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Adaptogenic and Stress-Relieving Herbs in Mental Health

Sachin, K. Hodgar Sanket A., Bombale Sarthak S., Kshirsagar

Vaishnavi V.,

Ghule

Sinare Akshay R.

Dr kolpe Institute of Pharmacy, Kolpewadi kopargaon.

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.101100026

Received: 12 November 2025; Accepted: 20 November 2025; Published: 06 December 2025

ABSTRACT

Mental health disorders such as stress, anxiety, and depression have become a major global concern,

significantly affecting quality of life and productivity. Conventional pharmacological treatments, although

effective, are often associated with adverse effects and long-term dependency. In recent years, adaptogenic

and stress-relieving herbs have gained growing attention as safer, holistic alternatives in the management of

mental health disorders. Adaptogens are natural substances that enhance the body’s resilience to physical,

emotional, and environmental stressors by modulating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and

maintaining homeostasis. Herbs such as Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi),

Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Panax ginseng (Ginseng), and Rhodiola rosea have demonstrated promising results

in reducing stress, improving cognition, regulating neurotransmitter activity, and protecting against oxidative

damage. Several clinical studies support their role in alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress-

related disorders, with minimal side effects. However, standardization, dosage optimization, and large-scale

clinical validation remain challenges for their wider acceptance in modern medicine. This review aims to

highlight the pharmacological mechanisms, therapeutic benefits, and clinical evidence of adaptogenic herbs in

promoting mental well-being, thereby offering a natural and sustainable approach to mental health care.

Keywords: Adaptogens, Stress-relieving herbs, mental health, Anxiety, Depression, Herbal medicine

INTRODUCTION

Background and Global Burden of Mental Health Disorders

Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall health and well-being. Disorders

such as stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia have emerged as major public health challenges worldwide.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in every eight individuals suffers from a mental

disorder, with stress-related conditions being among the most prevalent. Chronic psychological stress

negatively influences quality of life, work productivity, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. It is

also strongly associated with lifestyle diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders.In

modern society, rapid urbanization, intense occupational pressure, competitive lifestyles, and exposure to

digital media have contributed significantly to the rising prevalence of stress and anxiety. The COVID-19

pandemic further highlighted the vulnerability of mental health, with millions of individuals reporting

increased psychological stress, burnout, and emotional instability. If left untreated, stress-related mental

health conditions may lead to substance abuse, suicidal tendencies, and long-term disability. Thus, the

prevention and effective management of stress and anxiety have become urgent priorities for healthcare

systems across the globe.

Limitations of Conventional Therapies

Conventional pharmacological treatments for stress and mental health disorders include antidepressants,

anxiolytics, sedatives, and antipsychotics. While these drugs offer symptomatic relief, their prolonged use is

often associated with limitations. Many patients experience adverse effects such as drowsiness, dependency,

weight gain, gastrointestinal disturbances, and cognitive dullness. Furthermore, withdrawal symptoms and the

risk of relapse remain significant concerns.Another important limitation is the lack of holistic action. Most

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Synthetic drugs target specific neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, or gamma-aminobutyric acid

(GABA). However, stress is a multifactorial condition involving hormonal imbalances, oxidative stress,

immune dysfunction, and neuronal damage. This complexity cannot be addressed adequately by single-target

drugs, necessitating the search for safer and more comprehensive therapeutic strategies.

Emergence of Adaptogens as Natural Alternatives

In the last few decades, there has been a paradigm shift towards the use of herbal and natural medicines for

mental health management. Among these, adaptogens have gained remarkable attention. The term

“adaptogen” was first introduced in the mid-20th century to describe substances that enhance the body’s

nonspecific resistance to stress and help maintain internal homeostasis. Adaptogens are defined as natural

compounds that improve the body’s ability to adapt to physical, chemical, and psychological stressors,

without causing significant side effects.Unlike conventional drugs, adaptogens act through a multifaceted

mechanism. They regulate the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, normalize stress hormone levels

(particularly cortisol), and enhance the resilience of the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.

Additionally, adaptogens protect neurons from oxidative damage, modulate inflammatory pathways, and

improve mitochondrial energy production, thereby enhancing mental performance under stressful conditions.

Role of Adaptogenic and Stress-Relieving Herbs in Mental Health

Traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Traditional Chinese Medicine have long

recognized the therapeutic value of adaptogenic herbs. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Bacopa monnieri

(Brahmi), Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Panax ginseng (Ginseng), and Rhodiola rosea are among the most

extensively studied adaptogens with clinically proven stress-relieving properties. These herbs exert anxiolytic,

antidepressant, and neuroprotective effects through multiple pathways.For instance, Ashwagandha has been

shown to reduce cortisol levels and improve sleep quality, while Brahmi enhances memory and reduces

anxiety. Tulsi, a sacred Ayurvedic herb, supports overall resilience against emotional stress and oxidative

imbalance. Similarly, Ginseng and Rhodiola are well-documented for improving mental clarity, reducing

fatigue, and restoring work efficiency under stressful conditions. Importantly, these herbs provide long-term

benefits with minimal adverse effects, making them suitable as complementary or alternative interventions in

mental health care.

Need for Review and Future Perspectives

Despite centuries of traditional use, scientific validation of adaptogens is still evolving. Recent preclinical and

clinical studies have provided strong evidence for their role in regulating neurotransmitters, protecting

neurons, and improving emotional well-being. However, challenges such as lack of standardization, dosage

optimization, and large-scale randomized controlled trials limit their acceptance in mainstream medicine.

Concept of Adaptogens:

Definition and Characteristics

The term adaptogen was first introduced by Russian scientist N.V. Lazarev in 1947 to describe natural

substances that enhance the body’s nonspecific resistance to stress. Later, Brekhman and Dardymov (1969)

refined the definition, emphasizing that adaptogens are agents that increase the state of non-specific resistance

in stress, have a normalizing effect regardless of the direction of change, and are essentially harmless to the

physiological systems of the body. In simpler terms, adaptogens are herbal substances that help an organism

adapt to various physical, chemical, or psychological stressors while maintaining homeostasis.

To qualify as an adaptogen, a substance must meet three essential criteria:

1. Non-specific activity – It should increase resistance to a wide range of stressors, including physical,

emotional, and environmental.

2. Normalizing effect – It should restore physiological balance irrespective of the direction of the imbalance

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(whether stress causes hyperactivity or hypoactivity).

3. Safety – It must not disturb normal body functions or cause harmful side effects, even during prolonged

use.

Mechanisms of Action

The mechanisms through which adaptogens exert their effects are complex and multifactorial. One of the

primary pathways involves modulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, the central

stress response system of the body. By regulating cortisol secretion and adrenal gland function, adaptogens

help maintain hormonal balance under stressful conditions.

Apart from HPA axis modulation, adaptogens act through the following mechanisms:

 Neurotransmitter regulation:

They influence gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin,

dopamine, and norepinephrine levels, which play critical roles in mood regulation and anxiety control.

 Antioxidant activity: Adaptogens reduce oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals and enhancing

endogenous antioxidant defenses, thereby protecting neurons from stress-induced damage.

 Anti-inflammatory effects: Many adaptogens inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are elevated

during chronic stress and depression.

 Mitochondrial protection: By enhancing mitochondrial energy metabolism, adaptogens improve

physical endurance and mental performance under stress.

 Immunomodulation: Certain adaptogens stimulate immune responses, thereby counteracting the

immunosuppressive effects of chronic stress.

Historical Background

The use of adaptogenic plants is deeply rooted in traditional medical systems. In Ayurveda, herbs such as

Ashwagandha and Brahmi were classified as Rasayana – rejuvenating agents that promote longevity, strength,

and mental clarity. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Panax ginseng and Schisandra chinensis were

widely used to restore energy, enhance vitality, and strengthen resistance against disease. Similarly, in

Russian folk medicine, plants like Rhodiola rosea were consumed to combat fatigue and improve endurance

in harsh climates.

The scientific concept of adaptogens gained recognition during World War II and the Cold War era, when

researchers in the Soviet Union studied natural substances to enhance the stamina, performance, and

resilience of soldiers, pilots, and athletes. Since then, the concept has evolved and gained acceptance

worldwide, with increasing evidence from pharmacological and clinical studies supporting their role in stress

management and mental health care.

Significance in Mental Health

Chronic stress disrupts the delicate balance between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, often

leading to anxiety, depression, insomnia, and cognitive impairment. Adaptogens provide a holistic solution by

simultaneously targeting multiple biological systems. Unlike synthetic drugs, which typically act on a single

neurotransmitter pathway, adaptogens act as network pharmacology agents, offering broad-spectrum benefits.

Their ability to regulate stress hormones, enhance neuronal resilience, and improve mood makes them

particularly valuable in modern mental health care.

Major Adaptogenic and Stress-Relieving Herbs in Mental Health:

Adaptogenic herbs have been extensively studied for their potential role in alleviating stress and improving

mental health. These herbs act through multiple pharmacological pathways, including modulation of the

hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, regulation of neurotransmitters, and reduction of oxidative and

inflammatory stress. The following are some of the most widely recognized adaptogens with significant

mental health benefits:

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Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)

Ashwagandha, commonly known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is one of the most important Rasayana

herbs in Ayurveda. It has long been used for its rejuvenating and stress-relieving properties.

Fig 1- Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)

 Pharmacological Actions: Ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels, balances HPA axis function, and acts

as an anxiolytic and antidepressant.

 Mechanism: Enhances GABAergic signaling, reduces oxidative stress, and improves sleep quality.

 Evidence: Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing stress, improving cognitive

function, and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)

Brahmi has been traditionally used in Ayurveda as a brain tonic for enhancing memory and concentration.

Fig : 2-Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)



Pharmacological Actions: Exhibits anxiolytic, antidepressant, and neuroprotective properties.



Mechanism: Modulates serotonin and dopamine pathways, reduces free radical damage, and enhances

neuronal communication.



Evidence: Several studies indicate its effectiveness in reducing stress and improving learning ability,

making it useful for both cognitive enhancement and stress-related mental disorders.

Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi / Holy Basil)

Tulsi is revered as a sacred plant in India and is widely recognized for its adaptogenic and therapeutic

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properties.

Fig : 3-Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi / Holy Basil)



Pharmacological Actions: Acts as an anti-stress, anxiolytic, and antidepressant agent.



Mechanism: Reduces cortisol levels, enhances antioxidant defenses, and stabilizes blood sugar and

hormonal levels during stress.



Evidence: Both experimental and clinical research highlight Tulsi’s role in reducing anxiety, fatigue,

and depression while promoting overall mental well-being.

Panax ginseng (Asian Ginseng)

Ginseng has been an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, known for improving vitality

and resilience.

Fig:4-Panax ginseng (Asian Ginseng)



Pharmacological Actions: Reduces mental fatigue, enhances cognitive performance, and alleviates

symptoms of depression.



Mechanism: Regulates neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin), modulates HPA axis, and improves

mitochondrial function.



Evidence: Randomized controlled trials suggest ginseng’s efficacy in improving mood, reducing

stress, and enhancing mental clarity, especially in high-pressure environments.

Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root)

Rhodiola is a well-known adaptogen used in Europe and Russia to combat fatigue and stress.

Fig : 5-Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root)

 Pharmacological Actions: Improves resilience to mental stress, reduces fatigue, and enhances work

performance.

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 Mechanism: Modulates serotonin and dopamine pathways, influences opioid peptides, and reduces

stress-induced oxidative damage.

 Evidence: Clinical studies show that Rhodiola supplementation reduces symptoms of stress, improves

attention span, and helps manage mild-to-moderate depression.

Convolvulus pluricaulis (Shankhpushpi)

Shankhpushpi is another Ayurvedic herb used traditionally to promote mental calmness and improve sleep.

Fig :6-Convolvulus pluricaulis (Shankhpushpi)

 Pharmacological Actions: Anxiolytic, nootropic, and mild sedative effects.

 Mechanism: Enhances GABAergic activity and reduces oxidative stress in the brain.

 Evidence: Preclinical and limited clinical evidence suggest its potential in anxiety, insomnia, and memory

enhancement.

Pharmacological Mechanisms of Adaptogens in Mental Health:

Adaptogens act through multiple biological pathways that collectively enhance the body’s ability to resist,

adapt, and recover from stress. Unlike conventional pharmacological agents that target a single receptor or

neurotransmitter, adaptogens exert multi-target actions across the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.

Regulation of the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal (HPA) Axis

The HPA axis plays a central role in the stress response. Stress activates the hypothalamus to release

corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotropic

hormone (ACTH). ACTH then triggers cortisol release from the adrenal cortex. Prolonged activation of this

pathway leads to elevated cortisol levels, causing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and impaired cognition.

 Adaptogens such as Ashwagandha and Rhodiola modulate HPA axis activity by reducing excessive

cortisol secretion.

 This results in the normalization of stress hormone levels, promoting calmness and mental stability.

Neurotransmitter Modulation

Neurotransmitters are critical regulators of mood, cognition, and behavior. Chronic stress often disrupts

neurotransmitter balance, leading to mental health disorders.

 Serotonin (5-HT): Adaptogens like Brahmi and Tulsi enhance serotonergic activity, reducing depression

and anxiety.

 Dopamine: Ginseng and Rhodiola influence dopaminergic signaling, improving motivation, mood, and

attention span.

 Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): Ashwagandha and Shankhpushpi exhibit GABA-mimetic effects,

producing anxiolytic and calming responses.

 Norepinephrine: Adaptogens restore norepinephrine balance, thereby reducing overactivation of the

sympathetic nervous system during stress.

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Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Activity

Oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and mental health

disorders. Excessive free radical production damages neuronal membranes, proteins, and DNA, resulting in

impaired synaptic transmission.

 Adaptogens like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Gotu kola possess potent antioxidant properties that

neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS).

 They enhance the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD),

catalase, and glutathione peroxidase.

 This neuroprotection supports cognitive health, prevents neuronal apoptosis, and enhances resilience

against stress.

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Chronic stress activates pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP), which are linked to depression,

anxiety, and cognitive decline. Neuroinflammation also contributes to impaired neurotransmitter function.



Tulsi, Ashwagandha, and Licorice demonstrate anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NF-κB signaling

and reducing cytokine release.



This suppression of neuroinflammation protects the brain from stress-induced damage and improves mood

stability.

Mitochondrial Protection and Energy Regulation

Stress leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, reducing ATP production and causing fatigue and mental

exhaustion.



Ginseng and Rhodiola improve mitochondrial bioenergetics, enhance ATP synthesis, and reduce

oxidative injury within mitochondria.



This mechanism explains their effectiveness in reducing fatigue, improving alertness, and enhancing

overall mental performance.

Immunomodulatory Effects

Stress suppresses immune function, making individuals more vulnerable to infections and illness. Adaptogens

restore immune balance and strengthen host defense mechanisms.

 Tulsi and Ashwagandha stimulate immune cells (natural killer cells, T-lymphocytes) while reducing

stress-induced immunosuppression.

 This dual action improves both psychological resilience and physical health.

Epigenetic and Genomic Effects (Emerging Evidence)

Recent studies indicate that adaptogens may influence gene expression related to stress response,

neurotransmission, and neuroplasticity.



Brahmi and Ginseng have been shown to upregulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which

enhances synaptic plasticity and learning ability.



These epigenetic effects highlight the potential long-term benefits of adaptogens in preventing stress-

related cognitive decline.

Clinical Evidence and Trials on Adaptogens in Mental Health:

The therapeutic potential of adaptogens in stress and mental health management has been supported by a

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growing body of preclinical and clinical research. Unlike traditional anecdotal evidence, modern studies have

provided scientific validation through randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, and meta-

analyses. This section highlights key clinical findings on major adaptogenic herbs.

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)

Ashwagandha has been extensively investigated in clinical studies for its stress-relieving and anxiolytic

effects.

 Study 1: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (n=64) showed that standardized

Ashwagandha root extract significantly reduced serum cortisol levels by 28% and improved scores on the

Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) within 60 days.

 Study 2: In patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Ashwagandha supplementation

demonstrated marked improvements in anxiety, fatigue, and sleep quality compared to placebo.

 Summary: Strong evidence supports Ashwagandha as a natural anxiolytic and adaptogen with excellent

safety and tolerability.

Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)

Traditionally used for enhancing memory, Brahmi has shown promising results in cognitive and stress-related

disorders.

 Study 1: A randomized trial in healthy adults reported that Brahmi extract improved information

processing, learning rate, and reduced anxiety scores over a 12-week period.

 Study 2: Clinical evidence suggests improvements in memory retention and reduced cortisol levels in

students during examination stress.

 Summary: Brahmi demonstrates dual benefits of cognitive enhancement and stress reduction, making it

useful in both healthy individuals and patients with mild anxiety.

Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi / Holy Basil)

Tulsi has been recognized as a potent adaptogen in both traditional practice and modern clinical research.

 Study 1: A clinical trial with 35 subjects suffering from generalized anxiety showed that Tulsi extract

significantly reduced anxiety and stress symptoms, along with improvement in mood and attention span.

 Study 2: Another study found that Tulsi supplementation improved sleep quality and reduced fatigue in

stressed adults.

 Summary: Tulsi shows consistent results in stress reduction, mental calmness, and enhancement of

resilience.

Panax ginseng

Ginseng has been investigated widely in Asian and Western populations for fatigue, mood, and cognition.

 Study 1: A placebo-controlled clinical trial (n=90) demonstrated that Panax ginseng supplementation

improved mental performance, working memory, and reduced perceived stress levels.

 Study 2: Another RCT in healthcare workers revealed improved quality of life and reduced burnout

scores after 8 weeks of supplementation.

 Summary: Ginseng is particularly effective in stress-related fatigue and cognitive decline.

Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola has gained attention in Europe and Russia for its anti-stress and antidepressant effects.

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 Study 1: A clinical trial involving 80 patients with stress-related fatigue reported significant improvement

in fatigue, concentration, and mood after Rhodiola extract administration.

 Study 2: An open-label study in patients with mild-to-moderate depression showed reduction in Hamilton

Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) scores comparable to standard antidepressants, with fewer side

effects.

 Summary: Rhodiola is effective in stress-induced fatigue, depression, and work-related exhaustion.

Other Adaptogens with Emerging Evidence

 Gotu kola (Centella asiatica): Reported to improve calmness and reduce anxiety in elderly patients.

 Valerian root: Widely studied for insomnia and anxiety, showing improvements in sleep latency and

quality.

 Shankhpushpi: Limited trials but positive outcomes in stress-induced insomnia and memory

enhancement.

Meta-analyses and Systematic Reviews

 Several meta-analyses suggest consistent anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of Ashwagandha, Ginseng,

and Rhodiola.

 Reviews highlight that adaptogens are generally well-tolerated, with fewer adverse effects compared to

synthetic anxiolytics and antidepressants.

 However, heterogeneity in dosage forms, lack of standardization, and small sample sizes remain

limitations.

CONCLUSION

 Adaptogenic herbs represent a valuable and scientifically validated approach to managing stress and

improving mental health. Unlike conventional pharmacological treatments, which often provide only

symptomatic relief and may cause adverse effects, adaptogens act holistically by enhancing the body’s

natural resilience to physical, psychological, and environmental stressors. Their ability to regulate the

hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, modulate neurotransmitter activity, and reduce oxidative

stress underlines their unique therapeutic potential.

 Herbs such as Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), Panax ginseng, Rhodiola

rosea, and Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) have consistently demonstrated efficacy in reducing anxiety,

improving mood, enhancing cognitive performance, and preventing stress-induced neurodegeneration.

Evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies strongly supports their role as safe, effective, and

sustainable alternatives or adjuncts to conventional therapies.

 The integration of adaptogenic and stress-relieving herbs into modern healthcare frameworks offers a

promising avenue for holistic mental health management. However, large-scale randomized clinical

trials, standardized dosing protocols, and long-term safety studies are still required to fully establish their

clinical utility. With growing global acceptance of herbal medicine, adaptogens may become a

cornerstone in bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary psychiatric care.

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