1. Ginseng

Benefit-rich ginseng is the most well-known adaptogen, but Panax ginseng or eleuthrococcus, is considered the best strain for improving mental performance, and the ability to withstand stress. This red ginseng also has antioxidant effects, antidepressant effects, and can help naturally lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

2. Holy basil

Also called tulsi, holy basil is known as the “elixir of anti-aging” in India. Preliminary

studies suggest that holy basil benefits include; improving the fatigue from stress, boost

your immune system, regulate blood sugar, blood pressure and hormone levels.

3. Ashwaganda

Ashwaganda is often referred to as Indian ginseng. Often used in Ayurvedic

medicine, ashwaganda regulates the immune system and eases anxiety. This herb had

been used in Eastern medicine for over 2,500 years, and has immuno-modulating

effects that boost your immune system, and also aid the body in lowering cortisol levels.

4. Astragalus root

Used in Chinese medicine, astragalus boosts immunity and buffers the effects of stress.

It increases the amount of anti-stress compounds our bodies use to repair and

prevent stress-related damage. It may also reduce the ability of stress hormones

like cortisol to bind to receptors.

5. Licorice root

Licorice is an antiviral, helps boost the immune system, stabilizes blood sugar, and protects the thymus from being damaged by cortisol. It feeds the adrenal glands, and can give you a little lift from afternoon fatigue. Licorice is a phytosterol, and not intended for long term use.

6. Rhodiola

Rhodiola rosea, or golden root is a potent adaptogen that has been the focus of much research. This herb provides a buffer to stress-related mental and physical fatigue with a phytochemical it contains called salidroside. This chemical helps relieve anxiety and slows aging. Rhodiola suppresses the production of cortisol and increases levels of stress-resistant proteins. Studies have found that it can restore normal patterns of eating and sleeping after stress, while lowering mental and physical fatigue.

7. Cordycep mushrooms

Cordyceps, reishi, shiitake and maitake mushrooms are funguses,with antioxidant properties. That means nutrition-rich mushrooms have all the benefits of antioxidant foods. They may not be adaptogens in the classic sense, but each has adaptogenic, anti-tumor and immune-enhancing properties.