Ultimate List of Adaptogens: 26 Stress-Busters, 10 Best-in-Class

Adaptogens are a special class of herbs and natural substances that help the body adapt to stress, restore balance, and build stronger resilience -- physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

Unlike stimulants or sedatives, adaptogens work by supporting the body’s stress response systems, especially the adrenal glands and HPA axis, to promote homeostasis: a state of balanced and healthy function.

Adaptogens have been used for centuries in traditional wellness systems like Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese health practices, and Russian herbalism, and are now widely recognized for their myriad healthy performance-enhancing benefits.

In this article, we list the most effective adaptogens, highlighting their unique benefits and how they can support energy, focus, mood, immunity and vitality. Let's get to it!

What is an Adaptogen?

Adaptogens are natural substances (usually herbs or mushrooms) that help the body adapt to stress and restore balance.

The idea of adaptogens was first introduced in the 1950s by Russian scientist Nikolay Lazarev, who described them as substances that increase the body’s general resistance to stress, no matter where the stress comes from.

Later, another Soviet researcher, Dr. Israel Brekhman, added that for a substance to be called an adaptogen, it should meet three key criteria:(1)

1. Safe and non-toxic when used over time.
2. Help the body adapt to all types of stress, including physical, emotional, environmental.
3. Balance and normalize body functions no matter which direction they’re off (too high or too low).

In simple terms, adaptogens help your body stay steady when stressors try to throw it off balance.

Adaptogens support body systems like the nervous system, endocrine system (which regulates hormones), and immune system, especially under long-term stress.

And as it turns out, promoting overall physiological balance can help many different human body systems and unlock many different benefits. Let's now take a look at the benefits associated with taking adaptogens.

Cognitive (Nootropic) Benefits:

• Enhance mental clarity and focus
• Improve memory and cognitive function
• Reduce mental fatigue and brain fog
• Help to ease anxiety and stress-induced cognitive decline
• Promote emotional stability and mental resilience

Learn more about what nootropics are and how nootropics work

Physical Benefits:

• Increase endurance performance and stamina
• Help with chronic fatigue and acute physical exhaustion
• Support immune system function and boost immunity
• Help the body adapt to physical stress and environmental stressors
• Regulate blood sugar and enhance metabolism
• Help maintain blood pressure in normal range
• Help to provide relief from menopausal symptoms

Energy and Vitality:

• Boost overall energy levels, vitality and physical stress
• Reduce fatigue, especially stress-induced fatigue
• Help with recovery from physical or emotional stress
  
• Support adrenal function, providing stress relief

Other Benefits:

• Regulate cortisol and other stress hormones
• Support cardiovascular health and blood circulation
• Improve sleep quality and fight stress-related sleep disorders

Learn more about top natural sleep supplements

How Do Adaptogens Work?

Adaptogens help the body respond to stress by supporting the body's natural stress-response systems.

Unlike stimulants that temporarily increase energy or sedatives that calm the body, adaptogens work more holistically by promoting balance in the body's systems.

Their primary function is to modulate how the human body manages stress, helping it to react in a more healthy and balanced way to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. 

At the core of an adaptogen’s anti-stress action is its ability to interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA Axis).

The HPA Axis is responsible for regulating the body's stress response through the release of stress hormones like cortisol.

By balancing cortisol levels, adaptogens help block the overproduction of stress hormones, which can cause all sorts of negative effects on the body over time. For example, prolonged high cortisol levels can lead to fatigue, anxiety, and immune suppression. 

Adaptogens regulate cortisol, helping the body remain resilient during stressful situations without being overwhelmed by stress hormones.(2) 

In addition to balancing cortisol, adaptogens may work by:

• Influencing other physiological systems, such as the nervous system and the endocrine system;
• Modulating neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which play a crucial role in mood, cognitive function, and emotional stability;
• Supplying compounds like flavonoids and polysaccharides that help to regulate immune function and protect cells from oxidative stress.

The key takeaway: Adaptogens work holistically by helping the body adapt to various stressors, both physical and mental, promoting balance and well-being. This can have far-reaching benefits for daily performance and overall health.

The Big Adaptogens List

While many herbs are marketed as adaptogens, only some tick off the three criteria and meet the true definition of an adaptogen.

A genuine adaptogen must help the whole body resist stress in a non-specific, overall way -- not just help one issue -- and must be shown to be safe for long-term use.

There is some disagreement in herbalism and scientific communities on what should be included on the adaptogenic herbs list.

So we'll start with an extensive (but concise) list of every herb that has been considered an adaptogen to give you the big picture and then follow up with a deeper dive into the "best in class" adaptogens. Here's the big list of adaptogens:

• Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root): Supports stress resistance and enhances physical and mental endurance under pressure.

• Panax ginseng (Asian Ginseng): A foundational adaptogen in Chinese herbalism, known for boosting energy, immune function, and overall vitality.

• Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng): Technically not a true ginseng but valued for improving stamina and mental performance during stress.

• Schisandra chinensis (Chinese Magnolia Vine): A traditional Chinese berry that may enhance mental clarity and help regulate stress responses.

• Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A cornerstone of Ayurveda, used to reduce anxiety, support immune health, and restore energy balance.

• Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi): Potent adaptogen that's among the best nootropics, linked to memory, learning, and higher cognitive function in Ayurvedic practice.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi): Revered in Ayurveda for its adaptogenic, antioxidant, and immune-modulating properties.

• Cordyceps: An energy-enhancing mushroom known for reducing fatigue and supporting stamina.

• Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Traditionally used to balance cortisol levels and support adrenal function during stress.

• Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus): An immune modulator herb that may also help combat fatigue and increase resilience.

• Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii): Peruvian adaptogen traditionally used to enhance stamina, balance hormones, boost sex drive (possibly helping with erectile dysfunction) and stress resistance.

• Ashitaba (Angelica keiskei): Traditional Japanese adaptogen prized for its ability to support cellular regeneration, enhance energy, and stress responses.

• Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum): "Southern Ginseng" adaptogen in traditional Chinese herbalism. Associated with cardiovascular and metabolic health.

• Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica): Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese herbalism for mental clarity, stress reduction, and nervous system support.
  

• Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Adaptogenic mushroom in traditional Chinese herbalism for immune function and overall longevity and vitality.

• Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus): Used in Siberian and Russian herbalism for stress resistance, immune health and cellular protection.

• Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa): Maitake is an adaptogenic mushroom traditionally used in Japanese and Chinese wellness.

• Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus): Nootropic mushroom for supporting cognitive resilience, nerve regeneration and overall brain health.

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Rich in curcumin, known for its ability to regulate inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
  

• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Sometimes classified as an adaptogen, though it is more widely known as an immune-modulating herb than a classic adaptogen.
  

• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Adaptogen in Ayurvedic wellness noted for supporting female reproductive health, vitality, and hormonal balance.

• Tienchi Ginseng (Panax notoginseng): Chinese adaptogen known for promoting mind-body resilience, circulation and recovery from physical trauma or fatigue.

• Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Gentle adaptogen helps the body cope with stress by calming the nervous system, promoting relaxation and sleep. 

• Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa): Used in Traditional Chinese herbalism, it's often associated with kidney health and may help with stress adaptation over time.

• Rhaponticum carthamoides (Maral Root or Russian Leuzea): Similar to Siberian Ginseng, it's used in Eastern European for energy, stamina, and mental performance.

• Shilajit: A mineral-rich resin from the Himalayas, traditionally used in Ayurveda for energy, rejuvenation, and as a general tonic. It contains fulvic and humic acids.

This list is far-reaching, and may include some "fringe" adaptogens or pseudo-adaptogens. Next let's dig into the most definitive adaptogens, giving more background on each one.

10 Best-in-Class: List of Adaptogens and Benefits

Here are the 10 most agreed-upon and highly regarded adaptogens, based on their proven benefits for stress resistance, physical endurance, cognitive function, and overall vitality.

1. Rhodiola Rosea (Golden Root)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Rhodiola Rosea is a flat-out performance enhancer known for its ability to enhance both physical and mental endurance, reduce fatigue, and fight stress. It is a popular choice for burnout, cognitive fatigue, or exhaustion under pressure. Rhodiola is also prized by athletes and anyone who wants to perform better under challenging conditions.

Rhodiola Rosea grows in harsh, high-altitude environments, such as Arctic and alpine regions, where it endures extreme cold, wind, and limited nutrients. Its ability to thrive in these harsh conditions reflects its adaptogenic benefits for humans.

Just as Rhodiola adapts to survive tough environments, it helps the body adapt to stress -- enhancing resilience, energy, and both mental and physical endurance under pressure.

Rhodiola has been used for centuries in Russian and Scandinavian traditional medicine to support physical performance and mental clarity under challenging conditions. It was even used by Vikings to enhance strength and stamina. In more recent history, it has been used by Russian farmers, workers and Olympic athletes to stay sharp and energized under stress.

Modern research continues to support Rhodiola's role as an adaptogen, particularly in combating fatigue and stress. It has been shown to enhance cognitive function, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and increase stamina during physical exertion.

Rhodiola appears to work by modulating the body’s stress response, balancing neurotransmitter levels like serotonin and dopamine, and increasing cellular energy production, which boosts overall vitality.

2. Panax Ginseng (Asian Ginseng)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Panax Ginseng, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is recognized for boosting energy, increasing physical stamina, enhancing mental clarity, and promoting overall vitality. As a potent adaptogen, Panax Ginseng helps the body cope with physical and emotional stress, helping to optimize the immune system, regulate hormone levels, and promote better overall resilience under stressful conditions.

Panax ginseng has been used for over 2,000 years to boost energy and support overall wellness. It is often considered a symbol of health and longevity.

In TCM, Panax Ginseng is considered a tonic herb that restores balance and vitality by supporting the body’s “qi” (life force).

Beyond its importance in China, ginseng is widely recognized in Korean, Japanese, and Russian herbal practices.

Research has shown that ginseng’s bioactive compounds, known as ginsenosides, influence the body’s stress response and energy metabolism.

This adaptogen herb is commonly used to improve athletic performance, cognitive function, and immune function, especially in people experiencing exhaustion or chronic stress.

Did you know? Korean red ginseng is a steamed and dried form of Panax that is traditionally used in Korean herbalism practices. The steaming process concentrates the herb's active ginsenosides, making it a more potent and premium form with pronounced stimulating effects.

3. Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Siberian Ginseng (sometimes called Eleuthero), often considered a "non-traditional" form of ginseng, is highly regarded for its ability to enhance stamina, mental performance, and overall resistance to stress.

Siberian ginseng is not a "true" ginseng because it lacks ginsenoside biologically active compounds. Compared to Panax Ginseng, Eleutherococcus senticosus is more subtle in its effects, and perhaps more sustainable to use over the long term. However, it still shares similar benefits, such as boosting physical endurance, cognitive function, and immune resilience.

Historically, Siberian Ginseng was used in Russia and Eastern Europe as a tonic for increasing stamina and combating exhaustion.

It was notably used during the Soviet era to support athletes and cosmonauts during physically demanding tasks. Modern studies have confirmed its adaptogenic activity, showing that it enhances the body’s capacity to endure both physical and emotional stress.

Eleuthero is more accessible than Panax ginseng: on average, it is about 50% to 70% cheaper than Panax ginseng extracts. This is partly because eleuthero grows more easily and abundantly, and is quicker to harvest than traditional Panax ginseng.

4. Schisandra Chinensis (Chinese Magnolia Vine)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Schisandra Chinensis (sometimes spelled Schizandra) is prized in traditional Chinese herbalism and Russian herbalism for its ability to enhance mental clarity, reduce fatigue, and support stress resilience. This small red berry herb is also valued for supporting liver health and detoxification.

Schisandra, also known as Schisandra chinensis or the "five-flavor fruit," has been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. The name "five-flavor fruit" reflects its unique blend of tastes -- sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent -- as well as symbolizing its ability to balance and harmonize multiple body systems.

Schisandra has long been used as an adaptogen to promote resilience, reduce stress, and improve both physical and mental performance.

Schisandra's adaptogenic properties are thought to be linked to its ability to regulate neurotransmitters and improve cellular energy production, making it a powerful tool for combating stress-induced fatigue and mental overload.

Learn more about top nootropics for energy

5. Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Ashwagandha is one of the most widely used adaptogens in India's Ayurvedic health system, celebrated for its ability to reduce anxiety, support immune health, and restore energy balance.

Ashwagandha, known as "Indian ginseng," holds significant importance in Ayurvedic medicine, where it has been used for over 3,000 years to restore vitality, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. It has long been associated with strength, vitality, and longevity.

The name "ashwagandha" means "smell of a horse" in Sanskrit, referring to both the herb’s distinctive odor and the traditional belief that it can impart the strength and vitality of a horse.

Ashwagandha is known for its calming effects, which help reduce the mental and physical symptoms of stress while boosting energy and vitality. In herbal traditions, it is administered to restore vitality, fight exhaustion, promote relaxation and support longevity. Modern studies continue to validate its adaptogenic benefits, particularly in supporting overall wellness and stress adaptation.

6. Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Bacopa Monnieri, also known as Brahmi, is an adaptogen noted for its nootropic (cognitive-enhancing) effects. It has a reputation for improving memory, learning, focus and emotional stability, especially under stress -- making it a popular adaptogen choice for students.  

Also known as Brahmi in Ayurveda medicine, Bacopa is traditionally used to enhance memory, cognitive function, and mental clarity. The name "Brahmi" is derived from Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, reflecting its cultural significance as a cognitive enhancer.

Of the many types of adaptogens, Bacopa monnieri is most strongly regarded as a brain-boosting (nootropic) adaptogen.

In Ayurveda, Brahmi is considered a medhya rasayana, or a rejuvenating tonic for the mind, aimed at improving intellect, memory, and overall brain health. This system of wellness has used Bacopa for centuries to improve mental clarity and memory. Modern research backs up some of these claims, showing that Bacopa can enhance cognitive function, reduce stress-induced cognitive decline, and promote mental well-being.

Learn more about Bacopa monnieri as a nootropic adaptogen

7. Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is a revered adaptogen in Ayurvedic herbalism. In addition to helping with stress, Tulsi is associated with supporting a healthy and happy mood, mental performance, blood sugar balance, healthy immune responses and some aspects of cardiovascular health (including potentially helping with high blood pressure). 

Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum), is one of the most important herbs in Ayurvedic wellness.

In Ayurveda, Tulsi has been used for thousands of years to promote overall health, reduce stress, and enhance vitality. Traditionally considered a sacred plant, it is often referred to as "The Incomparable One" and is believed to embody the goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing purity and protection.

Tulsi is valued for its adaptogenic properties. Folk healers have used Holy Basil to assist with a wide range of health concerns, including respiratory issues and digestive problems; however, its most prominent role is as an adaptogen that helps manage stress and improve mental clarity, including benefits for sharp memory function and cognitive flexibility.

Holy Basil may also be a helpful supplement for easing anxiety, balancing mood and enhancing cognition. It is also valued for its antioxidant properties, which support wellness during times of stress and may partly account for additional cardiovascular, blood sugar and immune benefits.

8. Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)

Adaptogenic Benefits: As an adaptogen, Cordyceps enhances physical performance, supports endurance, and promotes mental clarity during stressful conditions. It works by improving cellular energy production, which increases vitality and resilience to physical stress.

Cordyceps is a unique fungus traditionally harvested from high-altitude meadows, particularly in Tibet, Nepal, and China. The most well-known species, Cordyceps sinensis, grows as a parasite on caterpillar larvae.

The fungus infects the caterpillar in its larval stage, eventually growing a fruiting body from the insect’s head. This process gives Cordyceps its unique appearance, often referred to as "winter worm, summer grass," symbolizing its life cycle from the insect (winter worm) to the fungal fruiting body (summer grass).

Cordyceps has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese herbalism to combat fatigue, enhance physical and athletic performance, and support longevity.

Modern research supports its adaptogenic effects, particularly for increasing energy and endurance during high-stress physical activity. As a result, is popular among athletes and bodybuilders and may have some bonus benefits for supporting testosterone.

Learn more about supplements for endurance

9. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Adaptogenic Benefits: Licorice Root helps balance cortisol levels, supports adrenal function, and enhances energy through periods of stress. It may be especially helpful for managing chronic stress and related fatigue.

Due to its versatility and ability to enhance other herbs' beneficial activities, Licorice root, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been a cornerstone in both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda for thousands of years. It is also associated with folk health practices in Assyrian, Egyptian, Greek, Arab and Tibetan cultures.

In TCM in particular, Licorice Root is used in multi-herb preparations and known as "the great harmonizer" because it helps balance the effects of stronger herbs, making them safer and more effective in the overall formula.

As an adaptogen, licorice root has a long-standing reputation for its ability to support the adrenal glands, regulate cortisol response, and help the body manage stress. 

Beyond its adaptogenic activity, licorice root has been traditionally used to help with respiratory concerns (coughing, asthma), and wound healing as well as health concerns related to the liver and arteries.

In the modern supplement world, licorice root is positioned as an herb for helping with stress responses, digestion, respiratory health, and energy levels, as well as being used topically for certain skin issues.

10. Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus)

Adaptogenic Benefits: As an adaptogen, Astragalus helps the body cope with stress by balancing the stress-response systems, including the adrenal glands, which fights fatigue and enhances overall resilience. Astragalus may be most well-known for immune support, which is largely attributed to its adaptogenic bioactivities. 

Astragalus is a highly regarded herb in TCM, where it has been used for over 2,000 years to strengthen the immune system, boost vitality, and enhance the body's resistance to stress.

In Chinese herbal traditions Astragalus is also considered a "superior tonic" that supports longevity and overall wellness.

Astragalus is especially valued for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body recover from fatigue, improve energy levels, and maintain resilience during times of physical or emotional stress. It helps regulate the body’s stress response, enhances energy production, and supports recovery from exhaustion.

Astragalus may be most famous for its immune-boosting properties and potential to enhance the body’s natural defenses. Researchers suggest Astragalus stimulates the production of white blood cells, such as macrophages and T-cells, which are critical in fighting off pathogens.

Its reputation as an immune-supportive adaptogen herb has made Astragalus a popular choice in both traditional and modern herbalism, especially for people looking to strengthen their immunity during times of stress.

Learn more about today's top immune supplements

These 10 herbs are the most researched and highly regarded adaptogens. They are the most widely used in traditional herbalism while also being backed by modern clinical studies supporting their adaptogenic activity.

Best Nootropic Stack With Adaptogens

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Mind Lab Pro® (MLP) Ingredients: Citicoline (CDP Choline) dosage 250mg per serving, Phosphatidylserine (PS) 100mg (from sunflower lecithin), Bacopa monnieri 150mg (standardized extract, 24% bacosides), Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom 500mg (fruit and mycelium), Maritime Pine Bark Extract 75mg (95% proanthocyanidins), N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine 175mg, L-Theanine 100mg per serving, Rhodiola rosea 50mg (3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides), NutriGenesis® Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg), Vitamin B9 (100 mcg), Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg)

Mind Lab Pro® (MLP) is the leading nootropic supplement on the market today. Its 11-in-1 formula includes two best-in-class adaptogens -- Rhodiola rosea and Bacopa monnieri -- as well as another herb sometimes included on adaptogen lists: Lion's Mane Mushroom.

This innovative clean-label formula is designed to optimize six brain pathways for a healthy overall cognitive boost, including support for focus, memory, attention, mood, stress resistance, mental processing speed and more.

Mind Lab Pro is backed by three human clinical trials:

1. MLP® for 30 days was linked to significant improvements (compared to placebo) in information processing speed.(12)
2. MLP® for 30 days improved performance across several different types of memory (versus placebo group), especially immediate and delayed recall memory.(13)
3. MLP® for 60 days was suggested to help the brain's different regions to coordinate more efficiently, potentially helping the brain work more cohesively.(14)

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If you're interested in trying a nootropic stack with natural adaptogens, MLP® is an excellent choice. 

It combines high-quality, scientifically-backed ingredients, including adaptogens Rhodiola rosea, Bacopa monnieri and Lion’s Mane Mushroom, into an ultramodern formula that really works (according to science).

This stack is ideal for those looking to boost all-round cognitive performance while supporting stress resilience at the same time -- unlocking a peak-performing brain-state known as 100% Brainpower.

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Summary

Plant adaptogens are a unique class of herbs and natural substances that help the entire body's ability to manage stress and maintain homeostasis (inner balance).

By supporting the body's stress-response systems, such as the adrenal glands and the HPA axis, adaptogens work holistically to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

These herbs have been used for centuries across various traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, TCM, and Russian herbalism. Today, they are increasingly recognized for their role in modern wellness routines, offering a natural way to build resilience, improve overall vitality and otherwise help the body adapt.

In this article, we given many examples of adaptogens, as well as highlighting what perhaps may be the "Top 10" adaptogens in herbalism. 

We've highlighted their benefits and how they can support energy, cognitive function, mood, immune regulation, and more -- including assisting with generalized anxiety disorder and other mental resistance to chronic stress, as well as fighting physical fatigue induced by internal biological stress and external stressors.

Adaptogens such as Rhodiola Rosea, Panax Ginseng, and Ashwagandha are celebrated for their ability to enhance physical endurance, mental clarity, and emotional resilience under stress.

Additionally, other herbs like Bacopa Monnieri, Holy Basil, and Cordyceps are widely used for their cognitive and energy-boosting properties.

The key takeaway is that adaptogens work by helping the body stay balanced in the face of stress, whether physical, emotional, or environmental. They support various systems in the body, from improving brain function to enhancing immune health and promoting recovery from fatigue.

As our understanding of adaptogens continues to grow, and both animal studies and human research continue to back them, these herbs remain an invaluable part of both traditional and modern wellness practices -- helping us adapt, thrive, and maintain equilibrium amidst the challenges of daily life.