Herbals & Adaptogens

Adaptogens are a category of herbs and roots — like ashwagandha, rhodiola and shilajit — traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other herbal medicine systems to help the body maintain balance when it's under everyday stress. The term describes how they're used rather than a single active compound, so different adaptogens can feel quite different from one another.

Both are traditional botanicals, but they come from different branches of the plant and fungal kingdoms. Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola) are typically root or leaf extracts, while functional mushrooms (reishi, chaga, shiitake) are fruiting-body or mycelium extracts. Many people use them alongside each other as complementary parts of a daily routine.

This varies by product, so always start with the label on the specific item you've chosen. As a general pattern, energising adaptogens (like rhodiola) are often taken earlier in the day, while calming ones (like reishi or ashwagandha) are more commonly taken in the evening. Taking capsules with food can help reduce stomach sensitivity for some people.

Herbal adaptogens are generally taken as part of a consistent daily routine rather than for an immediate effect. Many people take them for several weeks before assessing how they feel. If you don't notice a difference after a reasonable trial period, that's worth discussing with a healthcare professional.

Some people do combine a couple of botanicals — for example an adaptogenic root alongside a functional mushroom — but it's best to introduce one new product at a time so you can tell what's doing what, and to check with a pharmacist or doctor if you take other medication or supplements regularly.

These products aren't intended for children, and anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding, managing a medical condition, or taking prescription medication should speak with a doctor before starting any new herbal supplement. This page is for general information only and isn't a substitute for medical advice.

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