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

Contrary to popular belief, adaptogens cannot get rid of stress. —Valeriya Chupinina, StyleCaster, 17 July 2024

This Source Naturals supplement has adaptogens eleutherococcus and astragalus that naturally help lower stress levels. —Carly Monardo, Bon Appétit, 8 Oct. 2024

Other energy supplements may contain adaptogens or herbal ingredients, like ginseng or ashwagandha. —Isabel Vasquez Rd Ldn, Verywell Health, 13 Sep. 2024

Many include adaptogens, herbs that are marketed as having specific health and cognitive benefits, while others include substances such as THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, for their mood-altering properties. —Ece Yildirim, CNBC, 17 Aug. 2024

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