Adaptogens are herbs which appear to increase the body's ability to adapt to stress and changing situations. People have been consuming adaptogens for years, especially in Asia, and in the 1940s, Western scientists began studying these substances to learn more about them. The exact mechanism through which an adaptogen works is unclear so far, as it seems to be caused by an interaction of numerous chemical compounds. Numerous health food stores sell adaptogens in pure form, along with tonics, restoratives, tinctures, and blends which contain these interesting botanical ingredients.

In order to be considered an adaptogen, an herb must have three traits. It must be nontoxic to the user, at least in any reasonable amount. It must also generate a nonspecific response, meaning that it does not target a specific region of the body, but rather benefits the body as a whole. In addition, adaptogens must help to create a state of balance or normalization in the patient, restoring the natural homeostasis of his or her body. In addition to helping your body adapt to stress, adaptogens also appear to be good for you; many of them are high in antioxidants, for example, which can help fight heart disease.

These compounds have been used to treat fatigue, stress, and anxiety for thousands of years. Adaptogens were included in numerous tonics and drinks before people really understood how they worked; many European folk remedies, for example, contain licorice, a known adaptogen. In Asia, many people have consumed ginseng for thousands of years as a daily tonic, and Native Americans consume their own ginseng species.

Herbalists may prescribe the use of an adaptogen as part of a daily regimen of herbs to help keep a patient health, stable, and happy. These herbs may also be prescribed to treat specific conditions related to stress, and they may be combined with other herbs or compounds for a desired effect. Natural remedies for depression, tension, stress, or anxiety often include adaptogens, as you will find if you look closely at an ingredient list for many traditional home remedies for these problems.

While an adaptogen can be a good way to treat imbalances in the body, they are not a cure-all, and they should also be used under the supervision of an herbalists. Herbalists have studied their field extensively, and they will take the time to learn more about your specific circumstances to create an ideal herbal prescription. If you do decide to add adaptogens and other herbal supplements to your diet, you should talk them over with your doctor, especially if you are taking prescription drugs.