Why 3 months are crucial – and how adaptogens can strengthen your nervous system
Why nutritional supplementation is useful for at least 3 months
– and how adaptogens & medicinal mushrooms can support your nervous system
Many people expect quick results from dietary supplements. However, the body functions in cycles. Micronutrient stores need to be replenished, cellular processes supported, and hormonal systems regulated. Especially with adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms, their effects often only become apparent after several weeks.
Why 3 months is a sensible minimum duration:
- Cell cycle : Many body cells renew themselves within 4 to 12 weeks – especially skin, blood and intestinal cells.
- Nutrient storage : Vitamins such as B12, D3 or minerals such as zinc and selenium need time to be converted into storage forms.
- Neurotransmitters & Hormones : Systems such as cortisol, serotonin or dopamine do not react immediately, but adapt gradually.
What adaptogens do (scientifically speaking)
Adaptogens are plant compounds that can help the body better cope with physical and emotional stressors.
Studies show:
- Ashwagandha can lower cortisol, improve sleep quality, and relieve burnout symptoms.
- Rhodiola Rosea increases stress tolerance and reduces mental fatigue.
Panossian & Wikman (2010) show : Adaptogens can have a regulatory effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system.
Medicinal mushrooms: adaptogens from the realm of mycotherapy
- Reishi can have a calming, immunomodulatory effect and support healthy sleep.
- Hericium (lion’s mane) can promote the regeneration of nerve pathways (NGF stimulation).
- Cordyceps can increase energy and endurance and have a harmonizing effect on the autonomic nervous system.
Source: Benzie & Wachtel-Galor (2011), Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects.
Why it is important to regulate the nervous system:
The autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic) controls all unconscious processes: heart rate, digestion, hormone secretion, sleep. When it's permanently in "alarm mode," chronic stress develops—which forms the basis of many modern ailments.
3 signs of an overstimulated nervous system:
- You are easily irritated or overwhelmed
- You feel restless despite being tired
- You have gastrointestinal problems without a clear cause
3 things you can do:
- Use adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms in a targeted manner : e.g. Reishi in the evening, Rhodiola in the morning, Ashwagandha for stress regulation
- Breathing exercises such as box breathing or 4-7-8 technique : Help to bring your nervous system into the parasympathetic state
- Create digital & emotional stimulus breaks : Less screen time, more nature, conscious social contacts
Conclusion
True balance doesn't happen overnight. Give your nervous system, your gut, and your hormone balance the time and support they need—and stick with it for at least three months. Your body will thank you.
