Adaptogens are a class of herbs, mushrooms, and minerals that help protect the body from stress-induced dysfunction. Adaptogens must meet certain criteria, including (but not limited to): relatively non-toxic, work through the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary/adrenal axis), and SAS (sympathoadrenal system), and regulate organs and system function. Current research also suggests that adaptogens work on a cellular level, acting like a “stress vaccine,” increasing our cells’ ability to respond to stress.
