Adrenal Support Herbs To Help Balance Your Hormones

Theresa Groskopp

adrenal-support-herbsLow energy is an unpleasant feeling we all endure, and sometimes at the worse possible time. Unfortunately, some people experience feelings of tiredness nearly every day. Diet, exercise, and proper sleep patterns are said to be significant factors in influencing a person's feeling of energy. What many people don't know is that the adrenal glands play a key role in maintaining healthy energy levels. Placed atop each kidney, the adrenal gland is one of the several major glands in the endocrine system, which also include the pituitary, thyroid, pancreas, and ovaries or testes. When these glands function normally, healthy hormone production and regulation occurs. However, daily stress or other challenges can result in disruption in the endocrine system, including the adrenals. Specifically, during periods of stress, the adrenals produce a hormone called cortisol, known as the stress hormone, and too much of it in a person's system may lead to low energy. Taking adrenal support herbs or vitamins may help to maintain healthy energy levels. There are several herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine that support adrenal health and support energy level and a healthy stress, response, as well as support healthy cognitive function. These herbs can often be taken as a liquid extract or in capsule form. Fortunately, many of these herbs are without significant side-effects.

Adrenal Gland Anatomy

Each adrenal gland has a thin layer of tissue called the capsule. Inside of the capsule is the cortex, which comprises most of the adrenal gland's mass. The cortex has three zones, each of which serves a slightly different purpose that is vital to life. The cortex maintains the body's salt/water balance, regulates carbohydrate levels in the body, and signals for the development of sexual characteristics for the body. The central area of the adrenal gland is called the medulla. The medulla contains cells that secrete noradrenaline and adrenaline into the bloodstream. The adrenals rely on the blood supply and a connection to the central nervous system. This is why adrenal support herbs may provide optimal support for the adrenal glands. These herbs are believed to contain properties that affect signaling in nerves and moves with transport through the body in the blood supply, ensuring that specific areas of the body receive optimal support.

Adrenal Support Herbs

Licorice root supports the cortex of the adrenal glands. The herb contains compounds that help to regulate the cortisol-cortisone balance in the body, thereby helping the body properly respond to stress. A 25-75 mg dosage of two tablets daily is the standard. Licorice root is known to have other health benefits such as helping to maintain normal iron absorption, providing temporary relief from occasional coughing, and supporting female hormone balance. A liver that is functioning optimally is important for adrenal health. Dandelion root is believed to contain properties that support detoxification in the liver. By supporting the liver, dandelion root is able to help remove challenges that can disrupt the appearance of healthy-looking skin. Drinking a tincture of dandelion root may also help the gallbladder release bile, which allows steady bowel movements. Because it may support adrenal health and overall vitality, dandelion root drinks are sometimes used as a caffeine substitute. Ashwagandha is a plant that has many potential benefits, including support for adrenal health. The herb may help maintain healthy cortisol levels and therefore allow the body to properly handle daily stress. Ashwagandha may also support the circulatory system by helping maintain blood sugar levels already within the normal range. The herb has also been known to support hormone balance related to sexual health. These are only a few of many adrenal support herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine. These herbs can often be taken in more ways than the common capsule or extract. Dandelion root, for instance, has been the basis of flavorful coffee replacements. With so many potential benefits and options for ingestion, adrenal support herbs may be a useful and interesting method of supporting your overall adrenal health.
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About the Author

Theresa Groskopp

Certified Nutritionist in Appleton, Wisconsin,Founder of Natural Healthy Concepts. Natural health and nutrition advocate. Enjoys gardening, biking, fitness, boating, animals (especially cats), and cooking.

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