Adaptogens are plant-based substances, such as herbs and mushrooms, that can help your body manage physical and mental stress, reduce the negative effects of anxiety and help you to maintain balance. They play a pivotal role in bolstering your body's capacity to manage stress and facilitate a return to a balanced state. Adaptogenic supplements come in many forms; you can take them as capsules, add them to food and drinks, and take them as tinctures. Some examples of adaptogens include ashwagandha, ginseng, rhodiola and mushrooms like cordyceps and reishi.

Typically, adaptogens can be incorporated into your routine at various points during the day and for different durations. Certain adaptogenic supplements might yield better results when consumed in the morning or prior to physical activity, while others might require several weeks to have any real effect. Often, adaptogenic supplements are utilised for brief intervals, such as assisting with stress reduction during a hectic work phase. Adaptogens tend to exhibit their most potent effects over shorter periods; extended usage might lead to your body developing a resistance to their benefits over time.

Adaptogens usually take about two to three weeks before their effects become noticeable in the body, with some effects taking even longer. For example, research suggests that using ashwagandha consistently for 8 weeks can improve cognitive function and working memory recall. Unlike fast-acting medications, adaptogens need time to build up in the body. While they work well in the short term, using them for too long might make them less effective over time.

Yes, adaptogenic supplements do help with stress. This is, in fact, one of their main benefits. In addition to their stress reducing capabilities, natural adaptogens are capable of regulating cortisol levels, countering fatigue, improving concentration and cognitive function, mitigating feelings of depression and anxiety and contributing to overall wellbeing more generally.