The Mydrate® Adaptogen Boost

Sip, Soothe, Strengthen: The Mydrate® Adaptogen Boost

At Mydrate®, we’re all about hydration with purpose, going beyond just replacing lost fluids and electrolytes. That’s why we’ve carefully selected ingredients that align with our mission of supporting both the body and mind. Two key components in our formula are Ashwagandha and Rhodiola, botanicals that have been traditionally used for centuries. While research is ongoing, they have gained attention for their potential role in stress management and endurance. Let’s explore what makes them unique.

Ashwagandha: 

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has long been valued in traditional wellness practices, particularly in Ayurveda, where it has been used for centuries as an adaptogen, a term used to describe substances thought to support the body's response to stress. Modern research has begun to explore its potential in this area, particularly in relation to stress regulation.

Some studies have examined ashwagandha’s role in supporting overall well-being, particularly in relation to stress, sleep, and resilience. 

Research suggests that daily doses ranging from 250 mg to 600 mg of ashwagandha extract have been associated with reductions in perceived stress levels and cortisol, a key stress hormone. In some trials, participants reported improved sleep quality and a greater sense of calm after consistent supplementation. Other studies have explored its potential role in cognitive function and physical endurance, though findings are still emerging. While these results are promising, more large-scale human studies are needed to better understand its long-term effects and optimal dosages.

While ashwagandha is generally well-tolerated, it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have a thyroid or liver condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, it’s best to check in with your healthcare provider before using it. A little personalised advice goes a long way when it comes to adaptogens.

Rhodiola:

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is a hardy plant that thrives in high-altitude and cold environments. Traditionally used in Scandinavian and Russian herbal practices, it has gained attention for its potential role in supporting energy levels, mental clarity, and endurance. Today, research continues to explore its effects on fatigue, stress, and overall well-being.

Some studies suggest that Rhodiola may help reduce mental and physical fatigue, particularly in individuals exposed to stressful conditions. In certain trials, participants taking Rhodiola extract reported improved focus, reduced burnout, and enhanced cognitive function. Additionally, preliminary research indicates that Rhodiola may play a role in mood support, with some findings suggesting it could help alleviate mild depressive symptoms by influencing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

When it comes to endurance, Rhodiola has been studied for its potential to support physical performance by enhancing oxygen utilization and reducing perceived exertion. While early research is promising, more large-scale studies are needed to confirm its long-term benefits and establish optimal dosages for different uses.

While Rhodiola shows promise in supporting endurance and mental clarity, it may not be suitable for everyone. It’s always best to check in with your doctor if you have low blood pressure or are taking medications for blood sugar, blood pressure, or mood regulation. Additionally, its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.

Science-Driven Wellness

At Mydrate®, we focus on intentional, research-backed ingredients. While Ashwagandha and Rhodiola have been traditionally used and studied for their potential benefits, we recognise that ongoing research is key to understanding their full scope. Our goal is to bring together hydration and carefully selected botanicals to support a balanced lifestyle and evolve with their science. 

As always, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating new supplements into your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Stay hydrated, stay balanced, with Mydrate®.

References:

1. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/#en8

2. Mandlik Ingawale DS, Namdeo AG. Pharmacological evaluation of Ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects. J Diet Suppl 2021;18:183-226 [PubMed abstract]

3. Panossian AG, Efferth T, Shikov AN, Pozharitskaya ON, Kuchta K, et al. Evolution of the adaptogenic concept from traditional use to medical systems: Pharmacology of stress- and aging-related diseases. Med Res Rev 2021;41:630-703. [PubMed abstract]

4. Anghelescu IG, et al. (2017). Stress management and the role of Rhodiola rosea: a review.

5. Cropley M, et al. (2015). The effects of rhodiola rosea L. extract on anxiety, stress, cognition and other mood symptoms.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26502953/

6. Ma G-P, et al. (2018). Rhodiola rosea L. improves learning and memory function: Preclinical evidence and possible mechanisms.
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6288277/

7. Mao JJ, et al. (2015). Rhodiola rosea versus sertraline for major depressive disorder: A randomized placebo-controlled trial.
   https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711315000331

8. Duncan, Michael J, and Neil D Clarke. “The Effect of Acute Rhodiola rosea Ingestion on Exercise Heart Rate, Substrate Utilisation, Mood State, and Perceptions of Exertion, Arousal, and Pleasure/Displeasure in Active Men.” Journal of sports medicine vol. 2014 (2014): 563043. doi:10.1155/2014/563043