a scientific trade off as stimulants will stimulate the body and cause a surge in hormones such as noradrenaline and adrenaline increasing attention and alertness. Unfortunately, this rapid energy spike is often followed by a crash (energy depletion).
Whereas, adaptogens are natural, and work with your body to gradually improve energy, and improve stress resilience and boost mood, improving your performance and wellbeing. By naturally supporting your body’s production of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) and hormone balance, they are a far superior choice for lasting energy and performance as they help your body and mind to create energy.
References:
Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products. (2008). Reflection paper on the adaptogenic concept. European Medicines Agency. Doc. Ref. EMEA/HMPC/102655/2007.
Panossian, A. & Wagner, H. (2009). Adaptogens. A review of their history, biological activity, and clinical benefits. Herbalgram 90: 52–63.