What Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are a special class of natural compounds or plant extracts. The term concept was first proposed by the former Soviet scientist N.V. Lazarev in 1947. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognized adaptogens as a new metabolic regulator in 1998. It has been proven that it can increase the organism’s ability to adapt to the environment and resist external damage.
According to a Research And Markets report, the adaptogen market size is $10.67 billion in 2023 to $11.67 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$20.3286 billion by 2031. Currently, the more common adaptogenic plant ingredients on the market include Ashwagandha, Ginseng, Astragalus, Basil extract, Rhodiola rosea, Schisandra, mushrooms, etc.
4 Top Adaptogens Benefits
- Non-specific
The effects of adaptogens are not limited to specific organs or systems but broadly affect the entire body. It increases resistance to many types of stress.
- Balancing effect
This type of substance helps the body maintain the stability of the internal environment and offset the disturbance caused by external stressors.
- No toxic side effects
Within the usual dosage range, it does not cause pathological harm. It is almost non-toxic to the body.
- Wide range of applications
Such substances can affect various functions of the body, including the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems. It helps the body adapt to and resist various forms of stress.
Some of our traditional tonic Chinese medicinal materials have “adaptogen” characteristics. For example, the unique triterpenoid component (Ganoderma Acid) contained in Ganoderma lucidum and the rich organic germanium make it an “adaptogen” that is coveted by the medical community. “The role is sought after. Also, some traditional Chinese medicines, such as ginseng or their extracts, have adaptogenic effects.
In addition, some medicinal and food ingredients are adaptable plants, such as citrus, licorice, cordyceps, turmeric, etc. They often contain adaptogenic substances such as terpenes, flavonoids, and polyphenols, which can calm the human central nervous system. Studies have also confirmed that they have the effects of reducing stress, eliminating fatigue, and anti-aging.
Best Types Of Adaptogens List On Nutri Avenue
Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) was the first adaptogenic plant to be highlighted internationally. Currently, the popular adaptogenic ingredients on the market are as follows.
- Ashwagandha
- Ginseng extract, like Asian Ginseng Extract, etc.
- Holy basil extract
- Astragalus extract
- Licorice Root Extract
- Rhodiola rosea extract
- Schisandra chinensis extract
- Mushroom extract, like Cordyceps, Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake mushrooms extracts, etc.
- Turmeric extract
- Maca extract
- Lemon balm extract
- etc.
These ingredients are basically already found in a variety of adaptogen-finished products. Next, Nutri Avenue will classify adaptogen ingredients according to different functions to help products quickly select the most suitable ingredients.
Adaptogens For Anxiety/Stress
Ashwagandha powder is commonly known as Indian ginseng extract. This ingredient effects on cortisol, stress tolerance, and internal stress responses. In humans, a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial of 64 subjects found that ashwagandha extract was safe and effective in increasing an individual’s resistance to stress, thereby improving self-rated quality of life.
Ginseng extract is a well-known adaptogen. In humans, ginseng has successfully improved feelings of calmness and certain aspects of working memory performance in healthy young adults. Many people consider Panax ginseng to be the most effective. A study found in 2018 shows that both American and Asian ginseng may be viable ways for fatigue in people with chronic conditions. Another study observed that this herb reduces ulcer index, adrenal gland weight, blood sugar levels, triglycerides, creatine kinase (an enzyme that signals stress- or injury-related damage to the circulatory system and other parts of the body), and another stress-related hormone called serum corticosterone. Scientists concluded that it has significant anti-stress properties.
Holy basil extract is also known as Tulsi. It is known as a powerful anti-aging supplement in India. One of the reasons holy basil extract is so effective at improving stress responses is because of the presence of three phytochemicals. First of all, Ocimumosides A and B have been identified as anti-stress compounds. They may lower corticosterone (another stress hormone) in the blood and produce positive changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter systems. A third, 4-allyl-1-O-beta-D-glucopyronosyl-2-hydroxybenzo, could also reduce pressure parameters in laboratory studies. Meanwhile, there’s also evidence that holy basil may help prevent the recurrence of canker sores, a disease thought to be caused by stress, as well as other types of ulcers, such as stomach ulcers.
Research shows that Astragalus is rich in polysaccharides, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, and other protective chemicals. Therefore, Astragalus extract can potentially treat various conditions, including many that affect the immune system.
In human volunteers, licorice root supplementation helped regulate stress-related hormone levels, including cortisol. One potential outcome is this adaptogenic herb’s observed effect in helping prevent ulcers.
Research shows that Rhodiola Rosea Extract provides a biological defense against stress like other adaptogens. A roundworm study shows that it acts as a mild stressor when ingested, allowing the organism to enhance its stress defenses. It is similar to the way Astragalus works. Meanwhile, a human trial tested the effects of rhodiola on people “suffering from stress-related fatigue.” Researchers have found that repeated doses of rhodiola have anti-fatigue effects. It improves mental performance, particularly the ability to concentrate, and reduces the cortisol response to arousal stress in patients with fatigue syndrome.
In 2012, saliva testing in human subjects found that administering rhodiola rosea to individuals resulted in a small reduction in cortisol and a significant reduction in acute stress caused by “short periods of vigorous physical activity in sedentary individuals.” Moreover, rhodiola rarely interacts with medications or causes serious side effects.
Cordyceps, reishi, shiitake, and maitake mushrooms extracts, are fungi with antioxidant properties. For example, a 2006 trial involving a powdered cordyceps supplement found that the supplement better regulated cortisol levels after exercise-induced stress in sedentary adult men and had anti-fatigue properties. Another human trial found that in subjects recovering from exercise fatigue, men and women who took cordyceps extract had lower cortisol levels over time compared to placebo.
Schisandra Chinensis, also known as magnolia berry, is a medicinal berry. Research shows that Schisandra positively affects nitric oxide and cortisol levels in the blood and saliva. In animal studies, it has also been shown to help alter responses to stress by inhibiting the increase in phosphorylated stress-activated protein kinase. It causes inflammation.
Turmeric root is a plant. Curcumin powder is the active ingredient in Turmeric. Some studies suggest that curcumin affects neurotransmitter function through brain-derived neurotrophic factors. It may be effective in reducing symptoms of depression.
Adaptogens And Nootropics
In recent years, researchers worldwide have studied the effects of holy basil on the body. In January 2015, the study in humans tested the supposed cognitive-enhancing benefits of holy basil extract. Researchers found improvements in reaction times and error rates compared with placebo.
A 2020 study found that Ashwagandha has neuroprotective effects and may buffer against various brain diseases.
Curcumin has been shown to help reverse amyloid pathology and associated neurotoxicity. It can lead to neurological disorders related to chronic inflammation, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Adaptogens For Energy/Sports Performance
Licorice Root Extract can increase energy and endurance.
Schisandra extract can help improve endurance and mental performance. It also supports the concentration of attention, memory, and mental energy.
Ginseng Extract enhances energy production by cells. It supports users’ ability to gain motivation through exercise and enhance fitness performance. For example, Dong Quai, also known as ginseng, helps relieve PMS symptoms and menopause. It is great for women who have difficulty exercising but want to keep exercising during their menstrual period.
In the 1980s, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations recommended the planting of Maca in countries around the world. In the United States, Japan, and Europe, experts recommend Maca extract supplements consumption to athletes to help them recover quickly.
Adaptive herbs, such as Rhodiola Rosea Extract, can improve overall physical function and reduce mental fatigue. It reduces reaction time and helps you stay sharp during more challenging workouts.
Cordyceps Extract enhances the body’s ability to produce adenosine triphosphate. This substance can provide power in the Spin-level speed range. It is great for those high-intensity workouts and long runs. Additionally, research shows that cordyceps increases blood flow, helps the body use oxygen more efficiently, and stimulates the body to push beyond its limits. Cordyceps is often paired with Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, or Astragalus in pre-workout formulas on the market.
Potential benefits of Reishi Mushroom Extract include aiding muscle recovery and body composition changes. It is particularly beneficial for endurance athletes, protecting from overtraining and physical stress.
Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties have reduced delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Therefore, Ginger Extract is also a great adaptogen to enhance athletic performance and energy.
Adaptogens For Skin
Schisandra Chinensis Extract is an antioxidant, oil control, anti-seborrheic, and skin conditioner. This extract helps retain moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines, enhancing skin radiance. Additionally, it improves the shine and thickness of your hair. According to a report by Global Market Insights, the Schisandra chinensis adaptogen market share is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.5% by 2032.
Fungal ingredients represented by mushrooms, including Ganoderma lucidum and Cordyceps sinensis, are also gradually penetrating the beauty and skincare market. Because mushroom metabolites can help fight free radicals. It helps inhibit melanin production. At the same time, it is rich in vitamin D, which prevents skin damage and aging.
Moringa Leaf Extract has skin-purifying properties.
Adaptogens For Weight Loss
Curcumin powder has anti-inflammatory properties. It effectively inhibits the processes that lead to obesity.
Maca Extract is a Peruvian tree root known for its stimulating effects. This extract supplement is most often touted for its libido-enhancing properties. However, this stimulation also helps with metabolism and weight. Animal studies show that supplementing with maca can lead to weight loss. Experiments tested lower and higher doses of maca. Mean weight loss was 8.6% and 14.3%, respectively.
Adaptogens For Sleep
Reishi Mushrooms are known for improving sleep and supporting a healthy immune system.
Lemon Balm Extract is a calming herb extract. It helps with insomnia and anxiety.
Conclusion
Adaptogens refer to herbs, roots, and mushrooms. These help the mind and body cope with daily stress. Regardless of their plant form, they are collectively known as adaptogenic herbs or simply adaptogens. This group of ingredients is best suited to support normal levels of the stress hormone cortisol to help balance the physiological response to stress.
Based on the existing adaptogen products on the market and their main promotion directions, Nutri Avenue has summarized the six major types of adaptogen, like for anxiety, energy, skin, weight loss, etc., and their related ingredients, like mushroom extract, Ashwagandha powder, Maca extract, Rhodiola Rosea, etc. If you want to know more, please contact our sales team.
