This is an edited extract from the book Adaptogens by Adriana Ayales, founder of Anima Mundi Herbals. You can purchase the book here.
"The term "adaptogen" was coined by Nikolai Lazarev in 1957, to refer to substances that increase a state of "unspecified resistance" against multiple stressors.
In 1968, Dr Israel Brekhman refined Lazarev's work by expanding his definition of Adaptogens. He created these three qualifications:
1. Adaptogens are non-toxic.
2. Adaptogens produce a non-specific response in the body.
3. Adaptogens have a normalizing impact on the body.
Wellness is a cosmology, an all-encompassing landscape that embodies the emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual worlds of existence. A true state of wellness is not merely dependent on the condition or mind-set a person currently inhabits. Our level of wellness is finely interwoven with the intimate relationship we have with our community, our environment, and ourselves. This multifaceted universe of health and healing is cyclical, a living organism in constant metamorphosis.
The call for plant medicine in today's culture is a symbol of humanity returning to its source. A profound rebirth is in process, and the role of the plant kingdom is increasing in significance. An essential bridge is being rebuilt between humans and nature, allowing us to access the realm of our origin and the land of the luminous. Plant medicines aren't just here to provide nourishment, shelter and protection from pathologies - they're here for a much larger purpose, and that is to bring us back to the original consciousness that prevailed on earth for millenia. Herbalism is the medicine of belonging, a gateway through which we keep alive a very sacred aspect to our source."
The book contains in-depth information on all the most widely-used adaptogens, including Ashwagandha, Cordyceps, Reishi, Schizandra and Shilajit. There is also a beautiful recipes section, including Tonics, Elixirs, Broths, and Body Oils.
This gorgeous book is a must-have for the collection of everyone interested in healing plants!
Shop the full Anima Mundi Herbals range here.
