It may sound like the latest health trend, but in fact, traditional medicine has employed the use of adaptogens for thousands of years.

Internal and external stress on the body such as; a busy work schedule, emotional challenges, exercise, even the weather - can all play a huge role in our bodies ability to self-regulate. When we face multiple stressors on a daily basis (a la modern life) we often end up feeling rundown, fatigued and overwhelmed as our body struggles to maintain homeostasis.

This is where adaptogens come in... When consumed, adaptogenic plants interact with the complex system of glands, hormones and receptors in the body know as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is central to the body’s homeostasis, stress responses and energy metabolism.

The organic properties and compounds contained within adaptogens work with the HPA axis to help balance our systems. If there’s too much of one hormone, for instance, the adaptogens help to lower it. On the flip side, if there isn’t enough of a hormone, adaptogens can help replenish it.

Studies also suggest adaptogens interact with the immune-neuro-endocrine system, which helps the body regulate its use of energy, maintain strong immune defenses and a state of equilibrium.

Herbal extracts differ from dried herbs in that they go through a process of extracting the plants naturally occuring phytochemicals (the therapeutic compounds) away from the solid plant matter. Leaving a consentrated extract that is able to bypass the need for digestion and is easily absorbed. Extracts are also much more convenient to consume. Since the concentration can be adjusted, a smaller quantity is required compared with dried herbs.

Our herbal extracts use a combination of purified water and alcohol to decoct full-spectrum extracts. When possible, our extracts will only use purified water for this process, however with some plants alcohol is also required to extract oil-based phytochemical, where water alone is unable to do so.

The herbs inside our Seize The Day capsules are purposefully formulated to support recovery from burnout and stress.

They do this by bringing stress hormones back into a state of equilibrium, allowing the body to shift from a state of fight or flight, to rest and digest.

Since the body is no longer using so much energy in 'survival mode', naturally, energy, brain function and vitality are restored.

When a herb is classified as a tonic, it implies the plant has a toning effects on the body's organ systems. Similarly to how we tone our muscles with regular exercise and stretching, tonic herbs are meant to be taken regularly over the long-term with the purpose of toning and strengthening our vital systems.

Gentle, safe and nourishing - the use of tonic herbs can be traced back over 2000 years ago to classical TCM text. Where it was traditional to consume tonic herbs daily to enhance longevity and prevent illness.

No it's not recommended to take most adaptogens while pregnant or breast-feeding, as some can have a gentle stimulating effect or cause muscle contractions in the uterus.

Adaptogens work best when taken over a longer period of time, as the herbs work slowly, subtly and deeply to impart lasting transformation.

As a general rule, if you're in your 30's it's recommended to take adaptogens for 3 months, if you're in your 40's, then 4 months, and so on.

Then take a break and see how your nervous system has adjusted before continuing.

Above all else, we encourage the use of your own intuition when working with any herbs. If it doesn't feel right for you, listen to that inner voice.