Here’s All You Need to Know about Adaptogens

It’s a word you hear a lot nowadays – in blog posts, on health websites and in common conversation – but what exactly is an adaptogen? 

While the term may be buzzy right now, it’s actually been in the medical field for over 70 years, and the herbal medicines to which it refers have been used by people for millennia. If you’re feeling out of the loop, don’t fret. This article will offer basic information about this hot new class of medicine.  
 

What Exactly Is an Adaptogen?
 

In 1947, a scientist and toxicologist named N. V. Lazarev sensed a renewed interest in traditional medicinal practices, and decided to try and classify one such group that he saw as helping reduce stress and promote homeostasis. He coined the term adaptogen, which scientists and traditional medicine practitioners still use to this day.
 

The definition of adaptogen hasn’t changed much over the years. It still refers to non-toxic plants that are used to help the body resist a variety of stressors, including chemical, physical and biological stress. 

They have enjoyed a recent surge in popularity with people looking for natural ways to center themselves.
 

What Are Some Examples of Well-Known Adaptogens?
 

Some adaptogens you’ve probably already heard of, like ginseng. Others, which have been popular in places like East Asia for centuries, are only now making their way into the western mainstream. If you’re interested in the calming, centering effects of natural adaptogens, here are a few to look out for.
 

Chaga
 

Chaga is a large coal-like fungi that grows on birch trees. It has been used by several cultures – North American Indigenous cultures, Russians and East Asians, to name a few – to help with several ailments. You can order chaga powder online – it comes in pre-portioned packets that you can add to hot water, coffee or smoothies.
 

Siberian Ginseng
 

Siberian ginseng, also known as Eleuthero root, is a rich source of polysaccharides – long chain polymeric carbohydrates that support your body’s natural immune defenses. It can also help you relieve stress. Sometimes powdered and paired with chaga (see above), the two make a potent adaptogen.  
 

Reishi
 

Another type of fungi, Reishi has been revered in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is known specifically as a calming adaptogen. Like chaga and Siberian ginseng, Reishi is popularly enjoyed in beverage form, mixed into liquid.
 

Ashwagandha
 

Ashwaganda is a member of the nightshade family and has been a staple of Indian medicine for over 3,000 years. It has a pungent, barn-like aroma, and has been studied for its potential anti-cancer, cortisol reduction and anti-stress properties.
 

Have There Been Studies?
 

There have been numerous studies on the efficacy and nutritional value of various adaptogens. One influential overview cites several benefits, like immune system regulation, nervous system improvement and anti-fatigue effects. As scientific interest in adaptogens continues to gain momentum, expect to see more studies, more headlines and more dialogue surrounding these calming plants.
 

Hopefully this article has helped demystify adaptogens. Ultimately, it’s a scientific word for a very straightforward concept: plants, used for ages in traditional medicine, that can reduce stress and benefit the body in several ways.

This is a guest blog entry