Adaptogens are a group of well researched herbs that have the amazing ability to help the body better "adapt" to the stresses and needs of modern living. The term "Adaptogens" originated from research by Russian Physician, Dr.Brekhman and Professor Nicolai Lazarv. These two Scientists from the Soviet Union were in charge of finding herbs that would help improve factory worker's productivity and also give Soviet athletes a competitive edge. Through their research they were able to pinpoint a special class of herbs for which they called adaptogens.
These herbs were found to help humans better adjust to strains, enhance energy and improve performance, while being non-toxic and safe. There are currently 9 "official" adaptogens and they are considered "Primary Adaptogens."
There are other herbs that show promising adaptogenic properties as well, but more research is still needed to classify them as such. These herbs are often called "Secondary Adaptogens."
The 9 Primary Adaptogens are as follows;
Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera
Cordyceps - Cordyceps sinensis
Eleuthero - Eleutherococcus senticosus
Asian Ginseng - Panax ginseng
American Ginseng - Panax quinquefolius
Holy basil - Ocimum tenuflorum, Ocimum sanctum
Rhodiola - Rhodiola rosea
Schisandra - Schisandra chinensis
Shilajit - Asphaltum bitumen
Secondary Adaptogens are as follows:
Reishi - Ganoderma lucidum
Shatavari - Asparugus racemosus
Amla - Emblica officinalis
Astragalus - Astragalus membranaceus
He Shou Wu - Polygonum multiflorum
Licorice - Glycyrrhiza glabra
Maca - Lepidium meyenii
Codonopsis - Codonopsis pilosula
Jiaogulan - Gynostemma pentaphyllum
Turmeric - Curcuma longa
Guduchi - Tinospora cordifolia
Bacopa - Bacopa monnieri
Devil's Club - Oplopanax horridus
Prince Seng - Pseudostellaria heterophylla
While there are only 9 "official" adaptogens currently, new research is shedding light on other important plants that have may have the same adaptogenic properties, but further research is needed.
Until then, we can still incorporate primary and secondary adaptogens into our daily lives through capsules, tinctures and gummies (like our AdaptDaily - Restore Gummies.)
