Description
Cordyceps sinesis is a safe, highly valued, adaptogenic herb with pharmacological activities proven to benefit nearly every physiological system that is affected by stress, including the immune system and cardiovascular system (e.g. prevention of arrhythmias, platelet aggregation and clot formation)1,2,3,4,5 It has a positive effect upon blood sugar, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.6 Cordyceps has been employed for dizziness, weakness and general wasting and is used to reduce fatigue, increase energy and enhance stamina.7 The herb has documented antioxidant activity.8 Rhodiola rosea root has been traditionally used to increase stamina and reduce fatigue, depression, nervous disorders, infections and impotence. Russian researchers demonstrated the root counteracted mental and physical fatigue and a host of stressors. The root extract may be able to prevent stressinduced cardiac damage and may be anti-arrythmic.9 Research has shown that Rhodiola rosea has an effect on brain neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin and might increase endogenous opioids.10 Panax ginseng may potentiate adrenal activity.11 Its principle constituents, ginsenosides are very strong inhibitors of acetylcholine-evoked secretions.12 In acute stress Panax ginseng reduced the ulcer index and reversed elevated plasma glucose and creatine kinase levels. Under chronic stress it reduced adrenal gland weight and triglyceride and serum corticosterone levels.13 Ginsenosides have analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities.14,15 Vitamin B6, Pantothenic Acid & Para Amino Benzoic Acid (PABA) assist in protecting the body from the ravages of stress including related fatigue. Pantothenic acid is essential to the adrenal glands for production of the glucocorticoids. It forms pantethine in the body, which then converts to Coenzyme A. D-Calcium pantothenate contains 91.96% pantothenic acid and is the usual supplemental form. Vitamin B6, acting as a co-enzyme has a role in the conversion of muscle glycogen to glucose needed for the stress response, is involved with synthesis of serotonin and enhances the immune system. PABA has a role in amino acid metabolism and is needed to manufacture folic acid.
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