As a startup founder, I understand the challenges that come with building a successful business. But did you know that incorporating herbal infusions into your daily routine can support your overall well-being? Before becoming a founder, I practiced herbalism as a hobby and found it to be a nourishing and magical practice. I love finding ways to fold in the knowledge I've gained from my hobbies into my next venture, and herbalism has so much to offer on any journey. The wisdom of plants is always available to us, whether we are intentionally communing with nature or sitting at our desk sipping tea.
Adaptogenic herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their ability to help the body adapt to stressors and support healthy immune function. As a founder, staying healthy and focused is crucial to achieving goals. That's why I've turned to adaptogenic herbs to support me on my journey.
In this article, I'll share some of my favorite supportive herbs and their benefits, as well as ways to incorporate them into your routine. By connecting with the wisdom and healing support of plants, you'll be better equipped to handle the challenges that come with running a successful startup.
I have included recipes for each adaptogenic herb. The recipes are merely meant to serve as a starting point, but please feel free to play around to match your taste. I'm a huge fan of following your intuition as you brew some magic in the kitchen!
When sourcing the herbs, I prefer to use the cut & sifted plant over powder for herbal infusions. Mostly because it's easier to strain. If you use powder, you will need less plant material. Start by halving the amounts and play from there.
If you're interested in trying this recipe and want to source high-quality, organic herbs, you can find them at Mountain Rose Herbs. As an affiliate partner, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through our link, which helps support our work in bringing you these recipes and articles.
Join me as we dive into the power of plants!
Eleuthero
Looking for a powerful herb that can help you conquer stress and boost mental clarity? Look no further than Eleuthero!
Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, is a powerful adaptogen that has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its popularity has been on the rise in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. Despite its mild taste, Eleuthero is an herb that packs a punch. It is sometimes referred to as the "king" of adaptogens due to its potent stress-reducing and adrenal-supporting properties. I often think of Eleuthero as a zen master of divine neutrality, floating stoically on a lotus flower, ready to handle anything heading its way.
Eleuthero is my go-to adaptogen for every blend I make. It has a mild salty taste that improves the flavor of anything in its mix, a quality I would love to embody as a founder. I had been taking Eleuthero daily for months as a flavor booster before I even realized its powerful nootropic benefits!
Eleuthero is an excellent herb for those who are looking to manage stress levels and achieve mental clarity. As a master of balance, it helps bring you back to neutral, creating space for mental clarity. Its balancing effects help the body to cope with stress, bringing it back to a state of equilibrium. This adaptogenic herb has the unique ability to increase resilience to stress over time, making it a great addition to any daily routine.
Its long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as scientific studies, attest to its effectiveness. If you are looking to incorporate adaptogens into your wellness routine, Eleuthero is an excellent place to start.
Resilience Refresher Elixir
Looking for a refreshing, yet powerful tea that can help you tackle stress and boost your energy? Look no further than the Resilience Refresher Elixir! This delicious blend of Eleuthero, Schisandra Berry, and Hibiscus is packed with adaptogenic and antioxidant properties, making it the perfect beverage for an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, it's easy to make and can be enjoyed either chilled or over ice.
Want an extra kick? Add a bit of Rhodiola for a stimulating twist, but be careful not to upset the balance of flavors! Give this elixir a try and get ready to take on the day with renewed resilience and vitality.
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Rhodiola
Rhodiola, also known as "golden root" or "arctic root," is a resilient adaptogenic herb that thrives in the harshest of environments such as the rocky high altitudes and freezing temperatures of Siberia. Just like the strong and resilient character Luisa from Encanto, Rhodiola possesses a strength that moves mountains for life. This herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its ability to support the body's stress response and improve mental and physical performance.
In addition to its adaptogenic properties, Rhodiola is also known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that have shown promising results in recent studies. Known as a stimulant, Rhodiola is great for bringing in some extra muscle, literally! She has been used in Russia and beyond as a performance enhancer, making it a popular herb among athletes and Olympians.
I use Rhodiola in the afternoons when I need a little boost but want to skip the caffeine. I appreciate that it's stimulating while calming, helping me feel motivated and focused. When I drink Rhodiola, I can feel her spirit encouraging me to push a little further, and, if I'm having trouble channeling my energy, to get out and move my body.
Definitely an acquired taste, Rhodiola can be paired with other adaptogens like Eleuthero create a balanced and harmonious blend. By incorporating Rhodiola into your routine, you may experience improved mood, energy, and overall well-being.
Founders Fuel Elixir
Looking for a powerful and energizing tea to fuel your day as a startup founder? Look no further than Founders Fuel! This blend of Eleuthero and Rhodiola is the perfect combination to help you conquer stress, boost mental clarity, and improve your overall sense of wellbeing.
Eleuthero is known for its resilience-building effects. Meanwhile, Rhodiola, another potent adaptogen, has been shown to help increase energy levels, reduce fatigue, and improve cognitive function.
Together, these two herbs create a powerhouse blend that can help you power through even the most demanding workdays. And with the mildly bitter flavor of Rhodiola smoothed out by the subtle saltiness of Eleuthero, Founders Fuel is not only energizing but also palatable. Don't forget, you can source these herbs from our affiliate partner, Mountain Rose Herbs, to ensure you're getting the highest quality ingredients possible.
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Reishi
Reishi, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, is a type of medicinal mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is believed to have a range of health benefits, including immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This powerful adaptogen is another resilience builder for your arsenal, and we know we'll need a lot of that on this journey.
Research has shown that reishi mushrooms contain bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, triterpenoids, and polysaccharides, which may help to modulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress. Reishi has a bitter taste that can seem like eating dirt, so I like to include Reishi in flavorful recipes for the added benefits without being overpowered. I especially love adding a slice of dried reishi to broth or a teaspoon of powdered reishi to a chocolate elixir.
Reishi is not only beneficial to the body, but the spirit as well. The spirit of Reishi is all about death and rebirth. This mushroom creates life from death, reminding us that everything is temporary and its passing feeds the next moment. We are never starting back a zero, we bring all of our lives into the next moment. She helps you let go so you can be reborn from rich, fertile ground.
Reishi Cocoa Comfort
Indulge in a warm and comforting treat with a twist by trying out our Reishi Hot Chocolate recipe. Made with the powerful adaptogen, reishi mushroom, this hot chocolate not only tastes delicious but also provides a range of health benefits. In combination with rich cacao powder and a touch of honey, this drink is the perfect way to warm up on a cold night or start your morning with a boost. Try out our recipe and experience the benefits of reishi in a delicious and indulgent way.
Ingredients
Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola, also known as Centella asiatica, is a small plant native to Asia that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It's a popular adaptogen that helps improve overall wellbeing. Its leaves are shaped like small umbrellas which is a great little analogy - a sweet little plant helping you feel resourced in even the stormiest of conditions. You'll feel sharp and supported with the support and cover of Gotu Kola. The umbrella-like leaves of Gotu Kola have also been associated with the concept of protection and shelter. In some cultures, the plant is believed to offer protection from evil spirits and negative energies.
One of the primary active compounds in Gotu Kola is asiaticoside, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and may also help stimulate collagen production. This makes Gotu Kola a popular ingredient in topical creams and ointments for skin health.
In addition to its skin benefits, Gotu Kola has also been shown to have positive effects on brain function. It has been used to improve memory and concentration, as well as increase resilience against stress. One study even found that taking Gotu Kola supplements for two months improved cognitive function in older adults. Gotu Kola is also known for its ability to improve circulation, which is perfect to get your juices flowing for creativity and innovation.
Some people also use Gotu Kola for improving mood and reducing stress. Its adaptogenic properties may help regulate the body's stress response and promote a sense of calmness. Overall, Gotu Kola is a powerful herb with numerous health benefits. From improving brain function to promoting skin healing, it's a versatile plant that can be used in many ways to improve overall well-being.
Levity Tea
Introducing Levity Tea, a refreshing and revitalizing blend perfect for founders seeking to unwind and find balance in their busy lives. This delicious tea features a combination of Gotu Kola, Lemon Balm, and Eleuthero Root, each offering unique benefits to support overall well-being. Gotu Kola improves cognitive function, while Eleuthero Root is known to improve focus and endurance. Additionally, Lemon Balm, with its calming and uplifting properties, helps to promote relaxation. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the soothing effects of Levity Tea.
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Final Thoughts
Incorporating herbal infusions with adaptogenic herbs into your daily routine can support your overall well-being and help you handle the challenges that come with running a successful startup. These herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their ability to help the body adapt to stressors and support healthy immune function. You can try the Resilience Refresher Elixir recipe, which is a delicious blend of Eleuthero, Schisandra Berry, and Hibiscus, packed with adaptogenic and antioxidant properties, making it the perfect beverage for an afternoon pick-me-up. By connecting with the wisdom and healing support of plants, you'll be better equipped to achieve your goals and maintain your overall health and well-being.