You’ve probably heard the term “adaptogen” popping up in wellness circles, on social media, and on the labels of your favorite supplements. But what exactly are they? And how do they work?
This guide will break down everything you need to know about these powerful plants, from their history and scientific definition to how they can help you navigate the stresses of modern life.
What is an Adaptogen?
An adaptogen is a plant, herb, or mushroom that helps your body adapt to stress. Think of them as your body’s personal stress management coach.
Instead of targeting a single symptom, adaptogens work holistically to bring your body back into a state of balance, known as homeostasis. They don’t block the stress response; they help you manage it more effectively.
The 3 Criteria of an Adaptogen
To be classified as a true adaptogen, a plant must meet three specific criteria, first defined by Soviet scientist Dr. Nikolai Lazarev in the 1940s:
1.Non-toxic: It must be safe to consume in normal doses with minimal side effects.
2.Non-specific: It must help the body resist a wide range of stressors, including physical, chemical, and biological stress.
3.Normalizing: It must help bring the body back to balance (homeostasis), regardless of how the stress is affecting it (e.g., calming an overactive system or energizing a fatigued one).
How Do Adaptogens Work?
Adaptogens work by interacting with your body’s HPA axis (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis), which is your central stress response system.
When you encounter a stressor (like a work deadline, a tough workout, or a lack of sleep), your HPA axis releases stress hormones like cortisol. This is your body’s natural “fight or flight” response.
Adaptogens help regulate this process. They can:
•Calm an overactive stress response: If your cortisol is too high, they can help bring it down.
•Support a fatigued stress response: If you’re feeling burned out and your cortisol is low, they can help support your energy levels.
Imagine your stress response is like the volume on a stereo. Adaptogens help keep it from getting too loud or too quiet—they keep it in that perfect “just right” zone.
Common Adaptogens and Their Uses
While there are dozens of adaptogens, some are more well-known and researched than others.
| Adaptogen | Primary Use |
| Ashwagandha | Stress, sleep, and overall vitality |
| Rhodiola Rosea | Energy, focus, and mental fatigue |
| Holy Basil (Tulsi) | Calm, relaxation, and mood support |
| Ginseng (Panax) | Energy, cognitive function, and immune support |
| Reishi Mushroom | Sleep, immune support, and relaxation |
Ashwagandha: The King of Adaptogens
At Ashwagand, we focus on what we believe is the most powerful and versatile adaptogen of all: ashwagandha.
For over 3,000 years, this revered Ayurvedic herb has been used to:
•Support a healthy stress response*
•Promote restful sleep*
•Support natural energy levels*
•Enhance mental clarity and focus*
By helping your body adapt to the demands of modern life, ashwagandha doesn’t just mask symptoms—it helps build resilience from the inside out.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.