Summary
ETV Bharat / health
Explained: What Are Adaptogens And Why They Could Be The Answer To Stress, Sleep, And Digestion Troubles
If theres one thing that has become a constant companion of the modern-day lifestyle, it is stress. It often accompanies poor sleep, as well as indigestion or gut issues. W…
Source: ETV Bharat
AI News Q&A (Free Content)
Q1: What are adaptogens, and why are they considered beneficial for stress management?
A1: Adaptogens are substances used in herbal medicine believed to stabilize physiological processes and promote homeostasis, particularly helping the body manage stress. Although not officially recognized by mainstream science, these substances are often used to mitigate stress-related issues by enhancing the body's resilience to stressors.
Q2: How do adaptogens influence sleep quality according to recent studies?
A2: Recent studies on adaptogens like Ashwagandha suggest they can improve sleep quality by enhancing hormonal balance and reducing stress levels. Ashwagandha, in particular, has shown to improve sleep quality in older adults by reducing inflammatory markers and promoting relaxation.
Q3: What is the historical significance of adaptogens in traditional medicine?
A3: Adaptogens have a rich history in traditional medicine, particularly in practices like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. They have been used for thousands of years to improve vitality and longevity, often referred to as Rasayanas or rejuvenators in Ayurvedic texts.
Q4: Can adaptogens be considered a safe alternative for digestion issues?
A4: While adaptogens are often touted for their digestive benefits, scientific evidence on their safety and efficacy is limited. Some adaptogens are believed to support digestive health by reducing stress-induced digestive issues, but more research is needed to substantiate these claims.
Q5: What are the potential geroprotective benefits of Ashwagandha as an adaptogen?
A5: Ashwagandha has been recognized for its potential geroprotective benefits, which include enhancing telomerase activity, reducing oxidative stress, and improving cognitive function. These benefits contribute to healthier aging by targeting key hallmarks of the aging process.
Q6: Are there any regulatory concerns associated with the marketing of adaptogens?
A6: Yes, the term 'adaptogen' is not approved for marketing in the European Union or the United States. Regulatory authorities are cautious as there is insufficient scientific evidence to fully support the health claims associated with adaptogens.
Q7: What recent scholarly findings highlight the economic implications of health shocks related to adaptogen usage?
A7: Recent scholarly work indicates that health shocks have long-term adverse economic effects, particularly among those in poor health, and can increase disparity in asset accumulation. Although not specific to adaptogens, these findings emphasize the broader economic impacts of health interventions.
References:
- Adaptogen - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adaptogen
- Enhancing healthspan with Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): a comprehensive review of its multifaceted geroprotective benefits - https://arxiv.org/abs/2025.09.08
- A Systematic and Ethnobotanical Review of Ashwagandha's (Withania Somnifera) Teratogenic and Abortifacient Potentials - https://arxiv.org/abs/2025.08.31
- Web data mining for public health purposes - https://arxiv.org/abs/2019.05.02
- The welfare effects of nonlinear health dynamics - https://arxiv.org/abs/2024.03.22
