The short answer
Adaptogens are herbs and mushrooms traditionally used to help the body handle stress. The most common are ashwagandha, rhodiola, holy basil, ginseng, schisandra and reishi. Research is early and mixed for most of them; ashwagandha has the most.What "adaptogen" means
The word describes plants traditionally believed to help the body adapt to stress. It's not a medical category, and products vary widely in what and how much they contain.
The common ones
- Ashwagandha. From Ayurvedic tradition. The most studied adaptogen; some small trials suggest it may reduce perceived stress. More on ashwagandha.
- Rhodiola. A cold-climate root, traditionally used for fatigue. Evidence is limited.
- Holy basil (tulsi). Common in teas. Limited research.
- Ginseng. Asian and American ginseng are widely used; research on stress is mixed.
- Schisandra. A berry used in traditional Chinese medicine. Limited research.
- Reishi. A mushroom popular in drinks and powders. Limited research.
Safety notes
Adaptogens can interact with medications, including thyroid, blood pressure and diabetes medicines, sedatives and immune-suppressing drugs. Skip them during pregnancy unless your doctor says otherwise.
In a drink
Adaptogen drinks usually contain small amounts. See our best adaptogen drinks if you want to try them that way.
Questions people ask
What are adaptogens?
Herbs and mushrooms traditionally used to help the body handle stress, like ashwagandha, rhodiola and reishi.
Do adaptogens work?
Research is early and mixed. Ashwagandha has the most evidence, mostly from small studies.