Adaptogens for stress: what are they and how are they used?

Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to physical, emotional and mental stress. They come from herbs and roots traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, and have gained prominence in the last decade thanks to scientific support and their growing presence in functional nutrition.

Adaptogens are considered to be those plants or compounds that meet three conditions:

1. They are not toxic in normal doses.

2. They produce a normalizing effect on the body, especially on the nervous and hormonal systems.

3. They increase the body's resistance to stress, without causing a state of overexcitement or dependence.

When we are subjected to chronic stress, the body constantly elevates cortisol levels, the so-called “stress hormone”. This continued excess can cause:

• Mental and physical fatigue

• Irritability

• Sleep problems

• Anxiety or even mild depressive symptoms

• Diminished immune system/p>

Adaptogens act on the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, modulating the stress response and helping the body return to a state of equilibrium or “homeostasis”. Unlike other supplements, no sedatives, but promote better management of mental and emotional energy .

Here are some of the best known and most studied adaptogens for stress management and emotional well-being:

One of the most potent adaptogens supported by scientific evidence. Ashwagandha helps reduce cortisol levels, improve sleep quality and combat mild anxiety. Its effect on mood enhancement has also been studied.

Ideal to combat mental fatigue and improve physical endurance. Regulates stress response without producing drowsiness.

Especially Asian ginseng or Panax ginseng. It improves concentration, memory and tolerance to physical and mental effort, although it may be too stimulating for some sensitive people.

Also known as Siberian ginseng. It improves overall stamina and has been used to reduce the impact of prolonged stress.

The scientific community has paid increasing attention to adaptogens in recent decades. Clinical studies have shown that extracts such as ashwagandha or rhodiola can:

• Reduce blood cortisol levels.

• Improve parameters of mild and moderate anxiety.

• Decrease chronic fatigue

• Promote concentration and mental clarity

Although they are not drugs and are not a substitute for clinical treatment of serious disorders, their use as natural supplement for stress and prevention of emotional exhaustion is increasingly supported.

Some adaptogens, especially ashwagandha and rhodiola, have also shown positive effects on mood, as they can influence neurotransmitters such as thedopamine and serotonin.

This makes them an interesting option for people who are not clinically depressed, but have an emotional condition linked to stress, fatigue or lack of motivation.

*It is important to emphasize that the adaptogens are not a substitute for psychological or pharmacological treatments , but can be natural allies in emotional improvement processes when integrated into a complete self-care approach.

• Constancia: adaptogens do not act immediately. It is recommended to take them for at least 3-4 weeks to notice real benefits.

• Avoid excessive combinations: do not mix too many adaptogens without professional guidance.

• Time of day: some are better tolerated in the morning (such as rhodiola) and others are more suitable at the end of the day (such as ashwagandha).

• Extract quality: it is essential to use standardized extracts, with guaranteed concentration of active ingredients.

At ZZEN Labs we develop our formulas from a realistic approach, based on science and respect for the body.ZZEN Calm Ashwagandha has been designed as a natural and effective support for those seeking to manage stress without resorting to aggressive solutions or sedatives.

• 450 mg pure Ashwagandha root extract (standardized to 10% withanolides): one of the highest concentrations on the market, effective in reducing cortisol, promoting adaptation to stress and improving emotional balance.

• 240 mg of dried extract of Passionflower: plant traditionally used for its anxiolytic and mild relaxing properties, ideal to complete the calming effect without generating drowsiness during the day.

A minimalist, clean and sustainable results-oriented formula. No caffeine. No sedation. Just real calm.

It can be taken once a day, preferably in the afternoon or at the end of the day, as part of a routine that combines emotional well-being and mental rest.