Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) are herbs known for their adaptogenic and calming properties, as well as for mitigating the effects of stress and fatigue. Adaptogens induce stress-protective benefits facilitated by the regulation of homeostasis via several molecular networks, including modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the expression of several stress-related proteins, including neuropeptide Y.
Ashwagandha limits the production of dopamine and other hormones in response to stress and also acts as a GABA receptor agonist, both of which have the effect of reducing the overall stress response. In controlled trials, it improved memory and several markers of cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment, as well as reduced cortisol, stress, and anxiety in stressed healthy adults. Siberian ginseng root contains eleutherosides, which are known to have anti-fatigue, anti-stress, and immunomodulatory effects, and have been clinically shown to have therapeutic efficacy against chronic fatigue and stress, as well as to improve athletic performance. Lavender oil is believed to act on both the central and sympathetic nervous systems and has been clinically shown to have a calming and relaxing effect, promoting improved feelings of well-being. Rhodiola rosea has been clinically shown to improve attention, cognitive function, and mental performance, decrease the cortisol response to stress, exert an anti-fatigue effect, enhance anaerobic exercise performance, and improve mood. It is also a potential safety factor for SSRIs.