What are Adaptogens?
- Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MBA
- 3 min read
Description
Adaptogens are certain herbs, plants, mushrooms, and substances with pharmacological activity. They possess unique pharmacological properties that promote homeostasis, boost resilience, and improve overall well-being. Adaptogens improve the body’s resilience to physical stress without increasing oxygen consumption. These natural compounds may demonstrate immunomodulatory effects, boosting the body’s defense mechanisms against infections and diseases. Consuming adaptogens is linked to the body’s improved capacity to adapt to stress, regulate metabolic functions, and enhance mental and physical performance.
Plants must have the following three qualities to be an adaptogen:
Non-toxic when taken in normal doses
Helps your body cope with stress
Allows your body to return to a balanced state (homeostasis)
Uses
Many people use adaptogens because they may impact how your body deals with stress, anxiety, and fatigue. When consumed, these herbs provide apoptogenic actions and target certain stressors in your body.
Some people consume adaptogens to:
Alleviate anxiety
Reduce fatigue and/or increase energy
Cope with trauma
Regulate emotional reactions to stress
Supports the immune system & its defense mechanisms
Common Adaptogens
Examples of commonly used Adaptogens:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ginseng (Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius)
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Mushrooms (Cordyceps, Reishi)
Rhodiola Rosea
Side Effects
Adaptogens are generally well tolerated. Side effects are rare, but possible and vary based on the plant and the product.
Side effects of adaptogens might include:
Allergic reactions
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Nausea
Diarrhea
It’s also important to understand the purpose of the adaptogen you are taking and how it will affect your body. For example, specific adaptogens increase energy, it’s wise to avoid them before bed because it would be difficult to fall asleep.
In rare cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to certain adaptogens. It is crucial to discontinue use and seek medical help if one notices symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Sources
C. C. medical. (2022, February 10). Adaptogens. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22361-adaptogens
Panossian, A. (2017). Understanding apoptogenic activity: Specificity of the pharmacological action of adaptogens and other phytochemicals. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1401(1), 49-64. https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.13399
Todorova, V., Ivanov, K., Delattre, C., Nalbantova, V., Karcheva-Bahchevanska, D., & Ivanova, S. (2021). Plant Adaptogens—History and Future Perspectives. Nutrients, 13(8). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082861
In this article
Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MB
Dr. Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk is a renowned life scientist with expertise in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. A Harvard Medical School faculty member since 2005, she has led research on diabetes and cardiovascular diseases while mentoring students and postdocs.
As a sought-after speaker, Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk shares her insights at events like Supply Side West and Women in Nutraceuticals (WIN), and has presented Canomiks’ work at top conferences. She is featured in publications such as Nutraceuticals World and Nutrition Industry Executive. Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk actively supports the nutraceuticals industry, serving as Co-Chair of the WIN Science Committee, and as a board member for Launch Minnesota and the Jeremiah Program.
She holds a PhD in Pharmacology from Tulane University, an MBA from MIT Sloan, and a BSc from the University of Mumbai. Her leadership continues to influence Canomiks and the wellness industry.
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