The wellness world has been enamored with adaptogens for a while now. These plant and herbal medicines have actually been used for thousands of years throughout the world but have recently grown in popularity in the Western world.

They are generally safe for everyone and work to help restore balance in various areas of your body that are out of whack. In fact, chances are there is an adaptogen out there that can help support whatever health problem you are dealing with.

As a functional medicine practitioner, it is my job to help make wellness both easy and enjoyable. If you are looking for some fun new ways to get more adaptogens into your life, look no further. These recipes will take you beyond your typical smoothie or adaptogen-powered morning latte.

Hormone-Balancing Fat Bombs

Fat bombs are a great way to add more adaptogens into your day. I love having these on hand during my day for their ability to keep my blood sugar stable and avoid the dreaded "hangery" crash. The addition of Brazil nuts and schisandra add some extra hormone-balancing power to this recipe. You can play around and sub your favorite adaptogens and other ingredients for a recipe that fits your particular tastes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coconut oil

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder, cacao powder, or carob powder

• 1/4 cup Brazil nuts, finely chopped

• Pinch of sea salt

• 1/2 teaspoon stevia drops

• 1 tablespoon schisandra powder

Directions

1. In a pan, melt all the ingredients except for the Brazil nuts over low heat. Make sure to stir continuously to avoid burning.
2. Remove mixture from heat and stir in chopped nuts. Pour mixture into silicone molds.
3. Place in freezer until hardened. Remove from molds and store in a sealed container in the freezer.

Energizing Maca Pancakes, Serves 2

Maca is one of my favorite adaptogens for boosting my energy without the jittery effects of caffeine. Instead of adding to a smoothie, try switching it up with some decadent pancakes. The great thing about most adaptogens is that they come in powdered form making it easy to incorporate into your already favorite recipes.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup coconut flour

• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

• 2 tablespoons almond butter

• 2 cage-free eggs

• 1/4 cup coconut milk

• 1 small banana, mashed

• 1 tablespoon maca powder

• 1/2 tablespoon pure maple syrup or stevia to taste

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix together all ingredients until fully combined.
2. Heat coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Drop batter by spoonfuls and cook about 2 minutes each side until done. Repeat until batter is gone. Serve with pure maple syrup, fruit, or other toppings of choice. Sprinkle with additional adaptogens if desired!

Adaptogen-powered nut butter

I love nut butter for its healthy fat and protein content. It is a great snack on its own by the spoonful or as an addition to various recipes. So why not infuse it with your favorite adaptogen?

Ingredients

• 2 cups raw nuts of choice (almonds, cashews, etc.)

• 2 teaspoons adaptogen powder of choice

Directions

1. In a blender or food processor, blend together nuts and adaptogen powder until a butter/paste forms. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days.