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As autumn arrives with its crisp air and shorter days, your body naturally begins to adjust to the seasonal shift. You may notice changes in your energy levels, mood, and even your sleep. For many people, autumn also brings a higher risk of colds and flu, along with the stress of busy schedules.

A great way to navigate the change is by implementing autumn adaptogens to help your body adapt. In this guide, you’ll discover how adaptogens can help you manage stress, sleep, and immunity, as well as practical ways to add them into your daily routine.

What are adaptogens?

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Adaptogens are natural herbs, roots, and mushrooms that help your body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Unlike stimulants that force your body into high gear, or sedatives that can make you feel groggy and sluggish, adaptogens adjust their function depending on what you need. If you’re feeling wired and anxious, they can help calm you. If you’re fatigued and drained, they can help you feel more energised.

Why adaptogens are perfect for autumn

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Although autumn is beautiful, you can also become tired, less motivated, and susceptible to illness. Adaptogens help you feel more grounded, resilient, and able to enjoy the season (including the energetic tasks of taking the kids pumpkin picking and on hay bale rides).

Adaptogens are especially useful during this season because they:

  • Strengthen your immune system against seasonal colds and flu.
  • Support stress relief when your schedule gets busier.
  • Help regulate sleep patterns as daylight hours change
  • Provide sustained energy without the crash of caffeine.

The best autumn adaptogens for stress, sleep, & immunity

Below, we’ve listed some of the most powerful adaptogens, which can be part of your essential supplements for autumn.

1. Ashwagandha

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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), comes from a woody shrub and is known as one of the most calming adaptogens. It helps regulate cortisol levels to reduce stress and anxiety and promotes deeper sleep and better recovery at night.

It’s not the most tasty herb, but it’s incredibly beneficial, so most people prefer to take High Strength Ashwagandha Capsules.

2. Korean Ginseng

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Korean ginseng is a root and is traditionally used for energy and stamina. It can also sharpen mental clarity and reduce brain fog, which is useful if you’re feeling drained by shorter days or demanding routines.

Ginseng is also a great adaptogen for stress, and you can take it over a period of 1-3 months during high-stress situations. The timeline ensures your body doesn’t get too used to the medicinal herb and prevents excessive buildup in your system. Options include Korean Ginseng Tablets and Korean Ginseng Energy Tea.

3. Cordyceps

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Cordyceps are a mushroom known for improving endurance. It supports lung function and respiratory health, which is ideal as the weather cools. Other benefits of the mushroom include fighting fatigue and maintaining steady energy to improve your wellness when the clocks change. An easy way to integrate the adaptogen into your everyday routine is by taking Cordyceps Capsules.

4. Maca powder

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Maca is often referred to as a superfood root because it supports mood swings and stress, while lifting energy and vitality. Maca powder is a great way to take the adaptogen by blending it into smoothies, lattes, and porridge.

5. Turmeric

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Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric supports joint health and helps your immune system fight seasonal bugs. It’s best absorbed when paired with black pepper, so you can make a turmeric latte by mixing grated or Ground Turmeric with Cracked Black Pepper or take Turmeric With Black Pepper Capsules.

6. Chaga mushroom

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The Chaga mushroom is a powerful antioxidant-rich adaptogen that supports immune defence by reducing inflammation, allowing the body to fend off harmful pathogens. You can take Chaga Mushroom Extract by adding it to your morning coffee, juice, smoothie, and porridge.

7. Shilajit 

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Shilajit is a mineral-rich substance that comes from the Rocky Mountains of the Himalayas. It’s excellent for cellular energy production to help overall vitality, and it strengthens your immune system during autumn and winter. 

You can take 100% Shilajit Resin, which is a sticky, tar-like substance, by adding one spoonful of Shilajit to warm water, or take Shilajit Capsules.

8. Lion’s Mane mushroom

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Lion’s Mane for brain fog improves focus, memory, and concentration. It’s particularly helpful if you struggle with mental fatigue during darker months.

The simple ways to take the mushroom are Lion’s Mane Capsules, Organic Lion’s Mane Powder, and Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract. The adaptogen has a slightly earthy, chocolate taste, so it pairs well with warm, cosy drinks like coffee, mocha, hot chocolate, and lattes. You can also add it to juice, smoothies, and stir it into heart-warming oatmeal.

If you’re curious, but hesitant about the mushroom, you can read our guide on What To Expect If You've Never Taken Lion's Mane.

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9. Goji berries

Finally, we have the Goji berry, a potent natural source of antioxidants and vitamin C. There are lots of benefits of Goji berries, such as elevating immune function and supporting eye health. Enjoy Organic Goji Berries as a snack, in trail mixes, or steeped in teas.

Safety and Precautions

Adaptogens are generally safe. However, you should consult your GP if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication. They can also have mild side effects, like loose stools, slight nausea, or stomach cramps, so start with small doses and build gradually. It’s also a good idea to buy your adaptogens from reputable UK sources to ensure you’re getting pure, quality products.

Shop adaptogens at Grape Tree

Autumn is a season of change, and adaptogens offer you natural support for stress, sleep, and immunity. Whether you’re looking for calm with ashwagandha, sharper focus with Lion’s Mane, or immune strength from Chaga and Goji berries, we have an adaptogen that fits your needs. Shop now and enjoy a stress-free, energising, and peaceful autumn with Grape Tree.

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