Phyto adaptogens in stress management and health optimization: Current understanding and future perspectives.

BACKGROUND: Adaptogens are primarily plant-derived bioactive compounds that enhance the body's resistance to physical, chemical, and biological stressors, thereby showing promise in managing stress-related disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, inflammation, and ageing, among others. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the mechanisms, therapeutic applications, and clinical relevance of adaptogens, particularly in neurological and inflammatory disorders, and identifies limitations and future research directions. SUMMARY: This narrative review included peer-reviewed literature from PubMed and Scopus using keywords such as "adaptogens," "stress response," "HPA axis," "neuroprotection," and names of specific adaptogens. Both in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as human clinical trials, were considered. Studies indicate that adaptogens modulate multiple molecular pathways, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, Nuclear Factor - kappa B (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase 9 (MAPK), and antioxidant defence systems, exerting neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, endocrine-regulating, antifatigue, and mood-enhancing effects. Prominent adaptogens include Withania somnifera, Panax ginseng, Rhodiola rosea, Schisandra chinensis, and Eleutherococcus senticosus. Though pre-clinical findings are promising, clinical trials are often limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and heterogeneity in herbal preparations. KEY MESSAGES: Adaptogens demonstrate significant potential in stress management and as adjunctive therapy for chronic diseases. However, further large-scale, standardized clinical studies are needed to confirm their efficacy, elucidate mechanisms, and support integration into mainstream medicine.