In Episode 143 of Keto Talk, Jimmy and Dr. Will Cole do a deep dive on the subject of Adaptogens–plant medicines, but not just any old plant medicines– and shine some light on what this means for your health.

"I like to think of adaptogens like Captain Planet. When all the forces combined, they saved the day. Adaptogens are a whole kingdom of substances that all work together, but they all have their own strong suits as well." – Dr. Will Cole

"Most people can find benefit from these adaptogens in their life right now." – Jimmy Moore

What are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are a broad family of herbs and plant medicines that have been used for thousands of years throughout the world. To be labeled an adaptogen, a plant medicine must fulfill at least three specific criteria:

• They are generally safe (for just about everyone).
• They help you handle stress.
• They work to balance your hormones.

How adaptogens work

Stress and hormone pathways are connected – your body’s stress system, the sympathetic nervous system, controls hundreds of pathways that are responsible for inflammation, and when inflammation gets out of control, this can lead to hormonal problems like adrenal fatigue, low sex drive, and thyroid dysfunction.

Adaptogens help to regulate the sympathetic nervous system so everything downstream works better. And because chronic inflammation is linked to many of the common health problems we see today, the medical literature has found adaptogens to have even more cool and far-reaching health benefits like:

• lowering cortisol levels
• regenerating brain cells
• alleviating depression and anxiety
• protecting heart health
• protecting the liver
• preventing and fighting cancer
• lowering cholesterol
• protecting against radiation
• balancing the immune system
• decreasing fatigue
• Adaptogen Superstars

They all mediate stress, fight inflammation, and bring balance to your hormonal system but each adaptogen also has its own special set of skills.

Here are the 12 most popular adaptogens and what you should know about each:

1. Ginseng: The pick-me-up

Ginseng varieties, including Asian White, Asian Red, and American White, are great for those seeking an extra boost of energy without the jitters that can come from caffeine. Personally, I especially like to use it to combat jet lag.

2. Pearl: The beauty secret

Crushed-up pearl powder is a great source of amino acids and will nourish skin, hair, and nails.

3. Rhodiola: The stress calmer

Rhodiola rosea is good for people struggling with adrenal fatigue and fibromyalgia, but it can have a stimulating effect on the extra-sensitive, so take it before noon or it could keep you up at night.

4. Schisandra: The adrenal supporter

Another super adrenal supporter, this berry is one I used on a regular basis during my journey recovering from adrenal fatigue.

5. Shilajit: The sex hormone igniter

People with low libido or sex hormone imbalance can benefit from shilajit. This Ayurvedic herb’s name translates as “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness.” Sounds good to me.

6. Ashwagandha: The thyroid + mood master

A superstar adaptogen, this popular herb is a great tool in supporting optimal thyroid function. If you tend to get mood swings, ashwagandha may also be all