Adaptogen — herbalism term · PlantSage glossary
Adaptogen defined
— Herbs that modulate stress response.
The definition
Non-toxic plants that help the body resist physical, chemical, and biological stressors by normalising physiological function. The term was coined in 1947 by Soviet pharmacologist Nikolai Lazarev and refined to require three criteria: safety, non-specific resistance, and a normalising effect regardless of the direction of stress.
Modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, regulate cortisol, and influence neurotransmitters and immune function. Effects are typically gradual — measured over weeks, not minutes.
Example plants
Classic species in this category from the PlantSage archive.
Related wellness goals
Common conditions where adaptogen plants are indicated.
See also
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