adaptogen

noun

adap·​to·​gen ə-ˈdap-tə-jən How to pronounce adaptogen (audio)
: 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 adjective

Examples of adaptogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web And while adaptogens have been shown in studies to blunt the effects of stress, more research is needed on other claims—especially since not all adaptogens are created equal, says Atlanta dietitian Marisa Moore. Harper's BAZAAR, 10 Aug. 2023 Featuring four potent adaptogens traditionally used in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Shatavari and Amla), these supplements aim to alleviate the emotional, mental, hormonal and physical manifestations of stress. Natalie Alcala, The Hollywood Reporter, 23 Aug. 2023 It is then also packed with numerous beneficial greens, vegetables, berries, fruits, spices, antioxidants, digestive enzymes, fibres, adaptogens, and essential vitamins and minerals. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 14 Aug. 2023 These are not wines that have been stripped of their alcohol, but rather concoctions of teas, adaptogens, herbs and fruits designed to be winelike in weight, texture and flavor. Dave McIntyre, Washington Post, 10 Aug. 2023 Some are built on a foundation of nonalcoholic spirits; others are more like craft cocktails, relying on botanicals and adaptogens to create unusual-yet-thrilling flavors; or blending of fruits, bitters and everything else good about a cocktail besides booze. Allison Robicelli, Anchorage Daily News, 14 July 2023 This potent blend combines the active compounds of horny goat weed extract, tongkat ali root extract, maca root powder, saw palmetto berry extract, and various adaptogens intended to improve physical strength and endurance while promoting improved concentration. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 14 July 2023 From there, a laundry list of bitters, herbs, botanicals, roots and adaptogens are added to create something that’s best enjoyed slowly and thoughtfully — preferably seaside. Allison Robicelli, Anchorage Daily News, 14 July 2023 The primary ingredients are mushrooms, which contain adaptogens that can help your body better manage stress, improve focus and increase energy levels. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 July 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'adaptogen.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adaptogen was in 1969

Dictionary Entries Near adaptogen

Cite this Entry

“Adaptogen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adaptogen. Accessed 24 Sep. 2023.

Medical Definition

adaptogen

noun
adap·​to·​gen ə-ˈdap-tə-jən How to pronounce adaptogen (audio)
: 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 adjective
adaptogenic herbs like ginseng and milk thistle, which can help build stress resistance. Barb Berggoetz, The Indianapolis (Indiana) Star
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