Looking for a natural way to find your zen? These adaptogenic plants are famous for strengthening your inner balance and helping your body handle stress like a pro. Here’s a breakdown of what makes each of these powerhouses so special.
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++Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
Most of us know Shiitake mushrooms as a delicious addition to a stir-fry, but they offer way more than just great flavor. A staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this medicinal mushroom is often used to help with everything from headaches and stomach issues to fighting inflammation. The best part? You don’t have to just buy them at the store. They’re actually pretty easy to grow at home with a mushroom kit, and they pop up surprisingly fast!
++Magnolia Vine (Schisandra chinensis)
Also known as the “five-flavor fruit,” Schisandra is a member of the star anise family. These berries have been used in TCM for centuries as a heavy-hitting adaptogen, helping to build personal resilience against stress. It’s also a go-to for those struggling with insomnia or low moods. If you want to grow this woody vine in your garden, pick a spot with partial shade where it can really thrive.
++Water Hyssop (Bacopa monnieri)
In the world of Ayurveda, this plant is better known as Brahmi. It’s celebrated for its holistic effect on the mind, helping to lower your perception of stress. Botanically, it’s actually a wetland plant (part of the plantain family). Because it loves the water, it’s the perfect choice for a damp spot in your yard or right along the edge of a garden pond, where it looks absolutely lovely.
++Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)
Rhodiola, or “Rose Root,” is a tough-as-nails succulent that doesn’t mind dry, poor soil one bit. It’s a hardy perennial that rewards you with beautiful yellow flowers in the summer, followed by striking red fruits. In Siberia, it’s revered as the “Golden Root.” The root extract is a popular herbal remedy used to take the edge off stressful situations and boost mental endurance.
++Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Most people associate licorice with the distinctively flavored candy, but the plant itself is a fascinating herb. Its roots contain compounds that act as an antispasmodic and have been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments. While it’s primarily grown in Asia, you can successfully grow licorice in your own garden if you live in a region with a milder climate.
++Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Ginseng is probably the most famous adaptogen on the planet. Used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine, it’s all about restoring “inner harmony” and balance. It’s a fantastic ally for mellowing out your stress response. If you want to try your hand at growing it, it does well in pots and can be kept outdoors as long as the temperatures stay mild.
++Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Also known as Tulsi, Holy Basil is deeply sacred in India, where it’s often associated with the god Vishnu. It’s a versatile plant that works just as well in your spice cabinet as it does in your medicine cabinet. To get the best out of it in your garden, give it a nutrient-rich, moist spot. It’s a fast grower and will provide you with plenty of fragrant leaves in no time.
++Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum)
Botanically part of the cucumber family, Jiaogulan is often called the “Herb of Immortality.” You can use the leaves in salads or brew them into a refreshing tea. It’s a powerful tool for finding your equilibrium and boosting your overall sense of well-being. Plus, for all you gardeners out there, it’s actually quite easy to grow!