Rebecca Peloquin Photographs Adaptogens For LA Times

Los Angeles based food, beverage and still life photographer, Rebecca Peloquin, shot a feature for the LA Times story on adaptogens (full story here). Hunkering down in her studio, Rebecca photographed various adaptogen products against brightly color backgrounds and in camera effects, a stylistic choice that has become a part of her overall photographic vision.

The rising trend of adaptogenic drinks is growing popularity due to their supposed health benefits. Adaptogens are natural substances like herbs and mushrooms that help the body manage stress. The drinks are becoming a staple in various bars, cafes, and health food stores around the city as alcohol sales decrease.

According to the LA Times, “Examples of common adaptogens are ingredients like rhodiola (a root promoted to increase stamina), ashwagandha (a shrub promoted to reduce stress and fatigue), licorice and reishi mushrooms, which have been used as traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines for centuries. Today, those same ingredients are showing up in adaptogenic supplements and beverages, but their medical value is debated. The Food and Drug Administration categorizes adaptogens as supplements; thus they are not regulated the same way drugs are. For that reason, it’s hard for medical experts to make blanket statements about their efficiency or even their safety.”

Interested in learning more about Rebecca’s work? Get in touch with one of our producers.