adaptogen

/ əˈdæptədʒən /

noun

1. any of various natural substances used in herbal medicine to normalize and regulate the systems of the body

Word History and Origins

Origin of adaptogen¹

C20: from adapt + -gen

Example Sentences

Though adaptogenic drinks are relatively new to Western consumers, the term “adaptogen” has been around since 1947, when it was coined by Soviet scientist Nikolai Lazarev, who was searching for stimulating substances during the Cold War.

From Los Angeles Times

Rhodiola is an adaptogen and really helps.

From Seattle Times

While ashwagandha has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, only recently has it become more popular in the United States, where it is marketed as a so-called "adaptogen" for enhancing one's life.

From Salon

It is used as an “adaptogen” to help combat stress.

From Seattle Times

Compost seems to act like an adaptogen for soil.

From Seattle Times