Adaptogens: What They Are—and What Science Says About Their Potential in Midlife
The term “adaptogen” refers to a group of plants and botanicals that help the body maintain balance and resilience in the face of stressors.
The term “adaptogen” refers to a group of plants and botanicals that help the body maintain balance and resilience in the face of stressors.
To be formally classified as an adaptogen, a botanical must meet three criteria (as first outlined by Russian scientists in the 1940s and 50s):
It must be non-toxic at typical doses.
It must help the body resist a wide range of stressors (physical, chemical, biological).
It must help normalize physiological function—supporting the body to find balance.
Hormonal shifts in midlife trigger changes in our stress response system, especially around cortisol regulation.
In short: adaptogens help your body adapt—without over stimulating or sedating. And, as we begin to invest in studies botanicals more thoroughly, their potential - particularly for those of us in midlife - is exciting.
Why Adaptogens Matter in Midlife
Hormonal shifts in midlife trigger changes in our stress response system, especially around cortisol regulation. Many of us find we’re more sensitive to stress, more prone to anxiety, and slower to recover from emotional or physical setbacks. This is where targeted adaptogens can help. Curious to see whether adaptogens may be what your body and mind need? The best researched botanicals are often the best place to start.
Ashwagandha is one of the best researched adaptogens.
Maca Root may also help with hormonal balance and energy levels during menopause
Ashwagandha:
Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha is one of the best researched adaptogens and has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, improve sleep quality, and support mood balance. We love to work with Ashwagandha KSM-66® which is organic, uses a unique ‘green chemistry’ extraction process and has the greatest body of studies supporting its potential.
Maca Root:
Traditionally used to support stamina, mood, and libido. Early studies indicate maca may also help with hormonal balance and energy levels during menopause. It has been shown to improve cardiovascular health markers too.
Bacopa monnieri:
Bacopa is not strictly an adaptogen - rather a nootropic herb with really interesting adaptogenic properties! Research points to its potential to help us with cognitive function, memory, focus and resistance to mental stress. It also has antioxidant effects.
At MPOWDER, we advocate for individual agency. Be curious. Explore emerging research. Try new things. And if adaptogens are something you want to learn more about, make sure you’re respectful of Mother Nature too! These botanicals can work - but they may also have contraindications too. Always talk to your medical provider before introducing adaptogens, particularly if you have an underlying health condition or are on medication.
MPOWDER’s Meno-Boost and Mood Food both use adaptogens synergistically with other botanicals in their carefully created formulations. To learn more head to our collections page.
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Watch the full conversation with MPOWDER founder Rebekah Brown over on our YouTube channel.
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