There is no denying that in consumer products, what’s old is new again. Fermentation is a traditional method that goes back thousands of years, as does the use of adaptogenic herbs—and both are experiencing a surge of popularity in the marketplace with no signs of slowing down. 

While traditionally found in the dairy aisle, fermented foods are popping up in new ways. Several small batch sauerkrauts, or “craft-krauts” are lining the shelves, while miso and ready to drink beverages like kombucha are also occupying more shelf space these days. It’s only now that these two concepts have merged in a new and innovative way.

ORGANIC INDIA has just launched a new line of organic herbal supplements, including three Fermented Adaptogen blends—Vital Lift, Immune Lift and Mindful Lift—to support energy, immunity and a calm mind. The revered herbal tea and supplement brand combined these two separate century old practices for an effective solution to today’s common health concerns. Going a step beyond the standard smoothie-booster, these powdered supplements are versatile and can be mixed into meals, soups or sauces, offering an alternative to capsules and daily smoothies. Sweet or savory, these blends mix well into most recipes, making food more functional.

What are adaptogens?

With so many people looking to manage chronic stress, it’s no surprise that adaptogens have been getting attention. Adaptogenic herbs have been used in the Ayurvedic tradition for thousands of years to promote and maintain wellness. As the title suggests, adaptogens help the body adapt to environmental, biological, physical and emotional stressors. Much like the fermentation process, these herbs have been around for centuries in Ayurveda, despite their recent trending status. People utilizing stress management techniques may be turning to herbal supplements as part of a holistic approach to live more vibrantly. Ashwagandha is the most popular, but there are three key adaptogenic herbs in Ayurveda which include Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, and Amla, the Indian gooseberry.

So, what’s the difference between adaptogens? Much like berries, strawberries, raspberries and blueberries are not all the same, just because they are all berries. There are many other factors that influence its characteristics like taste, nutritional profile and color. The same is true for adaptogens. They each have their own unique benefits, attributes and personalities.

Ashwagandha has a more masculine energy and is considered a building herb—its symbol is the stallion—strong and powerful. Tulsi, on the other hand is more feminine and is considered a balancing herb—its symbol is the goddess Lakshmi who could adapt to anything. These two herbs, while both adaptogens, have a complementary relationship and many people find that they feel better by combining the herbs for a synergistic effect, over either herb individually. Amla, the Indian gooseberry, acts as caretaker, supporting immunity while rejuvenating and strengthening.

ORGANIC INDIA’s Vital Lift Fermented Adaptogen Blend—contains all three key adaptogens—Tulsi, Ashwagandha and Amla, each individually fermented to achieve the most potent formula. Ashwagandha has been used for centuries as a natural energy source. Tulsi supports immunity and a positive stress response while Amla, a traditional superfruit, is a rejuvenating tonic for overall health. This all-star of the new supplement lineup of most recently won a 2018 NEXTY Award for Best New Supplement at Natural Products Expo East.

What are the benefits of fermentation?

Fermented foods are a staple in India—this traditional method enhances digestibility, removes impurities and enriches foods with protein, essential amino acids and vitamins. 

ORGANIC INDIA Fermented Adaptogen blends feature herbs that are fermented using complementary probiotic strains for improved digestibility and biological enrichment. Probiotic bacteria help to make the herbs easier to digest.

“We use a full spectrum fermentation process that enhances each herb in the formula,” says Graham Rigby, chief innovation officer at ORGANIC INDIA USA. “We formulate to create effective solutions for specific conditions.”

ORGANIC INDIA empowers people to live vibrantly healthy lives, offering organic Tulsi (Holy Basil) teas and herbal supplements featuring adaptogenic and functional herbs that are responsibly and ethically grown by small family farmers in India. They work with thousands of small family farmers to cultivate tens of thousands of acres of organic, regenerative farmland—providing a life of dignity for their farmers while revitalizing communities and the environment.