Feeling Stressed? Here’s Why Adaptogens Are Gaining Popularity

Stress has become a common part of everyday life, from demanding work schedules to constant digital stimulation.

If you’re looking for natural ways to support stress and wellbeing, you may have come across adaptogens.

Adaptogens are increasingly popular in the UK as a plant-based approach to supporting the body’s stress response, helping you feel more balanced, focused and calm.

But which adaptogens are worth considering?

What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are natural compounds found in certain plants and mushrooms that may help the body adapt to physical, mental and emotional stress. They are thought to support the body’s stress-response system, particularly the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), which regulates cortisol and overall balance (Panossian & Wikman, 2010).

Unlike stimulants or sedatives, adaptogens work more subtly, by helping to restore balance rather than force a specific effect.

The Best Adaptogens for Stress

Here are some of the most widely used and researched adaptogens for stress support.

Ashwagandha Best for Stress and Calm

Best for: Daily stress, anxiety support, feeling overwhelmed

Ashwagandha is one of the most studied adaptogens and is commonly used to:

• Support the body’s stress response
• Reduce perceived stress levels
• Promote a sense of calm

Clinical research has shown it may help reduce stress and cortisol levels (Chandrasekhar et al., 2012).

It is a great starting point if you’re new to adaptogens.

Reishi Mushroom Best for Relaxation and Balance

Best for: Evening use, winding down, long-term balance

Reishi has been used traditionally to support:

• Calm and relaxation
• Immune balance
• Overall wellbeing

It’s often described as a “grounding” adaptogen, making it ideal for later in the day (Boh et al., 2007).

Rhodiola Rosea Best for Stress and Fatigue

Best for: Stress-related fatigue, mental performance

Rhodiola is commonly used to:

• Support energy during stress
• Reduce fatigue
• Improve mental performance under pressure

It may be particularly helpful during busy or demanding periods (Olsson et al., 2009).

Panax Ginseng Best for Energy and Resilience

Best for: Low energy, burnout, mental fatigue

Panax ginseng has been traditionally used to:

• Support energy levels
• Enhance resilience to stress
• Improve cognitive performance (Reay et al., 2010)

Lion’s Mane Best for Focus Under Stress

Best for: Brain fog, focus, cognitive clarity

Lion’s Mane is studied for its potential role in:

• Supporting cognitive function
• Promoting nerve growth factor (NGF)
• Supporting mental clarity (Ryu et al., 2021)

Schisandra Berry Best for Overall Stress Resilience

Best for: Long-term balance and resilience

Schisandra has traditionally been used to:

• Support stress resilience
• Promote endurance
• Help maintain balance (Panossian & Wikman, 2008)

Maca Root Best for Energy and Endurance

Best for: Physical energy, stamina, daily support

Maca is commonly associated with:

• Supporting energy and endurance
• Helping maintain overall wellbeing (Gonzales, 2012)

How to Choose the Right Adaptogen for You

The best adaptogen depends on how stress shows up for you.

Choose based on your needs:

• Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Ashwagandha, Reishi
• Feeling tired or burnt out? Rhodiola, Ginseng, Maca
• Struggling with focus? Lion’s Mane
• Looking for all-round support? A blend of adaptogens

Combination formulas are often more effective for supporting multiple aspects of stress.

A Smarter Way to Use Adaptogens

Rather than taking a single adaptogen occasionally, consistency is key.

Morning: Support Energy and Focus

A blend like our Organic Daily Balance includes:

• Ashwagandha
• Panax Ginseng
• Maca
• Schisandra Berries

This combination helps support:

• Balanced energy
• Focus and clarity
• Resilience throughout the day

Afternoon/Evening: Support Calm and Wind Down

A blend like our Organic Mushroom & Cacao includes:

• Reishi
• Lion’s Mane
• Organic Cacao

This may help:

• Promote calm without sedation
• Support focus without overstimulation
• Help you unwind more naturally

Do Adaptogens Really Work?

Some adaptogens have been studied for their effects on stress, fatigue and cognitive function.

Research suggests they may:

• Support the body’s stress response
• Help reduce fatigue
• Improve mental performance under stress

However, results vary and they are most effective when used consistently over time.

Are Adaptogens Safe in the UK?

Adaptogens are generally considered safe when used appropriately.

As with any supplement:

• Follow product guidance
• Avoid excessive intake
• Consult a professional if needed

Adaptogens are widely available in the UK as part of the growing interest in natural wellbeing and stress support.

Natural Support for Stress

If you’re looking for a natural way to support stress, adaptogens can be a simple and effective addition to your routine.

Whether you need:

• Calm and balance
• Energy and resilience
• Focus and clarity

There’s likely an adaptogen or a combination that can support your needs.

FAQs

Daisy Buckingham ANutr, Registered Associate Nutritionist

These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have a medical condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional before use.