What is an Adaptogen?

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.

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