ADAPTOGENS: What Are They and How Can They Support Your Health?

The term Adaptogen has been gaining popularity in recent years, but its origins date back to 1947 when Soviet toxicologist Nikolai Lazarev first introduced it. He used the term to categorise substances that enhance the body’s resistance to stress and promote overall well-being.

What Are Adaptogens?

Medically, adaptogens are natural herbs that help the body adapt to stress, boost vitality, and support overall resilience. To be classified as an adaptogen, a herb must meet the following three key criteria:

✅ Non-specific response – It must help the body combat a wide range of physical, chemical, or biological stressors (e.g., anxiety, climate changes, pollution, infections, work stress, and lifestyle pressures).
✅ Restorative action – It must support the body in recovering from physical or mental imbalances caused by stress.
✅ Non-disruptive – It must not interfere with the body’s normal functions or cause harm.

The significance of adaptogens has grown with time, leading to extensive research on their effects. In 1998, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defined adaptogens as:

"A new kind of metabolic regulator that has been proven to help in environmental adaptation and to prevent external harm."

The Ancient Wisdom Behind Adaptogens

For centuries, different cultures have recognised the healing properties of certain herbs. Ayurvedic (Indian) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have long used these natural remedies to enhance longevity, improve health, and support the body's ability to cope with stress.

Many of these herbs have stood the test of time, offering benefits such as:

✅ Reducing stress and anxiety
✅ Enhancing cognitive function and mental clarity
✅ Supporting immune health
✅ Fighting fatigue and increasing energy levels
✅ Regulating blood sugar and improving metabolic function
✅ Promoting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

These herbs work by helping the body restore its natural balance, reducing the negative impact of stress on vital organs and tissues.

Types of Adaptogens: Natural vs Synthetic

Adaptogens can be classified into two categories:

✅ Plant-Based Adaptogens – These contain beneficial compounds such as saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which support overall health. Examples include Ashwagandha, Ginseng, Tulsi, and Rhodiola.

✅ Synthetic Adaptogens – First introduced in the 1970s by Professor Vladimir Vinogradov, synthetic adaptogens like Bemethyl, Aphobazole, and Bromantane were developed to enhance endurance and resistance to stress.

Popular Adaptogenic Herbs

Some of the most well-known adaptogens used for centuries include:

✅ Ashwagandha – Supports stress relief, energy, and cognitive function
✅ Ginseng – Boosts energy, focus, and immune function
✅ Brahmi – Enhances memory and brain function
✅ Tulsi (Holy Basil) – Supports immunity and stress relief
✅ Rhodiola Rosea – Helps with mental fatigue and endurance
✅ Reishi Mushroom – Strengthens immunity and promotes relaxation
✅ Liquorice Root – Supports adrenal health and digestion
✅ Cordyceps – Enhances stamina and oxygen uptake

How to Incorporate Adaptogens Into Your Lifestyle

Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management practices are essential for overall well-being. Adding adaptogens to your routine can further enhance your body’s ability to adapt to daily stressors and improve long-term health.

Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and it cannot replace the guidance/treatment of your licensed healthcare practitioner. It is not intended in any way, to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any illness, or health condition or provide medical advice or claim any medicinal benefits. Any doubts, concerns, or questions regarding the use of supplements should be referred to your healthcare provider. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or currently under any treatment or medication, please ask your treating doctor for advice before starting any health supplement.