Adaptogenic Drinks: Ancient Botanicals for Modern Stress Management

Introduction: The Modern Stress Epidemic

Chronic stress has become the defining health crisis of the 21st century. According to the American Psychological Association, 77% of people experience physical symptoms caused by stress, while 73% report psychological symptoms. The World Health Organization calls stress the "health epidemic of the 21st century."

Stress isn't just uncomfortable—it's dangerous:

• Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity
• Weakened immune system
• Mental health issues (anxiety, depression)
• Digestive problems
• Accelerated aging
• Sleep disruption

While eliminating stress isn't realistic, managing your body's stress response is possible. Enter adaptogens—a unique class of botanical compounds that help your body adapt to stress and maintain balance (homeostasis).

Adaptogenic drinks make these ancient healing botanicals convenient and accessible, offering a natural alternative to pharmaceutical interventions for stress management. But do they actually work, or are they just wellness industry hype?

This comprehensive guide explores the science behind adaptogens, how they work, proven benefits, top adaptogenic ingredients, and how to choose products that deliver real stress relief.

What Are Adaptogens? Definition and Science

The Origin of Adaptogens

The term "adaptogen" was coined in 1947 by Soviet scientist Dr. Nikolai Lazarev, who studied substances that could enhance performance and resilience in extreme conditions (military applications, high-altitude survival, etc.).

In 1968, Dr. Israel Brekhman and Dr. I.V. Dardymov established the three criteria that define a true adaptogen:

1. Non-Specific Activity: Increases resistance to a wide variety of stressors (physical, chemical, biological)
2. Normalizing Effect: Helps maintain homeostasis regardless of the direction of stress response (calms overactivity, stimulates underactivity)
3. Non-Toxic: Safe for long-term use with minimal side effects at normal doses

In simple terms: Adaptogens help your body maintain balance when faced with stress—whether that stress is physical (exercise, illness), mental (work pressure, anxiety), or environmental (extreme temperatures, pollution).

How Adaptogens Work: The HPA Axis

To understand adaptogens, you must understand your body's stress response system: the HPA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal) Axis.

The Stress Response (Simplified):

1. Stressor Detected: Brain perceives threat (deadline, argument, physical danger)
2. Hypothalamus Activates: Releases CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone)
3. Pituitary Responds: Releases ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone)
4. Adrenals Produce Cortisol: "Stress hormone" floods bloodstream
5. Fight-or-Flight Response: Increased heart rate, blood pressure, glucose, alertness

Short-Term Stress = Beneficial (helps you escape danger, meet deadlines)

Chronic Stress = Harmful (constantly elevated cortisol damages health)

Adaptogens' Mechanism of Action

Adaptogens work by modulating the HPA axis and stress response:

1. Regulate Cortisol Production

• Reduce excessive cortisol during chronic stress
• Prevent cortisol depletion during prolonged stress
• Maintain optimal cortisol rhythm (high morning, low evening)

2. Protect Cells from Stress Damage

• Increase cellular energy (ATP) production
• Enhance antioxidant defense systems
• Support mitochondrial function
• Reduce oxidative stress

3. Support Neurotransmitter Balance

• Influence serotonin (mood)
• Modulate GABA (calming)
• Support dopamine (motivation)
• Balance norepinephrine (alertness)

4. Enhance Stress Protein Expression

• Increase heat shock proteins (HSPs)
• Improve cellular resilience
• Faster recovery from stress

Result: You feel calm but energized, focused but not jittery, resilient but not numb.

Science-Backed Benefits of Adaptogenic Drinks

1. Stress and Anxiety Reduction

What Research Shows:

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

• Study (Chandrasekhar et al., 2012): 300mg twice daily reduced stress scores by 44%
• Anxiety decreased by 56%
• Cortisol levels dropped by 27.9%

Rhodiola rosea:

• Study (Edwards et al., 2012): 200mg daily improved stress symptoms by 30%
• Reduced fatigue, improved mood
• Better mental performance under stress

Holy Basil (Tulsi):

• Study (Bhattacharyya et al., 2008): 600mg daily reduced general stress scores by 39%
• Improved sleep quality
• Enhanced sense of wellbeing

Mechanisms:

• Lower cortisol production
• Increased GABA (calming neurotransmitter)
• Reduced inflammatory stress markers
• Balanced autonomic nervous system

Timeline: 2-8 weeks for noticeable stress reduction

2. Cognitive Performance and Mental Clarity

What Research Shows:

Rhodiola rosea:

• Study (Spasov et al., 2000): Improved attention, speed, and accuracy on cognitive tests by 20%
• Reduced mental fatigue by 30%
• Enhanced working memory

Bacopa monnieri:

• Study (Calabrese et al., 2008): Improved memory acquisition and retention by 25%
• Faster information processing
• Enhanced cognitive function in healthy adults

Lion's Mane Mushroom:

• Study (Mori et al., 2009): Improved cognitive function in elderly adults
• Stimulates NGF (nerve growth factor) production
• Supports neurogenesis (new brain cell formation)

Benefits:

• Sharper focus and concentration
• Faster mental processing
• Better memory recall
• Reduced brain fog
• Enhanced learning capacity

Timeline: 4-12 weeks for cognitive improvements

3. Physical Performance and Endurance

What Research Shows:

Rhodiola rosea:

• Study (De Bock et al., 2004): Improved endurance exercise performance by 3%
• Faster time-to-exhaustion
• Reduced perceived exertion

Cordyceps mushroom:

• Study (Chen et al., 2010): Increased VO2 max (aerobic capacity) by 7%
• Improved lactate clearance
• Enhanced ATP production

Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng):

• Study (Kuo et al., 2010): Increased endurance capacity by 23%
• Faster recovery from exercise
• Reduced muscle damage markers

Mechanisms:

• Enhanced mitochondrial function (cellular energy)
• Improved oxygen utilization
• Better lactate clearance
• Reduced oxidative stress from exercise

Timeline: 2-4 weeks for performance improvements

4. Immune System Support

What Research Shows:

Astragalus:

• Increases white blood cell production
• Enhances antibody response
• Reduces common cold frequency by 30-40%

Reishi Mushroom:

• Modulates immune function (neither overstimulates nor suppresses)
• Increases natural killer (NK) cell activity
• Reduces inflammation

Holy Basil:

• Antimicrobial and antiviral properties
• Enhances T-cell function
• Protects against stress-induced immune suppression

Benefits:

• Fewer infections (colds, flu)
• Faster recovery from illness
• Balanced immune response (important for autoimmune conditions)

Timeline: 4-8 weeks for immune improvements

5. Hormonal Balance

What Research Shows:

Ashwagandha:

• Study (Ahmad et al., 2010): Increased testosterone in men by 17%
• Improved sperm quality and fertility
• Balanced thyroid hormones in hypothyroidism

Maca Root:

• Study (Gonzales et al., 2002): Improved sexual function and libido
• No direct hormonal effects (doesn't increase estrogen/testosterone)
• Works via hypothalamus-pituitary axis

Schisandra:

• Supports adrenal function
• Balances cortisol-DHEA ratio
• May improve hormonal acne

Benefits:

• Improved energy and vitality
• Better libido and sexual function
• Regulated menstrual cycles
• Reduced PMS/menopausal symptoms

Timeline: 8-12 weeks for hormonal balance

6. Sleep Quality Improvement

What Research Shows:

Ashwagandha:

• Study (Langade et al., 2019): Improved sleep quality by 72%
• Reduced sleep onset latency (time to fall asleep)
• Increased total sleep time

Reishi Mushroom:

• Promotes relaxation without sedation
• Improves sleep architecture (more deep sleep)
• Reduces nighttime awakenings

Holy Basil:

• Reduces cortisol (elevated cortisol disrupts sleep)
• Calms nervous system
• Promotes restorative sleep

Mechanisms:

• Lower evening cortisol (cortisol should be low at night)
• Increased GABA activity (calming)
• Reduced anxiety and rumination
• Balanced circadian rhythm

Timeline: 2-4 weeks for sleep improvements

Top Adaptogens Explained: Benefits and Dosages

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Traditional Use: Ayurvedic medicine (3,000+ years)

Primary Benefits:

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Lowers cortisol levels
• Improves sleep quality
• Supports thyroid function
• Enhances strength and muscle recovery
• Boosts testosterone (in men)

Active Compounds: Withanolides (steroidal lactones)

Effective Dosage:

• Standardized extract (5% withanolides): 300-600mg daily
• Full-spectrum root powder: 1,000-2,000mg daily
• Divided into 2 doses (morning and evening)

Best For:

• Chronic stress and anxiety
• Poor sleep
• Physical and mental fatigue
• Hormonal imbalance

Safety: Generally safe. May lower blood pressure and blood sugar (monitor if medicated). Avoid during pregnancy.

2. Rhodiola rosea

Traditional Use: Scandinavian, Russian, Chinese medicine (centuries)

Primary Benefits:

• Reduces mental fatigue
• Improves cognitive performance under stress
• Enhances physical endurance
• Elevates mood
• Supports energy without jitters

Active Compounds: Rosavins and salidroside

Effective Dosage:

• Standardized extract (3% rosavins, 1% salidroside): 200-600mg daily
• Take in morning/early afternoon (may be stimulating)

Best For:

• Mental fog and fatigue
• Burnout and low motivation
• Athletic performance
• Mild depression

Safety: Generally safe. Avoid evening doses (may interfere with sleep). Not recommended for bipolar disorder.

3. Holy Basil (Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum)

Traditional Use: Ayurvedic medicine (5,000+ years)

Primary Benefits:

• Reduces general stress and anxiety
• Supports healthy cortisol levels
• Enhances mood and mental clarity
• Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory
• Supports metabolic health

Active Compounds: Eugenol, ursolic acid

Effective Dosage:

• Standardized extract: 300-600mg daily
• Tea: 2-3 cups daily

Best For:

• Everyday stress management
• Immune support
• Metabolic syndrome
• Inflammation

Safety: Very safe. May lower blood sugar (monitor if diabetic). Safe during pregnancy in normal culinary amounts.

4. Cordyceps Mushroom

Traditional Use: Tibetan and Chinese medicine (1,000+ years)

Primary Benefits:

• Increases energy and endurance
• Enhances oxygen utilization
• Supports lung function
• Boosts libido
• Improves athletic performance

Active Compounds: Cordycepin, polysaccharides

Effective Dosage:

• Standardized extract: 1,000-3,000mg daily

Best For:

• Athletes and active individuals
• Fatigue and low energy
• Respiratory health
• Sexual function

Safety: Generally safe. May stimulate immune system (caution with autoimmune conditions).

5. Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)

Traditional Use: Traditional Chinese Medicine (2,000+ years)

Primary Benefits:

• Calms mind and promotes relaxation
• Supports immune function
• Improves sleep quality
• Liver protection
• Longevity and anti-aging

Active Compounds: Triterpenes, polysaccharides

Effective Dosage:

• Standardized extract: 1,000-2,000mg daily
• Best taken evening (promotes relaxation)

Best For:

• Sleep support
• Immune modulation
• Chronic inflammation
• Liver health

Safety: Very safe. May interact with immunosuppressants or blood thinners (consult doctor).

6. Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)

Traditional Use: Peruvian traditional medicine (2,000+ years)

Primary Benefits:

• Enhances energy and stamina
• Improves libido and sexual function
• Supports hormonal balance
• Boosts mood
• Increases endurance

Active Compounds: Macamides, macaenes

Effective Dosage:

• Gelatinized maca powder: 1,500-3,000mg daily

Best For:

• Low libido
• Hormonal imbalances
• Energy and endurance
• Mood support

Safety: Very safe. May affect thyroid function (use cautiously with thyroid conditions).

7. Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)

Traditional Use: Traditional Chinese Medicine (millennia)

Primary Benefits:

• Supports liver detoxification
• Enhances mental performance
• Improves endurance
• Protects against stress-induced damage
• Promotes youthful skin

Active Compounds: Lignans (schisandrin)

Effective Dosage:

• Standardized extract: 500-2,000mg daily

Best For:

• Liver support and detoxification
• Mental clarity
• Skin health
• Athletic performance

Safety: Generally safe. May interact with some medications metabolized by liver (CYP450 enzymes).

8. Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng - Eleutherococcus senticosus)

Traditional Use: Russian and Chinese medicine

Primary Benefits:

• Increases physical endurance
• Enhances mental performance
• Supports immune function
• Reduces fatigue
• Improves stress resilience

Active Compounds: Eleutherosides

Effective Dosage:

• Standardized extract (0.8% eleutherosides): 300-1,200mg daily

Best For:

• Physical and mental fatigue
• Athletic training
• Immune support
• Stress adaptation

Safety: Generally safe. May affect blood pressure and blood sugar (monitor if applicable).

How to Choose Quality Adaptogenic Drinks

1. Verify Adaptogen Type and Dosage

Red Flags:

• "Adaptogen blend" without listing individual amounts
• Trace amounts (<50mg of any single adaptogen)
• Proprietary blends hiding dosages

Green Flags:

• Specific adaptogens listed (e.g., "Ashwagandha root extract")
• Dosages clearly stated
• Standardized extracts (e.g., "5% withanolides")

Effective Dosages:

• Ashwagandha: 300-600mg extract
• Rhodiola: 200-600mg extract
• Holy Basil: 300-600mg extract
• Cordyceps: 1,000-3,000mg
• Reishi: 1,000-2,000mg

2. Check for Standardization

What is Standardization? Standardized extracts guarantee a consistent amount of active compounds (e.g., 5% withanolides in ashwagandha).

Why It Matters:

• Raw herbs vary in potency (soil, climate, harvest time)
• Standardized extracts ensure reliable, consistent effects
• Research studies use standardized extracts

Look For:

• "Standardized to X% [active compound]"
• Specific extract ratio (e.g., "10:1 extract" = 10kg herb → 1kg extract)

3. Assess Sugar and Caffeine Content

Sugar:

• Limit: <10g per serving
• Avoid: Drinks with >15g sugar (undermines stress-relief benefits)

Caffeine:

• Some adaptogenic drinks include caffeine (from green tea, yerba mate)
• Synergistic: L-theanine + caffeine + adaptogens = calm focus
• Problematic: High caffeine alone increases stress response
• Choose based on needs (morning = caffeine OK, evening = avoid)

4. Look for Complementary Ingredients

Synergistic Additions:

• L-theanine: Amino acid from green tea, promotes calm focus
• Magnesium: Mineral that calms nervous system
• B-vitamins: Support energy metabolism and stress response
• Antioxidants: Protect cells from stress damage

Avoid:

• Excessive stimulants (synephrine, yohimbine)
• Artificial additives
• Unnecessary fillers

5. Third-Party Testing and Quality

Quality Indicators:

• Organic certification (reduces pesticide exposure)
• Non-GMO verified
• Heavy metal testing (important for mushrooms, roots)
• Third-party testing (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab)
• GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certified

Common Myths About Adaptogens (Debunked)

Myth 1: "Adaptogens are just caffeine alternatives"

Reality: Adaptogens provide energy through different mechanisms:

• Caffeine: Blocks adenosine (fatigue signal), stimulates adrenaline (temporary boost, then crash)
• Adaptogens: Support mitochondrial function, balance stress hormones, sustainable energy without crashes

Some adaptogens are calming (ashwagandha, reishi), not stimulating.

Myth 2: "All adaptogens do the same thing"

Reality: While all adaptogens support stress resilience, each has unique properties:

• Ashwagandha: Calming, sleep-promoting
• Rhodiola: Energizing, cognitive-enhancing
• Holy Basil: Balancing, mood-lifting
• Cordyceps: Performance-enhancing, physical energy

Choose based on specific needs.

Myth 3: "Adaptogens work immediately like medication"

Reality: Adaptogens are not fast-acting drugs. They work by:

• Rebalancing physiological systems
• Building resilience over time
• Normalizing stress response

Timeline:

• Initial effects: 1-2 weeks
• Full benefits: 4-8 weeks
• Optimal results: 12+ weeks of consistent use

Myth 4: "More adaptogens = better results"

Reality: Adaptogens follow a "Goldilocks principle"—too little is ineffective, too much can cause side effects, optimal dose is just right.

Excessive doses may cause:

• Digestive upset
• Sleep disruption
• Headaches
• Overstimulation or sedation

Stick to research-backed dosages.

Myth 5: "Adaptogens are a cure-all"

Reality: Adaptogens are powerful tools for stress management but not magic bullets. They work best when combined with:

• Adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
• Balanced diet
• Regular exercise
• Stress-reduction practices (meditation, yoga)
• Strong social connections

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Use Adaptogenic Drinks

Ideal Candidates

Chronic Stress:

• High-pressure jobs
• Caregivers
• Students
• Entrepreneurs

Fatigue and Burnout:

• Mental exhaustion
• Physical fatigue
• Low motivation
• Difficulty recovering from stress

Athletic Performance:

• Endurance athletes
• Strength training
• Active lifestyle
• Recovery optimization

Cognitive Demands:

• Knowledge workers
• Multitaskers
• Creative professionals
• Anyone experiencing brain fog

Sleep Issues:

• Difficulty falling asleep (stress-related)
• Poor sleep quality
• Nighttime cortisol elevation

Who Should Use Caution or Avoid

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Limited safety data
• Some adaptogens (ashwagandha) may not be safe during pregnancy
• Always consult OB-GYN first

Autoimmune Conditions:

• Some adaptogens stimulate immune system (cordyceps, astragalus)
• May worsen autoimmune conditions
• Consult rheumatologist or immunologist

Hormone-Sensitive Conditions:

• Some adaptogens affect hormones
• Use caution with breast cancer, endometriosis, PCOS
• Consult oncologist or endocrinologist

Medications:

• Immunosuppressants (avoid immune-stimulating adaptogens)
• Blood thinners (reishi may increase bleeding risk)
• Sedatives (ashwagandha may enhance effects)
• Blood pressure medications (some adaptogens affect BP)
• Thyroid medications (ashwagandha affects thyroid)

Always consult doctor if taking medications or have chronic conditions.

Adaptogenic Drinks by No Bullshit Drinks

At No Bullshit Drinks, we believe in transparency, science, and effective dosing. Our products contain research-backed adaptogens at clinically meaningful doses—no proprietary blends, no under-dosing, no hype.

While we don't currently have a dedicated adaptogenic drink, several NBD products contain adaptogenic ingredients:

Akvile Pre + Post Green Tea:

• Natural caffeine from green tea (calm energy)
• L-theanine (promotes focus without jitters)
• B-vitamins (stress support)
• Antioxidants (protect against stress damage)

Coming Soon: NBD Adaptogenic Blend We're developing a science-backed adaptogenic beverage featuring:

• Ashwagandha (300mg standardized extract)
• Rhodiola (200mg standardized extract)
• Holy Basil (300mg standardized extract)
• L-theanine (100mg)
• Magnesium (200mg)
• B-vitamin complex
• Zero added sugar

No BS. Just science-backed stress relief.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take for adaptogens to work?

A: Timeline varies by benefit:

• Initial calming effects: 1-2 weeks
• Stress resilience: 4-8 weeks
• Cognitive performance: 4-12 weeks
• Hormonal balance: 8-12 weeks
• Physical performance: 2-4 weeks

Consistency is essential.

Q: Can I take multiple adaptogens together?

A: Yes! In fact, combining complementary adaptogens often works better:

• Ashwagandha + Rhodiola (balanced energy + stress relief)
• Holy Basil + Reishi (mood + sleep)
• Cordyceps + Eleuthero (physical performance)

Avoid excessive total doses (stick to recommended amounts for each).

Q: Are adaptogenic drinks safe for daily use?

A: Yes, by definition, adaptogens are non-toxic and safe for long-term use at recommended doses. Many people use them daily for months or years. Some practitioners recommend occasional "breaks" (1 week off every 2-3 months) to maintain sensitivity.

Q: Can adaptogens help with anxiety disorders?

A: Adaptogens can reduce mild-to-moderate anxiety and stress. However:

• They're not a replacement for therapy or medication
• Work best for stress-induced anxiety
• Severe anxiety disorders require professional treatment
• Can be used alongside therapy/medication (consult doctor)

Q: Do adaptogens cause weight gain or loss?

A: No direct effect on weight, but indirect benefits:

• Lower cortisol = less stress-related belly fat
• Better sleep = improved metabolism
• Reduced stress eating
• Enhanced energy = more activity

Not weight-loss supplements, but support healthy weight indirectly.

Q: Can I drink adaptogenic beverages before bed?

A: Depends on the adaptogen:

• Calming (safe before bed): Ashwagandha, Reishi, Holy Basil
• Stimulating (avoid evening): Rhodiola, Cordyceps, Eleuthero

Check product label for specific adaptogens.

Q: Are adaptogens just placebo effect?

A: No. Hundreds of clinical studies demonstrate measurable effects:

• Reduced cortisol levels (measured in blood)
• Improved cognitive test scores
• Enhanced physical performance metrics
• Better sleep architecture (measured via polysomnography)

Effects are real and reproducible in controlled studies.

Lifestyle Practices That Enhance Adaptogen Benefits

1. Meditation and Mindfulness

Why: Adaptogens reduce physiological stress; meditation reduces psychological stress.

Practice:

• 10-20 minutes daily meditation
• Mindfulness throughout day
• Deep breathing exercises

Synergy: Adaptogens + meditation = 40-50% greater stress reduction than either alone.

2. Quality Sleep

Why: Adaptogens support healthy cortisol rhythm, but sleep is when your body repairs.

Practice:

• 7-9 hours nightly
• Consistent sleep schedule
• Dark, cool bedroom
• No screens 1 hour before bed

Synergy: Adaptogens improve sleep quality; good sleep enhances adaptogen effectiveness.

3. Regular Exercise

Why: Exercise is a beneficial stressor that improves stress resilience.

Practice:

• 150 minutes moderate exercise weekly
• Mix cardio, strength, flexibility
• Don't overtrain (excessive exercise increases cortisol)

Synergy: Adaptogens enhance exercise performance and recovery.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Why: Chronic inflammation amplifies stress response.

Practice:

• Emphasize whole foods
• Omega-3 fats (fish, flaxseed, walnuts)
• Colorful vegetables and fruits
• Minimize processed foods and sugar

Synergy: Adaptogens + anti-inflammatory diet = reduced systemic inflammation.

5. Social Connection

Why: Strong relationships are the #1 predictor of stress resilience and longevity.

Practice:

• Prioritize meaningful relationships
• Regular social activities
• Seek support when stressed
• Practice empathy and connection

Synergy: Adaptogens support stress physiology; relationships support stress psychology.

Conclusion: Adaptogens for a Balanced Life

In our high-stress modern world, adaptogens offer a scientifically-validated, time-tested approach to stress management. These ancient botanicals don't eliminate stress—they help your body respond more resiliently, maintaining balance in the face of life's inevitable challenges.

Key Takeaways:

1. ✅ Adaptogens work: Hundreds of studies confirm stress-reducing, performance-enhancing benefits
2. ✅ Quality matters: Choose standardized extracts at research-backed doses
3. ✅ Consistency is essential: Daily use for 4-8+ weeks required for full benefits
4. ✅ Individual responses vary: Experiment to find the adaptogens that work best for you
5. ✅ Holistic approach: Combine adaptogens with sleep, exercise, diet, stress management

The No Bullshit Bottom Line:

Adaptogenic drinks are legitimate tools for stress management—not magic, not hype, but science. When formulated correctly with effective dosages of proven adaptogens, they offer real benefits for stress resilience, cognitive performance, physical endurance, and overall wellbeing.

Demand transparency. Demand science. Demand effective dosing.

Your stress response deserves better than empty promises.

Ready for adaptogens that actually work?

Explore No Bullshit Drinks' science-backed functional beverages. Coming soon: dedicated adaptogenic blend with ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil. Zero BS.

Scientific References:

1. Chandrasekhar K, et al. "A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults." Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 2012; 34(3):255-262.
2. Edwards D, et al. "Therapeutic effects and safety of Rhodiola rosea extract WS® 1375 in subjects with life-stress symptoms—results of an open-label study." Phytotherapy Research, 2012; 26(8):1220-1225.
3. Bhattacharyya D, et al. "Controlled programmed trial of Ocimum sanctum leaf on generalized anxiety disorders." Nepal Medical College Journal, 2008; 10(3):176-179.
4. Spasov AA, et al. "A double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study of the stimulating and adaptogenic effect of Rhodiola rosea SHR-5 extract on the fatigue of students caused by stress during an examination period with a repeated low-dose regimen." Phytomedicine, 2000; 7(2):85-89.
5. De Bock K, et al. "Acute Rhodiola rosea intake can improve endurance exercise performance." International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2004; 14(3):298-307.
6. Langade D, et al. "Clinical evaluation of the pharmacological impact of ashwagandha root extract on sleep in healthy volunteers and insomnia patients: A double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study." Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2021; 264:113276.
7. Panossian A, Wikman G. "Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress—Protective Activity." Pharmaceuticals, 2010; 3(1):188-224.