Adaptogens are natural substances, often derived from plants and herbs, that are believed to help the body adapt to stress, enhancing resilience and overall well-being. They work by supporting the body's natural ability to resist and recover from various stressors, whether physical, chemical, or biological.

Common adaptogens include ashwagandha, lion’s mane, cordyceps, ginseng and rhodiola. They are often used in traditional medicine practices and modern wellness routines to help stabilise physiological processes, promote balance in the body's systems, and improve energy and focus.

The concept of adaptogens has roots in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda in India and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For centuries, practitioners used specific herbs and plants like ashwagandha, ginseng, and holy basil to promote vitality and longevity, believing they helped the body build resilience against various stressors.

The modern concept emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily through the work of Soviet scientists. In the 1940s and 1950s, Dr. Nikolai Lazarev coined the term "adaptogen" to describe substances that help the body adapt to stress and maintain homeostasis. His colleague, Dr. Israel Brekhman, expanded on this research, identifying and studying plants like eleuthero (Siberian ginseng) and rhodiola that met the criteria of an adaptogen: enhancing resistance to stress, having a normalising effect on the body, and being non-toxic.

A surprising fact about adaptogens is that some of them, particularly Rhodiola rosea, were extensively studied and utilized by Soviet cosmonauts and elite athletes during the Cold War era. These high-stress professions relied on adaptogens to boost physical and mental performance, improve endurance, and reduce fatigue without the side effects associated with stimulants. This practical application showcases the historical belief in adaptogens' unique properties and their ability to help the body adapt to extreme stressors.