Tag: Herbs

What Are Adaptogens? Find Out How These 3 Herbs May Help You Tackle Stress Head-On
Let’s face it – life can be downright stressful! With everything moving at breakneck speed, many of us are on the hunt for natural remedies that can help us chill out. Enter adaptogens-these incredible herbs and foods help your body adapt to stress, get things back in order, and boost your overall health. While adaptogens have long been celebrated in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, modern science is catching up and backing their benefits. In this article, we’ll dive into some fan-favourite adaptogens like ashwagandha, reishi mushrooms, and holy basil, showing you how to add them to your diet for some natural stress relief.

What Are Adaptogens?

So, what’s the deal with adaptogens? These unique plants and herbs are your body’s allies when it comes to tackling physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. They work their magic by regulating how your body responds to stress, particularly through the adrenal system – home to those pesky hormones like cortisol. Unlike your typical stimulants or sedatives, adaptogens are all about balance. They don’t push you too far in one direction; instead, they help you find your groove again.

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

If you haven’t heard of Ashwagandha, you’re missing out! This superstar herb is often called “Indian ginseng” and is revered in Ayurveda for its amazing stress-busting powers.

Benefits of Ashwagandha for Stress:
- Lowers cortisol levels: Studies show that ashwagandha can zap that stress hormone right down.
- Boosts relaxation: Feel the calm wash over you without any grogginess.
- Improves sleep quality: A dream come true for anyone who tosses and turns at night.
How to use:
- Toss some ashwagandha powder into your morning smoothie, tea, or warm milk for a cosy drink.
- Prefer something easier? Capsules and tinctures are a breeze to fit into your routine.
2. Reishi Mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum)

Meet reishi mushrooms, also known as the “mushroom of immortality.” These fungi have been the go-to for stress relief and immune support in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms for Stress:
- Supports the immune system: Say goodbye to those sick days! Reishi helps keep your immune system in check during stressful times.
- Calms the mind: Enjoy a moment of peace and relaxation with this magic mushroom.
- Battles fatigue: Perfect for those feeling drained by stress.
How to use:
- Sip on reishi tea, enjoy it in powdered form, or grab some supplements.
- Its bitter taste works great in coffee, cacao, or smoothies-blend it in!
3. Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)

Also known as tulsi, holy basil is a powerhouse from the Ayurvedic tradition, often dubbed the “elixir of life.”

Benefits of Holy Basil for Stress:
- Reduces anxiety: Wave goodbye to anxious thoughts with holy basil’s calming effects.
- Promotes mental clarity: Need to focus? Holy basil helps clear the fog of stress.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Fight inflammation that often tags along with chronic stress.
How to use:
- Brew up some holy basil tea for a simple yet effective way to enjoy its perks.
- Toss fresh holy basil leaves into your salads or soups for an extra kick of goodness.
Other Adaptogenic Foods and Herbs:
1. Rhodiola:
  Known for zapping fatigue and boosting stress resilience, Rhodiola is an adaptogen worth checking out.
2. Maca Root:
  This powerhouse is praised for its energy and hormone-balancing benefits, making it a solid stress ally.
3. Schisandra:
  A berry that packs a punch! It boosts endurance and mental performance, perfect for tackling stress-related energy dips.
How to Incorporate Adaptogens Into Your Diet

Adding adaptogens to your daily routine is a piece of cake! Many of them come in powdered form, making it super easy to throw them into smoothies, teas, and other drinks. Prefer capsules or tinctures? No problem! Here are some fun ways to sneak these stress-busters into your day:

Kickstart your day with ashwagandha, maca, or Rhodiola powder in your smoothie for that extra boost.

Mix reishi powder into your coffee or cacao for a soothing drink that still energizes you.

Sip on holy basil tea before bed to unwind and get cosy for sleep.

If you like to keep it simple, go for adaptogen capsules or tinctures you can pop daily.

The Bottom Line

Adaptogens are a gentle, natural way to help your body manage stress while boosting overall wellness. By including herbs like ashwagandha, reishi mushrooms, and holy basil in your diet, you can enhance your ability to handle stress and level up your quality of life. Always chat with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements, especially if you have health conditions or are on medication. So why not embrace these powerful plants and say hello to a calmer, more balanced you?

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information in this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
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October 31, 2024
5 Common Herbs You Can Easily Grow in Kitchen Containers or Pots

Not everyone can afford to have a large kitchen garden, and space is a common problem in India. But if you still wish to eat organic produce from your own garden, there are many herbs you can easily grow in your kitchen. No, you don’t need a garden; small containers will do the job just fine. Growing herbs at home in containers can be an incredibly rewarding experience, both for your gardening journey and your kitchen’s culinary delights. These little green wonders not only add a burst of flavour to your dishes but also bring a touch of nature indoors. If you’ve been thinking about starting your herb container garden, you’re in for a treat. Not only are most herbs easy to grow, but they also thrive in containers, making them suitable for gardeners of all levels.

Which Herbs Are Best In Pots?

There are plenty of herbs that you can easily grow in pots in your kitchen or container. Here, we have listed some of the most commonly used herbs in Indian kitchens – the ones you would want handy all the time.

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

Here are 5 common herbs you can grow in containers:

1. Mint:

A fantastic all-rounder, mint is a must-have in any herb garden. Its uses range from soothing tea to refreshing mojitos and delightful mint and coriander chutney. Mint thrives in India’s warm and sunny climate but can also tolerate partially shaded areas that receive minimal sunlight. However, it does require regular feeding and watering to flourish. Plant each mint in a five-litre pot, and with proper care, it will reward you with abundant leaves year after year.

2. Coriander:

Coriander is a staple in Indian cuisine, and its distinct flavour enhances curries, chutneys, and many other dishes. The trick with coriander is to keep it from bolting and going to seed too quickly. Sow the seeds in late summer or early monsoon, and you’ll have a bountiful harvest in the cooler months. Coriander prefers a shady spot, and by regularly cutting the leaves, you can extend its growth.

Also Read:5 Kitchen Spices That Help Induce Good Night Sleep – Expert Shares Herbal Tea Recipe

3. Basil:

Basil thrives in warmth and sunlight, making it ideal for sunny spots. Water it in the morning, as it dislikes going to bed with wet roots.

4. Oregano:

A favourite in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, oregano can thrive in kitchen containers too. It prefers a sunny spot and well-draining soil. Oregano’s robust flavour is perfect for pasta sauces, pizza toppings, and marinades.

5. Curry Leaves:

A quintessential ingredient in South Indian cuisine, curry leaves impart a distinct and aromatic flavour to many dishes. These leaves love the warm and humid climate of India, and they thrive in well-drained soil. Plant them in a spacious container, as they can grow into small trees over time.

How To Keep Potted Herbs Healthy – Tips To Remember:

Group herbs with similar water needs together and choose pot sizes that accommodate the herb’s growth. A five-litre pot generally works well for most herbs, but larger ones may be necessary for certain varieties.
When picking your herbs during the growing season, avoid snipping stems from the base of the plant, as this can lead to tall, lanky growth. Instead, opt for the tips of each stem, about an inch or two above a pair of leaves. By doing so, you encourage the growth of two new shoots on each stem.
Don’t forget to feed your container herbs with natural fertilizers like liquid seaweed or worm tea while they grow. These are packed with trace elements and minerals that promote healthy growth.
By growing your herbs in containers, you’ll have the joy of nurturing these delightful plants while reaping the rewards of fresh, aromatic flavours in your kitchen.

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October 7, 2024