An adrenal cocktail is a drink made from nutrients that some naturopaths believe can help with symptoms linked to adrenal fatigue. While there’s ongoing debate about this condition, it generally refers to a set of vague symptoms like body aches, tiredness, anxiety, sleep issues, and digestive troubles.
I stumbled upon this when I realized I was overdoing my workouts and not getting enough rest. My diet was poor, lacking in carbs and fats for years, I was drinking too much coffee and alcohol, and was stressed out in all aspects of my life, with barely any balance between my busy schedule and the rest I desperately needed.
After diving into research, I learned about adrenal fatigue. It happens when your adrenal glands, which produce the hormone cortisol in response to stress, get so overworked that they stop responding properly. The brain reduces its signals to release cortisol because there’s already a lot of it circulating due to the constant stress.
Luckily, there’s a simple fix for adrenal fatigue, and it comes in the form of a cocktail. Known as the “Vitamin C Cocktail” by Dr. Philip Carpenter, a naturopath who previously worked at Life Care Health Center in Albuquerque, NM, this drink aims to support those dealing with adrenal fatigue.
Another option is The Picker Program™ by herbalist James Howenstine, which includes vitamin C and a mixture of 21 herbs believed to assist with adrenal fatigue.
Adrenal fatigue is a common yet sometimes controversial diagnosis that suggests adrenal gland depletion. Cortisol, released by the adrenals, regulates blood pressure, and stress triggers more cortisol production. Adrenal fatigue is thought to happen when the glands can’t produce enough cortisol due to overuse.
Stress, emotional challenges, or physical activities can disrupt your mental and physical balance, impacting your body as well. High stress causes more cortisol production, leading to adrenal fatigue when the glands are too overworked to keep up.
Adrenal hormonal support supplements, available over-the-counter, can help improve adrenal function. These come in various forms, like tinctures, liquid extracts, or powdered herbs for immune support.
Adrenal Cocktail Recipes come into play here. These drinks mix supplements to help you handle stress and the demands of daily life, especially if you’re dealing with tiredness or low cortisol levels. We’ve put together some recipes to get you started.
Here’s a popular one: Mixing sweet and salty elements nourishes the glands. Consuming these for at least two weeks can help alleviate symptoms. Try it an hour before bedtime, or in the morning if you don’t see improvements in a few days.
If you’re feeling worn out, stressed, or experiencing low blood sugar, this drink might be just what you need. Lemon balm and eleuthero work together harmoniously, reducing fatigue and boosting energy, with lemon balm also promoting calmness.
Instructions: Steep lemon balm leaves and ginseng root tincture in water for 15 minutes, then strain with a cheesecloth before drinking. Use within 2-3 days, or freeze into ice cubes for up to 3 months.
Vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, are key for adrenal function. For fatigued adrenal glands, lightly salted water may be more palatable than plain water. Add more salt if you’re feeling especially drained.
A refreshing blend of fresh-squeezed orange juice and coconut water offers a healthy, energy-boosting drink. Oranges provide vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, and vitamin A, while coconut water offers healthy fats to maintain blood sugar and energy levels.
The simplest recipe: Make a cup two hours before bedtime, shake it well (a good arm workout!), fill with ice cubes, and sip 20-30 minutes before sleep, continuing through the night. If awake at sunrise, enjoy it as soon as you start your day, when the adrenals are strongest.
These recipes are all excellent for supporting your adrenal health. Boosting adrenal function can lead to a more balanced life. Besides adrenal cocktails, you can support your health by adopting a positive mindset, practicing yoga, eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest, and making time for yourself daily.
And remember, even small tweaks can result in a big improvement in how you feel.
