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It’s hard to miss the shiny, non-alcoholic, adaptogen-infused drinks that have taken over wellness Instagram the last few years. They’re popular among the sober, sober-curious, dry January adherents, and anyone else drawn in by the relaxing, stress-relieving promises made on the labels. You might think it all sounds too good to be true, but there’s legit science and thousands of years of tradition behind the use of adaptogens, so if you thought these products are nothing more than a buzzy trend with pretty packaging, well, it might be time to reconsider.
While they’ve only recently become Instagram famous, adaptogens have been around for thousands of years, studies say — you’ve probably consumed them without even knowing it. Do names like ashwagandha, ginseng, and Reishi look familiar? Those are some common adaptogens. They can come in the form of plants or fungi and are packed with a ton of physical and mental benefits.
We’ve found adaptogen drinks that range from hot lattes to sparkling water to ready-to-drink mocktails in a can, and a few have even become a staple in our editor’s fridges — the Oprah-loved Clevr Blends superfood lattes are a favorite. Adaptogen drinks are also super-versatile; one might give you your caffeine fix, another will keep you hydrated, yet another might give you the fun, fizzy feel of a cocktail minus the hangover tomorrow morning. But before we share our favorites, let’s explain what you’ll actually be drinking when you pop open one of these pretty cans.
**What are adaptogens?**
Adaptogens are plants or fungi that “help our bodies adapt to physical, emotional and environmental stress,” herbalist Vanessa Chakour tells SheKnows. They do this by regulating our hypothalamic-pituatary-adrenal axis (HPA-axis), which is basically your body’s stress response system. Different adaptogens have different effects but broadly speaking, adaptogens can:
– Increase antioxidant concentration and decrease inflammation, both of which occur when you’re under prolonged stress
– Help you feel calm and focused
– Increase your energy and stimulate hormone production
– Support your immune system
In short, “adaptogens help you regulate your response to stress,” Krause says, “whether it’s a state of being amped up, mind racing and not sleeping, or fatigued, lack of motivation with a depressed mood.” Essentially, adaptogens can help you restore your body’s balance.
**Benefits of common adaptogens**
There are lots of adaptogens out there, but some are more popular and commonly-found than others. Note that for adaptogens that have been studied, research suggests that you may need to take it consistently for six to 12 weeks before you start to notice the benefits. A small sampling of adaptogens you’ll see in the adaptogenic drinks ahead include:
– Reishi mushrooms: shown to bolster immunity, aid digestion, and may have benefits for fighting cancer
– Tulsi (aka Holy Basil): shown to be a powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune system modulator
– Astragalus root: can bolster immunity through white blood cell production and boost energy
– Ashwagandha: helps to lower elevated cortisol and DHEA levels that cause anxiety and insomnia
– Rhodiola: helps with recovery from stress and can decrease symptoms of depression and fatigue
– Schisandra Berry: excellent for irritability, agitation and being quick to anger
– Panax ginseng: boosts energy and may improve psychologic function and immune function
– Moringa: an energy-boosting adaptogenic herb with antioxidant properties
– Maca: hormone regulating and energy-boosting adaptogenic herb
– Lion’s Mane: improves cognitive function and may help prevent dementia
**Are adaptogens safe?**
Adaptogens have been used for thousands of years and generally considered quite safe. However, as with all medicinal substances, it’s important to talk to your doctor before you add adaptogens to your diet. Some adaptogens can interact with medications, so it’s crucial to start with small quantities when trying any new herb or mushroom.
**Best adaptogen drinks**
Now that you know a bit more about what adaptogens actually are, let’s get to our favorite adaptogenic drinks. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best adaptogen beverages you’ll want to stock up on so you can feel your best, whether you’re mixing up your hydration rotation or cutting back on alcohol. And once again, if you’re looking to add these non-alcoholic beverages to your self-care routine, make sure to check the label, see what adaptogens are included, and check with your doctor before sipping.
**Hiyo** – Hiyo’s social tonics are made with natural adaptogens, nootropics, and botanicals like ashwagandha, Lion’s Mane, and l-theanine. Perfect alternative to alcohol with delicious flavors like Watermelon Lime and Blackberry Lemon.
**Recess Mood Drinks** – Recess sparkling water mocktails made with mood-enhancing magnesium and adaptogens like l-theanine, gineseng, and lemon balm. Dreamy flavors like Strawberry Rose, Peach Ginger, and Black Cherry.
**Clevr Blends Superlatte** – Meghan Markle and Oprah-approved lattes made by Clevr Blends. Mix a scoop into water for a fancy barista latte at home with the added benefit of probiotics.
Check out these adaptogen drinks to feel your best and indulge in delicious flavors without the guilt.
