adaptogen

noun

adap·​to·​gen ə-ˈdap-tə-jən 

: a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body's ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning

adaptogenic

ə-ˌdap-tə-ˈje-nik 

adjective

Examples of adaptogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The point of taking adaptogens is to feel calm — but Thomason notes that for some, there may be some contradictory side effects. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 18 May 2024

Mary Ruth’s proprietary botanical blend incorporates elderberry, goji berry, ashwagandha, and maca, offering a blend of herbal supplements and adaptogens. —Anne Cook Carroll, Verywell Health, 15 May 2024

This supplement contains six adaptogens and herbs that have been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries to support mood, the way the body handles stress, increasing energy, and hormone balance. —Lainey Younkin, Ms, Rd, Parents, 15 May 2024

As an adaptogen, it is frequently utilized to bring down pressure and adjust chemicals. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 6 Jan. 2024

The drinks boasts health beneficial ingredients like organic teas, fruit extracts, antioxidants, adaptogens, and nootropics like passion flower & lion’s mane extract. —Jasmine Browley, Essence, 11 Mar. 2024

Unlike other chocolates enhanced with mushroom adaptogens that tease dramatic benefits, Azul’s effects won’t be difficult to perceive. —Meghan McCarron, Bon Appétit, 24 Jan. 2024

Members get to sample a rotating assortment of four flavors infused with herbs and adaptogens and have exclusive access to preview the brand’s new releases. —Kate Kassin, Bon Appétit, 21 Nov. 2023

By combining these two adaptogens with magnesium, KORESELECT has created a supplement that can help support a balanced and healthy lifestyle. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 25 July 2023

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Russian, from adaptatsiya adaptation + -o- -o- + -gen -gen

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

adaptogen

noun

adap·​to·​gen ə-ˈdap-tə-jən 

: a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body's ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning

Fortunately, a class of herbs known in herbal medicine as adaptogens can provide an added boost of vitality and increase the body's ability to adapt to common stresses.

—James Bailey, Yoga Journal,

adaptogenic

ə-ˌdap-tə-ˈje-nik 

adjective

… adaptogenic herbs like ginseng and milk thistle, which can help build stress resistance.

—Barb Berggoetz, The Indianapolis (Indiana) Star