Adaptogens are plant-based stress modulators that help the body to cope better with difficult situations and return to a normal state more quickly after stress. The term is derived from the Latin *adaptare* ("to adapt") and aptly describes the ability of these plant substances to increase our resilience in challenging situations and promote regeneration.

The discovery of adaptogens

The Soviet researcher Nikolai Lazarev coined the term "adaptogen" back in the 1940s and recognized a general stress-reducing effect in medicinal plants such as *Schisandra chinensis*. Since then, there have been four main criteria for genuine adaptogens: they should reduce stress-related damage, have a stimulating effect, have no undesirable side effects and not harm the body.

Balance for the stress axis

On a physiological level, primary adaptogens act on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HHN axis), which controls our hormonal stress response. During acute stress reactions, cortisol and adrenaline provide the necessary energy and performance "kick", but during long-term stress this axis remains permanently activated - with consequences such as exhaustion, sleep disorders and increased susceptibility to infections.

Adaptogens balance this system by supporting the release of stress hormones during acute stress peaks on the one hand and ensuring that hormone production is reduced again more quickly once the stress has subsided on the other.

Plant substances with multiple effects

Chemically, adaptogens are rich in polyphenols, polysaccharides and other secondary plant substances that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating effects. A prime example is rose root (*Rhodiola rosea*), whose active components salidrosides and rosavins have been shown to brighten the mood, reduce tiredness and increase concentration.

Mental Booster - the smart solution from Natura Vitalis

In order to effectively integrate adaptogens into everyday life, it is advisable to use well thought-out combination formulations. The "Mental Booster" product from Natura Vitalis specifically focuses on 350 mg of highly concentrated roseroot root extract per capsule as well as supporting micronutrients such as pantothenic acid, vitamins B6 and B12, zinc, choline and natural caffeine from green tea. This combination works synergistically to increase stress resistance, reduce fatigue and stabilize mental performance during periods of high mental stress.

Energy and focus for the whole day

If you want to strengthen your stress resistance in the long term and boost your mental power at the same time, you can use Mental Booster as a daily companion. Taking them in the morning is particularly suitable for ensuring a stable level of energy and concentration throughout the day. In combination with sufficient sleep, a balanced diet and regular breaks, adaptogens help to find a healthy balance between stress and regeneration.