New Year's resolutions may make us feel motivated for the days ahead, but many are discarded by the time February makes its entrance. Perhaps more effective and lasting are small changes in our habits and environment to improve our health and well-being for the long months ahead. One simple way to do this is to make small improvements to your living and work spaces.
Q: How much of the Shakti Chai Powerboost and Shakti Chai Decaf tea blends are made up of adaptogens? A: Adaptations make up about 15% of the tea blend, which is a 10:1 or 10x concentrate - altogether a very potent mixture. In addition to the 17 adaptogens within Shakti Chai, the tea also contains 15% maca root extract, which is a powerful adaptogen on its own. The remaining is composed of chai spices, cacao, coconut sugar, roasted dandelion, barley, and rye.
Chicory is used as a popular seasoning throughout Europe; in Italy, the leaves are added to salads and, in Greece, the roots are served in various roasted dishes. Many don't realize that the herb has far more value than its unique bitter flavor. Chicory can soothe the mind and body while restoring balance to the digestive system at the same time.
Cultivated and harvested deep in the Amazon rain forests, guarana is the primary ingredient in many favorite soft drinks of Brazil. Like many other adaptogens, the plant has been consumed for its therapeutic properties in South America for centuries. Once again, the indigenous shamans of the Amazonian wilds had the right idea; guarana is in fact a powerful natural stimulant and restorative tonic.
Ginseng is a favorite ingredient in many health foods and beverages; you've probably seen it recently in your energy drinks and smoothies. The question is, does it really work, and why?
Gotu Kola is an ancient herbal remedy that has been popular in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Then, it was often called "the fountain of life" and was reputed to cultivate long life and wellness. While there is no evidence that the herb can make you live longer, it has been shown to exhibit anti-aging properties and promote mental health.
Another favorite of South American culture, yerba mate grows throughout Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil. The term yerba is actually the Spanish word for "herb," so the herb is often simply referred to as "mate." It's astounding composition of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids make it one of the most nutritious plants in the world.
Native to the high Andes Mountains throughout Peru and Bolivia, Maca root has been used by local herbalists for centuries to treat various conditions from anemia to depression, infertility, and fatigue. Once again, ancient herbal knowledge has revealed a remarkably effective remedy that has been largely forgotten in modern medicine. The adaptogen has been shown to curb the effects of stress and increase energy, stamina, hormonal stability, and libido.
