Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System
Panossian A, Wikman G
Published in Pharmaceuticals
Abstract
Comprehensive review of adaptogen mechanisms in the central nervous system, including effects on stress response and neuroprotection.
Methodology
Narrative review of preclinical mechanistic work and clinical studies of adaptogenic plants.
Key Findings
Reviews evidence that adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus and Schisandra chinensis act on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and stress-activated protein kinase / heat shock protein pathways, producing stimulating and anti-fatigue effects on mental performance under stress in a number of small clinical studies.
Conclusions
Adaptogens have a plausible stress-axis mechanism and preliminary clinical support for reducing fatigue and improving mental performance under stress, but the human evidence base is small.
Limitations
Narrative review without systematic search; underlying human trials are small, short, often industry-linked and heterogeneous in preparation and dose.
Supplements Studied
Reviews evidence that adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus and Schisandra chinensis act on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and stress-activated protein kinase / heat shock protein pathways, producing stimulating and anti-fatigue effects on mental performance under stress in a number of small clinical studies.
Reviews evidence that adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus and Schisandra chinensis act on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and stress-activated protein kinase / heat shock protein pathways, producing stimulating and anti-fatigue effects on mental performance under stress in a number of small clinical studies.
Reviews evidence that adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus and Schisandra chinensis act on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and stress-activated protein kinase / heat shock protein pathways, producing stimulating and anti-fatigue effects on mental performance under stress in a number of small clinical studies.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Swedish Herbal Institute Research and Development (authors affiliated with the institute).
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