Adaptogens. Nootropics. Both of these terms are flying around at increasing rates in marketing for new supplements, health beverages, foods, and much more. But what do these terms actually mean?
These substances existed long before the recent popularity of nutrient-rich foods and beverages marketed with these labels. However, many of us aren’t clear on the difference between an adaptogen and a nootropic, and there are significant differences and benefits for each. In this post, we’ll define these terms and share common examples of each substance.
What Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are any plant substance, such as roots, mushrooms, or herbs, that helps the body manage stress, reduce fatigue, and increase resistance to environmental stress. The ultimate goal of an adaptogen is to help the body maintain a healthy state of homeostasis.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, adaptogens must meet the following three qualities:
- It helps the body cope with stress.
- It’s non-toxic to take in normal doses.
- It supports and balances the body, allowing it to return to homeostasis.
Common adaptogens include:
Many people take adaptogens to support reduced anxiety, stress, and fatigue and to regulate emotional reactions to stress. Other reasons for consuming adaptogens include boosting the immune system, helping the body return to homeostasis, and coping with trauma.
Studies have shown adaptogens produce neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), and antidepressant effects and increased tolerance to mental exhaustion. Researchers have also observed enhanced attention.
Simply put, adaptogens encourage the body’s return to a healthy, less stressed state of being.
For more information about adaptogens, read our previous article on three must-know adaptogens and their researched health benefits.
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics are cognitive enhancers or “smart drugs.” This large group of medicinal substances can be derived from plants or synthetically. Nootropics aim to enhance human thinking, memory, learning, and recall.
Whether you’re a student trying to improve your memory for test taking or you feel that you could use a boost in mental alertness, nootropics offer many solutions for those looking to enhance the mind.
Studies have shown that even a single dose of certain nootropics, like ginseng, can improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activity. Many who try nootropics claim that it improves memory, alertness, and concentration and reduces undesirable mental states like mood swings, fatigue, or brain fog.
You probably consume nootropics without even realizing it! One of the most common and beloved nootropics is caffeine, which most of us regularly consume from beverages like coffee, black or green tea, and yerba mate. Anything you take with B vitamins is also a purported nootropic, as B vitamins are known for enhancing the mind and increasing alertness.
Common nootropics include:
For more information about nootropics, read our previous piece on the top six herbal nootropics for improving mental focus and nerve health.
What Is The Difference Between Adaptogens and Nootropics?
Ultimately, the difference between these two substances is what they target. Nootropics stimulate cognitive function, which may improve memory, concentration, recall speed, nerve health, and more.
In contrast, adaptogens are a more holistic herb used to support the body during periods of stress and imbalance. Adaptogens can ease stress on the body, boost the immune system, and support reduced fatigue.
Some herbs, like ashwagandha, are classified as both an adaptogen and a nootropic based on their unique properties. If you’re unsure whether an adaptogen or nootropic is for you, ashwagandha may be a good choice as it encourages a healthier mind and body.
Otherwise, you may feel pulled toward one of these herbs based on your current life stage. For example, if you’ve been struggling with brain fog or have upcoming mental stressors like a large work project, a nootropic may be your best choice for promoting enhanced cognitive ability. On the other hand, if you’ve been experiencing a lot of stress, are feeling exhausted, or have been sick recently, an adaptogen can support a return to a more energetic, balanced state.
Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can always try a nootropic and adaptogen to support enhanced health and cognition! (We always recommend speaking with your medical professional before changing your routine.)
Our Most Popular Herbal Adaptogens and Nootropics
If you’re interested in trying out adaptogens and nootropics, take a look at some of our most beloved options for supporting the mind and body.
Some standout adaptogens include:
- Adapto-Gen Capsules: This potent blend combines ashwagandha, schisandra, rhodiola, wild-harvested sarsaparilla, and organic ginger to promote a healthier stress response and improved energy and stamina.*
- Ashwagandha Root Extract: This well-known rejuvenating tonic supports those struggling with stress-induced fatigue, nervous exhaustion, or poor sleep.* You can add this tonic to your water three to four times a day or as directed by your medical provider.
- Adrenal Support Capsules: If you want extra support during times of mental and physical stress, our Adrenal Support Capsules can provide you with an extra boost. We’ve crafted these with eleuthero root, licorice root, astragalus root, oat straw, and other energy-enhancing herbs to promote a healthy response to stress.*
A few of our favorite nootropic options include:
- Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules: These capsules may improve cognitive function, memory, creativity, motivation, and more. They are popular for supporting a healthy nervous system, improved concentration, and a positive mood.*
- Matcha Green Tea Capsules: Any caffeinated beverage may support enhanced cognitive function. We recommend these green tea capsules, which provide valuable antioxidants, support improved memory and alertness, and may encourage healthy weight loss goals.*
- Mind Sharp Capsules: This capsule blend contains powerful nootropics, including ginkgo, lion’s mane mushrooms, gotu kola, and caffeine from guarana. We’ve carefully designed these to encourage mental focus, alertness, creativity, memory, concentration, and mental energy.*
- Caffeinated teas are another excellent option for incorporating nootropics into your day-to-day life.
Thanks for reading! We hope this article cleared up any confusion between adaptogens and nootropics. While there is some overlap between the two, both have unique properties that we can take advantage of when we need it most.
Well Wishes,
Herbalist Natalie & Herbalist Leilah
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Natalie Hajdu-Voakes is a consulting herbalist and the owner of The Herb Stop, with over 28 years of hands-on experience in crafting herbal remedies and promoting natural wellness. |