Adaptogens: What Are They - and Are They for Midlife Women Like Us?

You might have heard the word adaptogen thrown around in wellness circles or seen it on a fancy supplement label — but what are adaptogens really? And do they actually do anything… or are they just the latest buzzword?

Let’s break it down.

What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are natural substances — often herbs, roots, or mushrooms — that help the body adapt to stress and restore balance. They’ve been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, and modern science is now catching up.

Their job? To support your body’s HPA axis (that’s the system that manages your stress hormones like cortisol) so you’re not constantly running on empty.

Some of the best-known adaptogens include:

• Ashwagandha – Great for calming the nervous system, lowering cortisol, and improving sleep.

• Rhodiola Rosea – Known to boost energy, mood, and focus, especially under stress.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi) – A powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive herb.

• Maca Root – Often used for hormonal balance, libido, and energy.

• Reishi Mushroom – Known for its calming effects, immune support, and anti-aging properties.

• Shilajit – A mineral-rich resin that may support energy, stamina, and nutrient absorption.

So… Are Adaptogens for Midlife Women like us?

Honestly? Yes — especially for midlife women navigating hormonal shifts, energy dips, stubborn weight gain, and everyday stress. Sound familiar?

As we move through perimenopause, menopause and beyond, our ability to bounce back from stress becomes harder. That’s where adaptogens can help — by gently supporting the systems that get knocked off balance when life feels chaotic.

Think of them as nature’s little helpers: not a magic fix, but a gentle nudge back to balance.

Are They Safe?

Generally, yes — especially when taken in food-based forms like teas, powders, or reputable supplements. But everyone’s different. If you’re on medication, have a health condition, or you’re not sure where to start, check with a health professional first (you know I always say: test, don’t guess!).

What Do I Take?

I keep things simple and consistent — here’s what I currently use:

• LiveGood Super Greens – This includes adaptogens like ashwagandha, matcha, and cordyceps mushroom, plus other greens and digestive support. I love it as an all-in-one base to start the day.

• LiveGood Shilajit and Sea Moss – A great combo for energy, mineral support, and immune health.

• VitaBright Ashwagandha – I take this in capsule form for additional nervous system support, especially when stress levels are high.

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Want to try any of these? Message me and I’ll send you the links.

You don’t need everything in a supplement cupboard. But the right adaptogen — whether it’s a teaspoon of ashwagandha in your smoothie or a capsule of shilajit — might be just the support your body’s been quietly asking for.