What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are plant or fungal compounds that — according to traditional use and emerging research — help the body respond to and recover from physical and mental stress. To qualify as an adaptogen, a compound must: 1) be non-toxic at normal doses, 2) produce a nonspecific resistance to stress, and 3) normalize physiological function regardless of the direction of stress. Functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, and Cordyceps are classified as adaptogens. Lion's Mane doesn't fit the classic adaptogen definition — it's more accurately a nootropic mushroom.