adaptogen

Introduction

• something which promotes the body's ability to stabilize itself when exposed to stressful or noxious stimuli.

Notes

• adaptogens are derived from herbs, leaves, & roots of specific plants or from fungi
• most adaptogens are treated like supplements, not medicine, thus need not go through rigorous process of FDA approval
  • they must show that they are not harmful
  • they do no need to show proof of benefit
• scientific research is most abundant for ashwagandha, rhodiola, & ginseng
• Taika is a brand name of adaptogen beverages

More general terms

• pharmaceutical herb; medicinal herb; herbal supplement; botanical

More specific terms

• ashwagandha
• Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng)
• rhodiola rosea; golden root