5 Underrated Adaptogens Worth Knowing

Let’s talk about stress. Not the occasional, “I forgot my password again” kind, but the daily grind most of us carry in our nervous systems like background noise. It’s the long to-do lists, the 3 p.m. energy dip, the edge in your voice you didn’t mean to have.

Enter: adaptogens.

Adaptogens are herbs, roots, and fungi that help your body handle stress. Not by numbing you out or giving you a quick spike of energy, but by supporting your system at a deeper level. They work with your body’s HPA axis, the network that manages your stress hormones, and help bring things back to center. Some calm you down, others energize you, but the real magic is in how they support balance over time.

Ashwagandha and reishi might be the popular kids, but there are plenty of lesser-known adaptogens worth getting familiar with. Here are five you might not have met yet, but probably should.

Shou Wu (He Shou Wu)

Used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, this root is believed to support liver and kidney health, encourage circulation, and improve vitality overall. Some also turn to it for promoting healthy hair and skin, thanks to its antioxidant content.

Why it’s interesting:

• Contains compounds that may reduce oxidative stress in the body

• Often used to support detox pathways and calm the nervous system

• Said to support better sleep and graceful aging

A quick note: sourcing matters. Shou Wu can be contaminated with heavy metals if not prepared properly, so know your supplier and don’t overdo it.

Schisandra Berries

Tiny but mighty, schisandra berries are a staple in both traditional Chinese and modern herbal practice. They support your adrenal glands and help your body respond to both mental and physical stress. They’ve even been studied for improving cognitive function and endurance.

What they may support:

• Brain function and mental clarity

• Endurance and physical performance

• Skin resilience and environmental stress response

• Respiratory health

They have a tangy, complex flavor and are often used in teas or tinctures. If you’re juggling a lot or recovering from burnout, schisandra is worth exploring.

Rhodiola Rosea (Arctic Root)

This high-altitude root helps with energy, mood, and mental performance. It’s been studied for its ability to regulate cortisol and support resilience during stress. Some people notice they sleep better, focus longer, or just feel more level when using rhodiola.

Common uses include:

• Reducing fatigue and brain fog

• Supporting physical endurance

• Helping regulate appetite and weight caused by stress

• Supporting balanced cortisol levels

It’s also shown promise for mild depression and is sometimes used in high-stakes professions like aviation and emergency response.

Eleuthero Root (Siberian Ginseng)

Despite the ginseng name, this plant has its own unique profile. Eleuthero supports energy, immune function, and recovery from both physical and mental exertion. Some athletes use it to improve stamina, especially when training at higher altitudes.

Potential benefits:

• Immune system support

• Increased focus and clarity under pressure

• Better recovery after physical stress

• May ease symptoms of adrenal fatigue

If you’re someone who pushes hard and rests little, this root can be a helpful ally. But avoid it if you have high blood pressure, and as always, check with a healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.

Cordyceps Militaris

This adaptogenic mushroom supports cellular energy and oxygen uptake. It’s known for helping increase stamina and reduce fatigue, which makes it a go-to for those feeling drained. It’s also been studied for immune support and recovery.

What it’s known for:

• Enhancing ATP (cellular energy) production

• Reducing inflammation

• Supporting healthy cholesterol and liver function

• Pairing well with other functional mushrooms for synergistic effects

It might be the most surprising on the list, especially since it grows in unusual ways. But when properly cultivated, it’s a powerful and versatile adaptogen.

Will You Be Trying Any of These?

Adaptogens don’t override your body. They work with it. They’re not a cure-all, but they’re deeply supportive when used with intention and consistency. The more you get to know these plants, the more you realize how much they’ve been quietly helping people long before they became a trend.

If you’re curious to explore more, start slow. Try one. Pay attention. That’s how plant medicine works best.

And if you’ve already been working with adaptogens, what’s your favorite lesser-known one? I’d love to hear what’s working for you.