NALA Journal

What is Sea Moss (Irish Moss)?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:02:55 GMT

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What is Sea Moss (Irish Moss)?

The adaptogen and nutraceutical making waves in wellness

You’ve likely come across videos and social media posts singing the praises of sea moss. But what is it, and why is everyone diving in?

Most marine seaweeds are a valuable food source that are low in fat and contain several bioactive compounds that benefit the body. Sea moss, specifically the red algae species Chondrus crispus (Irish Moss) is just as beneficial. This special combination of dense nutrition and preventive care compounds is what makes sea moss more than an adaptogen. Sea moss is also a nutraceutical.

How is Sea Moss Harvested?

Sea moss is harvested from the ocean and is inherently organic. Aquaculture, which is the raising and harvesting of water organisms, accounts for about 97% of all sea moss production. Harvest methods can be as selective as hand-cutting or large-scale scale bottom trawling.

What is Inside Sea Moss?

When in its fresh state, sea moss is roughly 80% water. Without water, its composition breaks down to:

Polysaccharides - Over half of sea moss’s dry weight is polysaccharides, the biological polymer that provides its jelly structure.

Proteins - Another 10% of its dry weight contains essential amino acids, including taurine, which is rare in plant-based sources and vital for muscle and nerve function.

Minerals - 15% of sea moss’s dry weight are minerals. While many tout that sea moss contains "92 of the 102 minerals" the body needs,” mineral composition varies. It is scientifically verified that sea moss is exceptionally rich in iodine, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Vitamins - Sea moss contains vitamins A, C, E, K, and B-complex vitamins (notably B9/Folate and B2/Riboflavin).

Bioactive Compounds - Rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, which provide antioxidant properties.

What does Sea Moss do for the Body?

Most current "proof" for sea moss’s benefits comes from studies on seaweed in general or animal/in-vitro models. Human clinical trials specifically for Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) are limited but promising.

Thyroid Health - Sea moss is one of the best natural sources of iodine. Iodine is the raw material used by the thyroid to produce hormones that regulate metabolism.

Gut Health / Prebiotic - The carrageenan and other fibers act as prebiotics, feeding beneficial gut bacteria (Bifidobacterium). This can improve digestion and immune response.

Immune Support - Studies in model organisms (like C. elegans) show sea moss extracts can enhance host immunity and suppress certain harmful bacteria like Salmonella.

Muscle Recovery - Anecdotal evidence suggests that sea moss’s high content of taurine and magnesium supports muscle repair and electrolyte balance after physical exertion.

Skin Health - Researchers are interested in what happens when sea moss is applied to the skin. Its citrulline-arginine content can improve cell growth and metabolism, potentially protecting the skin barrier.

Hydration - Fresh sea moss will quickly rehydrate the body while also delivering an abundance of minerals, vitamins, and proteins.

Source Citations

David, Lauren. “Sea Moss Has Become a Billion-Dollar Health Trend. Is It Worth the Hype?” Health, 8 Apr. 2025, www.nationalgeographic.com/health/article/sea-moss-health-benefits-effects .

Lomartire, S., Marques, J. C., & Gonçalves, A. M. M. (2021). An Overview to the Health Benefits of Seaweeds Consumption. Marine Drugs, 19(6), 341. https://doi.org/10.3390/md19060341

Lotze, Heike K., Milewski, Inka, Fast, Julia, Kay, Lauren and Worm, Boris. "Ecosystem-based management of seaweed harvesting" Botanica Marina , vol. 62, no. 5, 2019, pp. 395-409. https://doi.org/10.1515/bot-2019-0027

Terpenes 101

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:59:28 GMT

Terpenes 101: Nature's Aromatic Architects

Have you ever wondered what gives your favorite fruit its unique scent, or why lavender has such a calming effect? The answer lies in terpenes, a fascinating group of organic compounds found abundantly throughout the plant kingdom. This blog post will serve as your introduction to these aromatic powerhouses, exploring their definition, diversity, and how they shape our experiences with plants.

What is a Terpene?

In simple terms, terpenes are naturally occurring volatile compounds responsible for the distinct aromas and flavors of plants. While often associated with cannabis, where they play a crucial role in shaping the specific effects of different strains (a phenomenon known as the "entourage effect"), terpenes are actually found in almost every plant. Think of them as the plant's sensory signature, a complex mixture of scents that can range from fruity and floral to earthy and spicy.

Beyond Aroma: The Power of Terpenes

But terpenes are far more than just pleasant scents. These compounds have been studied for their potential therapeutic effects, and research suggests they can influence everything from mood and anxiety levels to pain perception and even anti-inflammatory responses. Here’s a look at some of the most common terpenes, their characteristic aromas, potential effects, and the plants where they are commonly found:

Myrcene: The most abundant terpene in cannabis, myrcene boasts an earthy, musky, and slightly fruity aroma, reminiscent of cloves. Known for its potentially relaxing and sedating effects, it's often found in strains that promote calm. Myrcene is also present in hops, thyme, and mangoes.
Limonene: As the name suggests, limonene carries a bright, citrusy aroma, like lemon or orange peel. Research suggests it may have mood-elevating and stress-relieving properties. This terpene is also found in citrus fruits, juniper, and peppermint.
Pinene: Available in two forms (alpha-pinene and beta-pinene), this terpene exhibits a fresh, piney, and woody scent. Pinene is thought to have potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects and may even counteract the memory-impairing effects of THC. It's abundant in pine trees, rosemary, and basil.
Linalool: Best known as the primary component of lavender, linalool offers a delicate, floral, and slightly spicy aroma. This terpene is widely recognized for its potential calming and anti-anxiety effects.
Beta-Caryophyllene: This terpene is unique because it can also interact with the body's endocannabinoid system directly. It has a spicy, peppery aroma, like black pepper or cloves. Beta-Caryophyllene shows promise for its potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It’s found in black pepper, cloves, and various herbs.

Terpenes vs. Flavonoids: A Crucial Distinction

It's easy to confuse terpenes with flavonoids, another important class of plant compounds. While both contribute to a plant's overall character, they serve distinct functions. Terpenes are primarily responsible for aroma and flavor and are thought to influence the physiological effects of the plant. Flavonoids, on the other hand, are responsible for a plant's pigmentation (think of the vibrant colors in fruits and vegetables) and contribute to its flavor profile. Both terpenes and flavonoids are part of the complex "entourage effect," working synergistically with cannabinoids like CBD and CBN.

From Plant to Product: The Art of Extraction

So, how do we access these precious compounds? Terpenes are typically extracted from plant material using methods like steam distillation or hydrocarbon extraction. These processes carefully isolate the aromatic compounds while preserving their delicate chemical structure. Once extracted, pure terpenes can be used in a variety of ways:

Aromatherapy: Extracted terpenes are essential components in essential oils used for relaxation, stress relief, and mood enhancement.
Product Formulation: Terpenes are increasingly used to create custom flavors and aromas in food and beverages, cosmetics, and even cleaning products.
Enhancing Cannabinoids: Extracted terpenes are often added back into concentrates, vape cartridges, and topicals to restore flavor and potentially enhance specific effects, allowing for a more tailored experience.

Conclusion

Terpenes are truly the hidden gems of the plant kingdom, shaping our sensory experience and potentially influencing our well-being in subtle yet profound ways. As we continue to unlock the secrets of these aromatic architects, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complex chemistry that exists all around us, from the calming scent of lavender to the intricate nuances of your favorite strain. The next time you encounter a captivating aroma, take a moment to appreciate the magic of terpenes!

What is Cannabigerol (CBG)?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 21:27:00 GMT

What is Cannabigerol (CBG)?

Cannabis’ minor constituent with major benefits

While THC and CBD are widely studied cannabinoids, Cannabigerol is a lesser-known cannabinoid that is growing in popularity. Just like Cannabinol (CBN), CBG is not a psychoactive cannabinoid. Meaning, people who use CBG will not experience intoxicating effects like changes to their visual perception, time perception, and it will not impact users' short-term memory.

Glossary

To understand how CBG and other cannabinoids interact with the body, the following definitions are provided for the types of molecules, systems, and parts referenced.

Cannabinoid - A specific classification of compounds, usually produced naturally via plants and animals, but can be synthetically manufactured.

Phytocannabinoid - Cannabinoids that are formed inside a plant.

Endocannabinoid - Cannabinoids that are formed inside an animal's body.

Endocannabinoid system , A biological system of neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors and receptor proteins. Also known as “ESC.”

Cannabinoid Receptor 1 , or CB1 receptor, is one of the two pivotal components of the ECS, they play an important role in regulating motor control, the capacity to feel pain, emotional regulation, and reward processing.

Cannabinoid Receptor 2 , or CB2 receptor, modulates the functions of immune cells and limits how much pro-inflammatory stimuli is released.

Cannabigerol, also known as: CBG

Cannabigerol, also known as CBG, is a unique molecular mechanism with a therapeutic profile full of potential. While its activity within the Endocannabinoid System (ESC) and characteristics are similar to those of other cannabinoids, for example, producing effects by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Researchers are investigating CBG’s therapeutic applications for treating inflammation, combating bacterial infections, managing hypotension, aiding in cancer treatment, alleviating pain, and addressing metabolic syndrome.

Alkemy Protocol Service

Want to find out more about adaptogens and how to use them? Register for our upcoming webinar where Vic the Alchemist breaks down six life-enhancing adapotgens and will answer any questions you have.

Source Citations

Jastrząb, A., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2022). The Origin and Biomedical Relevance of Cannabigerol. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(14), 7929. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23147929

Li, S., Li, W., Malhi, N. K., Huang, J., Li, Q., Zhou, Z., Wang, R., Peng, J., Yin, T., & Wang, H. (2024). Cannabigerol (CBG): A Comprehensive Review of Its Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential. Molecules, 29(22), 5471. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29225471

What is Cannabinol (CBN)?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:43:03 GMT

What is Cannabinol (CBN)?

The most slept on cannabinoid for treating insomnia

While THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and CBD (cannabidiol) remain at the forefront of popularity and use, cannabinol, called CBN for short, is gaining momentum. Here, we will review what CBN is and why people are turning to products that contain CBN for sleep and relaxation.

Cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System

Here is a quick glossary of words we will use to explain how CBN interacts with the body.

Cannabinoid - A diverse structural classification of compounds, typically produced through plants and animals, but can be created synthetically.

Phytocannabinoid - Cannabinoids that form naturally inside a plant. 113 distinct phytocannabinoids have been isolated and identified from the cannabis plant alone.

Endocannabinoid - Lipid-based neurotransmitters that form inside the human, dog, and cat body. Endocannabinoids bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are dispersed throughout the nervous system. Endocannabinoids play a part in regulating pain, mood, appetite, and sleep.

Endocannabinoid system , or ECS, is a biological system comprised of neurotransmitters called “endocannabinoids” that bind to cannabinoid receptors and receptor proteins found throughout the central nervous system. The ECS is composed of CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Cannabinoid Receptor 1 , or CB1 receptor, is one of the two pivotal components of the ECS, and proliferates in the central nervous system. CB1 modulates the release of neurotransmitters and synaptic plasticity. Meaning they play an important role in regulating motor control, the capacity to feel pain, emotional regulation, and reward processing.

Cannabinoid Receptor 2 , or CB2 receptor, is mainly located in the immunesystem including B-cells, T-cells, and macrophages. They are primarily expressed in immune tissues like the spleen, tonsils, and bone marrow. CB2 modulates the functions of immune cells and limits how much pro-inflammatory stimuli is released.

For a deeper dive into cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system, check out our “ What is CBD?” blog .

Cannabinol, also known as: CBN

CBN is not intoxicating in the same way THC is, but it does have mild psychoactive effects, primarily drowsiness and sedation. CBN is a phytocannabinoid created by hemp and cannabis plants, but can also come from the oxidation of THC. Cannabis flower that is rich in THC will eventually age into CBN, transforming the experience from intoxicating to sleep-inducing.

Alkemy Protocol Service

Register for our upcoming webinar to discover how CBN and other adaptogens can help you achieve your health and recovery goals.

Conclusion

CBN is one of the 113 unique cannabinoids. Still in the early stages of human research trials with studies ongoing on its effectiveness for sleep, pain management, and anti-inflammation.

Source Citations

Abood M, Barth F, Bonner TI, Cabral G, Casellas P, Cravatt BF, et al. (22 August 2018). "CB1 Receptor" . IUPHAR/BPS Guide to Pharmacology . International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. Retrieved 9 November 2018.

Bie, B., Wu, J., Foss, J. F., & Naguib, M. (2018). An overview of the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor system and its therapeutic potential. Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology, 31(4), 407. https://doi.org/10.1097/ACO.0000000000000616

Cannabinoids and neuroinflammation: Therapeutic implications

Leonard B.E., Aricioglu F.

Journal of Affective Disorders Reports , 2023 pp 100463

Endocannabinoid system and mood disorders: Priming a target for new therapies

Micale V., Di Marzo V., Sulcova A., Wotjak C.T., Drago F.

Pharmacology & Therapeutics , 2013 pp 18-37

Lavender, I., McCartney, D., Marshall, N., Suraev, A., Irwin, C., Gordon, C. J., Saini, B., Grunstein, R. R., Yee, B., McGregor, I., & Hoyos, C. M. (2023). Cannabinol (CBN; 30 and 300 mg) effects on sleep and next-day function in insomnia disorder (‘CUPID’ study): Protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over, three-arm, proof-of-concept trial. BMJ Open, 13(8), e071148. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071148

The synaptic lipidome in health and disease

Valles A.S., Barrantes F.J.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Biomembranes , 2022 pp 184033

What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 22:12:39 GMT

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What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

Everything you need to know about the world’s second most popular cannabinoid

For decades, the cannabinoid called tetrahydrocannabinol, otherwise known as THC, was the focus of many alternative health spaces. Today, Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is among the most studied cannabinoids alongside THC and CBN.

Cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System

To understand how CBD interacts with the body, it is helpful to define what cannabinoids are and the system inside the body that interacts with cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are compounds that naturally occur inside the cannabis plant, including in hemp. They primarily form inside trichomes, which are tiny, translucent bulbs that pepper the exterior of cannabis buds (flowers) and the fan leaves of the plants, often referred to as “sugar leaves.”

Phytocannabinoids are cannabinoids that form naturally inside a plant, which distinguishes them from cannabinoids produced synthetically in a lab. Phytocannabinoids have been identified in other plants, including licorice, rhododendron, and liverwort. There are at least 113 distinct phytocannabinoids that have been isolated from the cannabis plant.

Endocannabinoids are lipid-based neurotransmitters that form inside the body and bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors attached to the nervous system. They regulate pain, mood, appetite, and sleep.

Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, is a biological system comprised of neurotransmitters called “endocannabinoids” that bind to cannabinoid receptors and receptor proteins that show up throughout the central nervous system. The ECS is composed of CB1 and CB2 receptors, which involve three core components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.

Cannabidol, also known as: CBD

CBD was discovered in the 1940s, and its most popular medical application is as an anticonvulsant. Specifically, it is used as a treatment for rare forms of childhood epilepsy. Cannabidol is also known for its antimicrobial properties, especially against highly virulent, antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

Alkemy Protocol Service

Register for our upcoming webinar to discover how CBD and other adaptogens can be helpful to your health and recovery goals.

Conclusion

CBD is a cannabinoid and is highly effective at treating specific types of epilepsy. CBD lotions and topicals can also create an antibacterial barrier while moisturizing the skin. Plants other than cannabis and hemp can make cannabinoids.

Source Citations

Berida TI, Adekunle YA, Dada-Adegbola H, Kdimy A, Roy S, Sarker SD (2024). "Plant Antibacterials: The Challenges and Opportunities". Heliyon. 10 (10) e31145. Bibcode:2024Heliy..1031145B. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31145. PMC 11128932. PMID 38803958.

Blaskovich MA, Kavanagh AM, Elliott AG, Zhang B, Ramu S, Amado M, et al. (2021). "The antimicrobial potential of cannabidiol". Communications Biology . 4 (1) 7. doi:10.1038/s42003-020-01530-y. PMC 7815910. PMID 33469147.

Epidiolex – cannabidiol solution". DailyMed . August 26, 2020. Archived from the original on February 25, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2020.

Gülck T, Møller BL (October 2020). "Phytocannabinoids: Origins and Biosynthesis". Trends in Plant Science . 25 (10): 985–1004. Bibcode:2020TPS....25..985G. doi:10.1016/j.tplants.2020.05.005. PMID 32646718. S2CID 220465067.

What is Kava?

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 02:29:47 GMT

What is Kava?

Whether you’ve been seeing it on your social media, in your local health store, or hearing friends and family tout its benefits, Kava is reemerging in popularity. Kava, sometimes referred to as Kava Kava or by its scientific name, piper methysticum, is a rich green, leafy plant that belongs to the Pepper family.

Kava’s Origins

The Kava plant is native to the Pacific Basin, and proliferated the major island groups of Micronesia, Melanesia, and Polynesia. The distribution of Kava significantly decreased during the 200 years of colonization and missionization. Previous to European contact, the kava plant and the various mythological stories about its origins and powers circulated throughout the Pacific Islands.

How is Kava used?

When most people encounter Kava in real life, they are seeing a refined version of it, as opposed to the whole plant itself. Most Kava found in stores, lounges, and online is an isolated concentration of the Kavalactones chemicals found in the roots of the Kava plant, prepared into a drink.

The traditional preparation of kava is often linked to social ceremonies and gatherings . Specifics on who may use kava and its symbolic significance vary from region to region. Almost all traditional preparations involve soaking whole kava roots in water and agitating or breaking down the roots until a muddy substance forms. This process extracts the kavalactones from the roots, at which point the substance is ready to drink.

Kava can be concentrated into an edible format as well, such as in Sun Med’s Kava Gummies, now available at NALA Health + Recover y.

What does Kava feel like?

The experience of ingesting Kava, both as an edible and as a liquid, typically induces a numbing feeling in the mouth, especially in the areas that kava made contact with. That numbing sensation is the kavalactones interacting with the mucous membrane, which is responsible for the fast onset of effects. Next is a wave of muscle relaxation and euphoria that typically lasts over an hour or more, depending on dosage.

Many people utilize Kava for the following:

Body & muscle relaxation
Anxiolytic properties (Anxiety reduction or elimination)
Anesthetic properties (light numbing sensation)
Mild sedation
Anticonvulsant effects

Are there risks to using Kava?

The effects of long-term consumption of Kava have not been widely studied by the scientific community. As such, there is no well-established toxic dose for Kava.

According to reports, the dosage of kavalactones from traditional kava usage can range from 750 to 8,000 mg of kavalactones per day. A massive range! For comparison, Sun Med’s water-soluble Kava Drops include 1500 mg of kavalactones in an entire bottle; a full dose (which is 1 ml of liquid) contains 50 mg of kavalactones.

Thanks to longstanding traditional use, we can glean that kava has a remarkably low to not-detectable toxicological impact on the body. The one toxicological impact recorded is Kava Dermopathy, which causes the skin to produce a yellow hue, and is reversible as soon as the person discontinues use of kava. This reaction only occurs when consuming an excessive amount of kavalactones, and the impacts are not permanent. Research regarding the hepatotoxicity of kavalatones has found , “[T]here is no clear evidence that the liver damage reported in the United States and Europe was caused by the consumption of kava[...].”

There are isolated cases that suggest Kava might have psychoactive properties, but there is not any conclusive evidence that kava interferes with normal cognitive processes. Furthermore, studies find that Kava does not exhibit the same addictive tendencies that accompany many other substances.

Conclusion

Talk to your local NALA Wellness Advisor to find the purest, highest-quality kava products that work best for your goals. We encourage people to dose low and slow when trying something new. Be sure to check for any possible interactions between kavalatones and any medications you are using. And consider asking your physician about integrating kava into your wellness routine or recreational fun.

Source Citations

BILIA, A, et al. “Analysis of kavalactones from Piper methysticum (Kava-kava).” Journal of Chromatography B, vol. 812, no. 1–2, 5 Dec. 2004, pp. 203–214, https://doi.org/10.1016/s1570-0232(04)00644-0 .

Glover, D.D. (2007). Kava. In: Tracy, T.S., Kingston, R.L. (eds) Herbal Products. Forensic Science and Medicine. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-383-7_2

“Kava (Piper Methysticum) Beverage for Traditional and Recreational Use.” Foodstandards.Gov.Au, Food Standards Australia New Zealand, 10 Dec. 2021, www.foodstandards.gov.au/sites/default/files/food-standards-code/proposals/Documents/P1057%20SD1.pdf .

Singh, Y. N. Kava: From Ethnology to Pharmacology. CRC Press, 2004.

What is Shilajit?

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 02:29:47 GMT

What is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a herbomineral phytocomplex that contains humus, organic plant materials, and fulvic acid as the main carrier molecules. It is considered a herbomineral because of its composition and use in Ayurvedic remedies. Shilajit is considered a phytocomplex due to its synergistic combination of multiple plants and organisms that enhance each other's effectiveness. It forms over hundreds of years of work by microorganisms slowly decomposing specific species of plants. Pure shilajit often has a sticky, tar-like, thick liquid texture, but can also be a blackish-brown powder.

Shilajit’s Origins & Use

Shilajit is a familiar component of Ayurvedic medicine, known for its characteristics as a rasayana. Hence, associating shilajit with a variety of health benefits, including increased longevity, rejuvenation, and the slowing of aging. Shilajit has many names; in northern India, folks refer to it as salajit, shilajatu, mimie, or mummiyo. While it is primarily wild-harvested in the Himalayas between India and Nepal, it has been found in Russia, Tibet, Afghanistan, and in the Andes mountains of Chile.

People in Nepal and northern India traditionally take shilajit in their milk with breakfast. It is also a part of the diet of many Sherpas, who attribute its use to their population of strong men with good health and longevity.

How is Shilajit formed?

The exact production of shilajit is still unknown.

However, researchers hypothesize that Shilajit forms by the slow decomposition of plant material from species like Euphorbia royleana and Trifolium repens. Other studies have found many other plants and organisms with the potential to generate shilajit. These include molds like Barbula, Fissidens, Minimum, and Thuidium, Asterella, Dumortiera, Marchantia, Pellia, Plagiochama, and Stephenrenchella-Anthoceros.

What does Shilajit do for the body?

Within Ayurvedic medicine, shilajit is considered to increase physical strength and promote human health. The kind of health benefits cited seems to differ depending on the region and where the shilajit was extracted.

Shilajit is rich in fulvic acid, which acts as a carrier molecule that transports beneficial minerals directly into cells. Thus, maintaining or restoring the electrical potency of those cells, staving off decay or cellular death.

Common use cases for Shilajit include:

Fight off hypoxia and muscle degradation
Relieve high-altitude cerebral edema and dementia
Treat gastrointestinal issues and dehydration
Protection from radiation
Stimulate the immune system and metabolism
Promote energy production in the body
Detoxification
Stimulate blood formation

Are there risks to using Shilajit?

Purity and verified test results are essential when shopping for Shilajit. Recent studies have found that shilajit, among several other ayurvedic products commercialized on the internet, contains heavy metals including lead, mercury, and arsenic.

Conclusion

Ask your physician about integrating shilajit into your wellness routine. Visit NALA Health + Recovery to find lab-tested Shilajit products that best support your wellness goals. It is always best to dose low and slow when trying something new.

Source Citations

Agarwal SP, Khanna R, Karmarkar R, Anwer MK, Khar RK. Shilajit: a review. Phytotherapy Research. 2007;21(5):401–405. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2100. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

Carrasco-Gallardo, C., Guzmán, L., & Maccioni, R. B. (2012). Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity. International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease , 2012 , 674142. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/674142

Ghosal S. Chemistry of shilajit, an immunomodulatory Ayurvedic rasayan. Pure and Applied Chemistry. 1990;62(7):1285–1288. [Google Scholar]

Meena H, Pandey HK, Arya MC, Ahmed Z. Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems. Int J Ayurveda Res. 2010 Jan;1(1):37-40. doi: 10.4103/0974-7788.59942. PMID: 20532096; PMCID: PMC2876922.

N. Chopra R, C. Chopra I, L. Handa K, D. Kapoor K. In Indigenous Drugs of India. Calcutta, India: U.N. Dhar & Sons; 1958. [Google Scholar]

Adaptogens: unlocking nature’s support systems

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 02:29:46 GMT

What are Adaptogens?

Unlocking nature’s support systems

If you have scrolled through wellness social media feeds or browsed the aisles of a modern health food store recently, you’ve likely encountered the buzzword "adaptogen." It’s appearing on everything from smoothie packets to supplement bottles, often accompanied by promises of balanced energy and stress relief.

While their popularity is currently skyrocketing, adaptogens are not a new fad. They are rooted in ancient healing traditions, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, now supported by modern scientific research.

But beyond the marketing hype, what are adaptogens, and how do they work within the body?

Adaptogens defined

At its core, an adaptogen is a natural substance—usually an herb, root, or fungus—that helps the body adapt to stress and exerts a normalizing effect upon bodily processes.

The concept was first formalized in the mid-20th century by scientists seeking substances that could increase human resistance to fatigue and stress without the crash associated with stimulants.

For a substance to be classified as a true adaptogen, it generally meets three criteria:

It is non-toxic at normal therapeutic doses.
It produces a non-specific state of resistance in the body to various physical, chemical, or biological stressors.
It has a normalizing influence on physiology, helping to restore homeostasis (balance), regardless of the direction the stressor has pushed the body.

Think of adaptogens as a thermostat for your stress response system. If your system is turned up too high (anxiety, frantic energy), they help turn it down. If it's turned down too low (fatigue, brain fog), they help boost it up.

Highly effective adaptogens

While the list of traditional adaptogens is specific, the modern conversation around natural stress support has expanded to include compounds that uniquely support the body’s ability to maintain balance. Below is an overview of six powerful natural substances that are highly effective for wellness.

Functional Mushrooms

Functional mushrooms are perhaps the most well-recognized category of classic adaptogens. They have been used for millennia to support longevity and vitality. Here are the three species we offer here at NALA Health and Recovery:

Reishi: Often called the "Mushroom of Immortality," it is revered for its grounding properties, helping to calm the nervous system and support immune function.

Lion’s Mane: Famous for its neuroprotective properties, it supports cognitive function, focus, and nerve health.

Shiitake: A powerhouse for cardiovascular and immune health. It strengthens the body’s defense system, and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Seamoss

Irish Seamoss is a type of red algae that has gained immense popularity as a nutritional powerhouse. While perhaps not a direct modulator of the stress response in the way Reishi is, Seamoss supports the body’s foundation, enabling it to handle stress better. It is often cited as containing 92 of the 102 minerals the human body needs. Its high iodine content supports thyroid function (crucial for energy regulation), and its prebiotic nature supports gut health, which is intrinsically linked to mental well-being.

Shilajit

Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like resin found primarily in the rocks of the Himalayas, formed by the slow decomposition of plants over centuries. In Ayurvedic tradition, it is considered a "rasayana," or rejuvenator. Shilajit is incredibly nutrient-dense and rich in fulvic acid, which aids in the absorption of minerals at a cellular level. It is used to combat fatigue, support mitochondrial energy output, and enhance overall physical vitality during times of stress.

Read all about the origins, harvesting, beneficial minerals, and common uses of Shilajit in our blog, What is Shilajit ?

Kava (Piper methysticum)

Native to the Pacific Basin, Kava is a root celebrated for its ability to induce relaxation and mental clarity without the sedation associated with alcohol or pharmaceuticals. The active compounds, kavalactones, interact with the nervous system to provide significant anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects. It is an excellent tool for unwinding the mind after a stressful day while remaining mentally sharp.

Have a deeper look into the history, chemistry, and uses of Kava in our blog, What is Kava?

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found primarily in the cannabis plant, including CBD (cannabidiol) and THC, among countless minor cannabinoids like CBG and CBN. While not always classified under the traditional definition of an adaptogen, they function similarly by interacting with the body's Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is a master regulatory system responsible for maintaining homeostasis in mood, sleep, pain perception, and immune response. By supporting the ECS, cannabinoids help the body manage its reaction to systemic stress.

Terpenes

Terpenes are the aromatic oils that give plants their distinct scents. In nature, they protect plants from environmental stressors. For humans, terpenes offer varied therapeutic benefits, often influencing the body synergistically alongside cannabinoids (known as the "entourage effect"). Different terpenes offer different adaptogenic-like properties; for example, linalool (found in lavender) promotes relaxation, while limonene (found in citrus) may uplift mood and relieve stress.

How to find the best adaptogens for your body

Finding the right combination for your unique wellness goals often requires some experimentation. We recommend "starting low and going slow" when introducing new compounds to your routine.

To stay up to date with cutting-edge natural products and to find the highest quality sourcing of these powerful ingredients, visit NALA Health & Recovery. Our team can help guide you toward the best natural solutions for your specific needs.

Alkemy Protocol Service

Attend NALA’s weekly webinars to skip the experimentation phase entirely. Sign up for a fully guided wellness plan with one-on-one consultations and a bundle of adaptogens identified to meet your specific needs.

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Conclusion

Stress will happen, but how your body responds to it is manageable. Whether you are looking to calm a racing mind, boost energy levels, or support long-term cognitive health, nature offers powerful tools.

Source Citations

Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress—Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals, 3(1), 188–224. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph3010188

Liao, L. Y., He, Y. F., Li, L., Meng, H., Dong, Y. M., Yi, F., & Xiao, P. G. (2018). A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide. Chinese medicine , 13, 57. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13020-018-0214-9

Carrasco-Gallardo, C., Guzmán, L., & Maccioni, R. B. (2012). Shilajit: a natural phytocomplex with potential procognitive activity. International journal of Alzheimer's disease , 2012, 674142. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/674142

Singh, Y. N. (1992). Kava-kava (Piper methysticum): a potent anxiolytic plant from the South Pacific. Journal of ethnopharmacology , 37(1), 13–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/0378-8741(92)90003-a

Pacher, P., Bátkai, S., & Kunos, G. (2006). The endocannabinoid system as an emerging target of pharmacotherapy. Pharmacological reviews , 58(3), 389–462. https://doi.org/10.1124/pr.58.3.2

Spim, S. R. V., et al. (2021). "Effects of Shiitake Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom Lentinula edodes (Agaricomycetes) Bar on Lipid and Antioxidant Profiles in Borderline High Cholesterol Individuals: Double blind Randomized Clinical Trial." International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms , vol. 23, no. 7, pp. 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2021038553.

Handayani, D., et al. (2011). "Dietary Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes) Prevents Fat Deposition and Lowers Triglyceride in Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet." Journal of Obesity , vol. 2011, Article ID 258051. https://doi.org/10.1155/2011/258051.