Volume: 4, 2025
4th International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: H006
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL4.H006
Published online: 9 April 2025
ICDSUPL, 4, H006 (2025)
The impact of adaptogenic plants on stress reduction
Gabriela Gutowska-Kurant1*, Małgorzata Kostecka1
1 Department of Chemistry, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
* Corresponding author: gabriela.gutowska-kurant@up.lublin.pl
Abstract
The impact of adaptogenic plants on stress reduction. Stress is the body’s response to stimuli from the environment, which can be both positive and negative. The body responds to these stimuli by secreting hormones such as corticotropin, adrenaline, and cortisol, which regulate various physiological processes, including heart function, the respiratory system, and metabolism. The hormone cortisol is responsible for mobilizing energy in stressful situations, while adrenaline increases heart rate and blood pressure, allowing the body to better adapt to new environmental conditions. Stress can be divided into two main types: eustress and distress. Eustress mobilizes the body to act, stimulating motivation and improving performance. It is an adaptive response that helps achieve goals. On the other hand, distress is associated with the chronic activation of the body’s defense mechanisms, which can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and mental disorders, including anxiety and depression. Contemporary research shows that an increasing number of people experience chronic distress, which negatively impacts their physical and mental health. Therefore, focusing on effective stress reduction methods has become an important public health issue. One such approach is the use of adaptogens—plant substances that show potential in reducing the effects of stress. The materials and methods used in the research involved a literature review on stress, adaptogens, and available databases. Among the identified adaptogenic plants, such as ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Rhodiola rosea, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), it has been shown that they have documented stress-reducing properties, alleviate anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Specifically, ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea exhibit antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, which may help reduce symptoms associated with chronic stress. The conclusions from the literature review indicate that adaptogens, such as ashwagandha, Rhodiola rosea, lemon balm, and lavender, may have the potential to effectively alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, and insomnia. However, further research is needed, particularly long-term studies, to more accurately determine their effectiveness and safety. It is also worth considering their use in the context of adjunctive therapy for the treatment of chronic stress and related disorders.
Keywords: adaptogens, stress, ashawagadha, cortisol
How to cite
G. Gutowska-Kurant, M. Kostecka, 2025. The impact of adaptogenic plants on stress reduction. In: 4th International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL4.H006