adaptogen

noun

adap·​to·​gen ə-ˈdap-tə-jən 

: a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body's ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning

adaptogenic

ə-ˌdap-tə-ˈje-nik 

adjective

Examples of adaptogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Still others are looking for collagen, prebiotics, creatine, or adaptogens. —Oisín Hanrahan, Fortune, 28 Jan. 2026

Ingredients like adaptogens ginseng root and chaga mushroom help restore and balance the scalp’s barrier (like a thick cream could help restore your skin’s barrier after using too many active ingredients). —Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 20 Jan. 2026

Purchasing adaptogen drinks or adding adaptogens to a favorite beverage can help with stress and anxiety. —Ashley Olivine, Verywell Health, 20 Jan. 2026

Cygnet Infinity: a version of Cygnet 22 where the alcohol has been distilled out and a symphony of restorative, mood-bolstering adaptogens (notably focus-enhancing lion’s mane) has been added. —Nick Scott, Robb Report, 19 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Russian, from adaptatsiya adaptation + -o- -o- + -gen -gen

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

adaptogen

noun

adap·​to·​gen ə-ˈdap-tə-jən 

: a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body's ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning

Fortunately, a class of herbs known in herbal medicine as adaptogens can provide an added boost of vitality and increase the body's ability to adapt to common stresses.

—James Bailey, Yoga Journal,

adaptogenic

ə-ˌdap-tə-ˈje-nik 

adjective

… adaptogenic herbs like ginseng and milk thistle, which can help build stress resistance.

—Barb Berggoetz, The Indianapolis (Indiana) Star