This review deals with the stress-protective effect of adaptogensin particular Rhodiola rosea, Schisandra chinensis and Eleutherococcus senticosus. Adaptogens are plant substances that increase the body’s non-specific resistance to stress. Studies show that they have neuroprotective, antifatigue, antidepressant, anxiety-relieving and cognition-enhancing effects. can have.
The mechanisms of adaptogens are based on the regulation of the stress response, in particular by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system (HPA axis). They act through:
- Increase in heat shock proteins (Hsp70), which protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress,
- Inhibition of stress signaling pathways (e.g. JNK1, FOXO, cortisol, NO),
- Increase in energy production (ATP synthesis) and
- Modulation of the immune system.
Clinical studies show that adaptogens improve mental performance in stressful situations and increase stress tolerance. However, long-term studies are required to determine their optimal dosage and long-term effects.
Conclusion: Adaptogens could serve as natural anti-stress agents could play a role in the prevention and treatment of stress-related diseases.
Background:
The term adaptogen was coined in the 1960s and describes herbal substances that increase the body’s resistance to stress without disrupting normal physiological functions. The effect is based on the modulation of the body’s stress response, in particular by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system (HPA axis).
The aim of this review is to analyze the molecular mechanisms and clinical effects of adaptogens on the central nervous system.
Molecular mechanisms of adaptogens
Adaptogens regulate the stress response at various levels:
1. Increase in heat shock proteins (Hsp70):
- Protects cells from oxidative stress and prevents cell damage.
- Supports the regeneration of damaged proteins.
2. Inhibition of stress signaling pathways:
- Reduction of JNK1 (c-Jun-N-terminal kinase), an enzyme that triggers cell stress.
- Modulation of the forkhead transcription factor FOXO, which regulates cell resistance to stress.
- Reduction of cortisol, which reduces the negative effects of chronic stress.
- Inhibition of nitric oxide (NO), which plays a role in cell fatigue.
3. Increase in ATP production (energy supply):
- Adaptogens stimulate mitochondrial function and improve cell energy production.
4. Influence on the immune system:
- Adaptogens have an immunomodulating effect and can reduce susceptibility to infections.
Clinical studies on adaptogens
1. improvement of mental performance:
- Studies show that Rhodiola rosea can increase mental alertness and the ability to concentrate when tired.
- In several studies, the intake of Schisandra chinensis and Eleutherococcus senticosus led to increased stress resistance and faster recovery after mental exhaustion.
2. reduction of stress and fatigue:
- Rhodiola rosea reduced subjective stress symptoms and fatigue in clinical studies, especially during intense mental or physical exertion.
- A study of patients with chronic fatigue showed a significant improvement in fatigue symptoms after taking Eleutherococcus senticosus.
3. protection against stress-related illnesses:
- Adaptogens lowered cortisol levels in studies and could therefore offer protection against stress-related illnesses such as depression, anxiety disorders and burnout.
- Studies show that Schisandra chinensis has neuroprotective properties that could potentially be useful in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Discussion and conclusion
Adaptogens do not act as stimulants, but increase physical and mental stress resistance. Their effects include:
✔ Protection of the nervous system by inhibiting stress signaling pathways.
✔ Increase in mental performance and stress tolerance.
✔ Regulation of the immune system to prevent stress-related illnesses.
Future research:
- Further long-term studies are needed to determine the optimal dosage and potential long-term effects.
- The individual response to adaptogens varies, so that personalized approaches in phytotherapy should be researched.
Conclusion:
Adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea, Schisandra chinensis and Eleutherococcus senticosus have significant stress-protective properties. You could use a natural alternative for the prevention and treatment of stress and exhaustion.