Adaptogens are a class of intelligent herbs that help the body defend against stress, maintain balance and improve overall well-being. The exceptional properties of these plants enable them to adapt their function based on whatever the individual needs, restoring the body to a state of homeostasis (equilibrium). Instead of providing ‘fake’ energy surges, the way sugar or coffee does, adaptogens work to improve the health of your internal energy system. Interestingly, they work bi-directionally - meaning they can work to either provide an energy boost if you’re feeling flat and lethargic or slow the body down, offering a calming effect if you’re anxious and frazzled.

In a testament to their ability to combat stress, many adaptogenic plants survived the Ice Age and often grew (and still do) in some of the harshest conditions around the world. They’ve evolved to be resilient under stress and thrive in the face of it - something they can help us with!

For thousands of years, traditional medicine has revered and utilized herbs. Ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic texts reference adaptogenic herbs, which improve health, endurance, and longevity. Modern science is now validating this ancient wisdom. In the 1940s, Soviet scientist Nikolai Lazarev partnered with pharmacologist Israel Brekhman to find the most potent substances to enhance performance, prevent illness, and strengthen the mind and body. Lazarev and Brekhman conducted over 3,000 clinical trials on adaptogenic flora and fungi, which provided the first scientific evidence of the profound properties of these plants and led to the definition of Adaptogens.