Despite them only recently coming onto the western wellness radar, adaptogens have been around for centuries – often used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. As natural substances thought to help the body adapt to physical, biological and/or chemical stressors, it’s no wonder that there are now thousands of supplements containing adaptogens on the market claiming to reduce fatigue, alleviate anxiety and boost libido. After all, who isn’t tired and stressed these days? 

A quick google for adaptogens will bring up hundreds of articles boasting the same benefits, but the truth is somewhat more murky. Claims are based on anecdotal evidence rather than legitimate scientific studies.