Adaptogens and Nootropics: What Are They & What's The Difference?

When selecting the right supplement to support your specific needs, whether you want to reduce stress or enhance cognitive function, there can be a lot of information and products to navigate through. The latest classification of herbs and supplements that have stress-relief seekers headed to supplement aisles is a group of supplements touted as “nootropics.” If you haven’t heard about nootropics or you’re unsure how they differ from adaptogens, you are not alone! Quick summary: Adaptogens are known for helping your body adapt to situations, whereas a nootropic can help “turn/bend the mind.” The term nootropic was coined in the 1960’s by Romanian chemist Corneliu Giurgea , and has roots in the Greek words for “mind” (noos) and “bend or turn” ( tropein).  Let’s explore what it means to “turn the mind” and how the health benefits of nootropics compare with adaptogens.

What is an Adaptogen?

When you’re feeling stressed, nature’s answer is the adaptogen. Our bodies undergo different types of stress every day, such as from environmental stressors or the work grind. Your body handles stress by working to respond and rebalance. Sometimes stress can feel mentally or physically overwhelming, and this is where the mighty adaptogen can help.

Benefits of Adaptogens

If you’re feeling pervasive stress, adaptogens can help by balancing the production of stress hormones, like cortisol. The benefits of adaptogens are many, but many people struggle to find the right adaptogen to help support their particular needs. Not all adaptogens have the same effect, so finding your herb can be crucial to an adaptogen’s success.