Adaptogens: The Original Preventives

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Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

This popular flavoring in confections is also a powerful healer widely used in Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic traditions. It has an affinity for the adrenal glands and mucous membranes, which makes it a great tonic for those who push themselves too hard (long work days, too much coffee, always on the go), especially when that stress manifests in the gut.

There is nothing like licorice for ulcers and the inflammation caused by food sensitivities, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and stress. Licorice’s ability to soothe inflammation is due in part to its cooling, sweet nature, and also to the fact that it mimics one of the body’s natural anti-inflammatory chemicals, aldosterone. This makes it an ally for anyone trying to wean themselves off of doctor-prescribed steroids. As a result of licorice’s ability to impersonate aldosterone, the herb can, when taken for long periods, raise blood pressure. If you have problems with hypertension and are interested in taking licorice, it’s best to consult an herbalist or a physician who’s knowledgeable about herbs.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

The most calming of the medicinal mushrooms, reishi is thought to increase longevity and pacify the spirit. My favorite account of its powers comes from Chinese folklore, recounted in the textbook Phytotherapy & Materia Medica (1998) by Amanda McQuade Crawford: “A magical mushroom of deathlessness was being carried in ravens’ beaks to a distant site of massacre where the forces of evil or disharmony had cruelly vanquished the defenders of the Way of Peace. The reishi was placed on the corpses’ faces, whereupon they immediately sat up, restored to life so harmony and goodness were re-established.’’

From a Western point of view, reishi is a remarkable organ tonic. It improves circulation and oxygenation of the heart, and lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. It also protects and enhances the functioning of the liver, kidneys, lungs, stomach, nervous system and immune system. Reishi also shows excellent promise as a cancer preventive.

Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera)

Often referred to as “the ginseng of India,’’ few herbs are as prized by Ayurvedic practitioners as ashwaganda. The herb is considered a rejuvenative of the highest order and is used for all conditions of weakness — anything from nervous exhaustion and overwork to malnourishment and cachexia, the muscle wasting often experienced in the more advanced stages of cancer.

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