So, What are Adaptogens anyway?

If you’ve spent any time scrolling wellness feeds lately, you’ve probably seen the word adaptogens floating around, usually paired with some claim about stress relief or energy balance. They sound trendy (and maybe a little mysterious), but the truth is that adaptogens are another example of modern science catching up with ancient wisdom.

At Tea Market, we believe what you sip should support you - body, mind, and mood. So let’s break down what these herbal powerhouses really are, and why they’re worth knowing about.

The Short Answer: Plants That Help You Handle Life

Adaptogens are a special class of herbs and mushrooms that help your body adapt (yep, that’s where the name comes from) to stress - physical, emotional, or environmental.

They don’t stimulate or sedate. They balance. They nudge your body gently toward that sweet middle ground where your energy, mood, and nervous system feel steady and resilient.

A Little History

Long before adaptogens became wellness buzzwords, they were core to traditional medicine systems:

• In Ayurveda, herbs like Ashwagandha were used to build vitality and inner strength.

• In Traditional Chinese Medicine, plants like Schisandra and Ginseng were considered tonics that enhance “qi,” or life force.

• Even modern herbalists see adaptogens as a bridge between body and mind, restoring rather than just treating.

Science began to catch up in the mid-20th century when researchers studying stress in astronauts preparing for space travel discovered these herbs helped the body maintain balance under extreme physical and mental pressure. Fast-forward to today and you’ll find adaptogens in teas, tonics, and even chocolate bars.

How They Work

Think of adaptogens as a “stress thermostat.” When life gets hot - deadlines, hormones, chaos - they help cool things down. When your energy dips, they gently lift you back up.

They do this by supporting your HPA axis, the communication loop between your brain and adrenal glands that controls your stress response. The result is better energy, a more stable mood, improved sleep, and a body that’s better equipped to bounce back.

Meet a Few of Our Favorites

• Ashwagandha: Grounding and restorative. Often called “the chill herb,” it helps reduce anxiety, balance cortisol, and support restful sleep.

• Schisandra Berry: Known as the “five-flavor fruit.” It supports liver health, enhances focus, and improves stamina.

• Ginger: The everyday hero. Warming, comforting, and anti-inflammatory, ginger supports digestion, circulation, and immunity - and brings cozy energy that balances body and mind.

• Functional Mushrooms: Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Cordyceps are nature’s multitaskers. They boost immunity, enhance focus, and support the body’s ability to handle both physical and mental stress.

Sip Your Way to Balance

If you’re curious to see what adaptogens can do for you, start with our A-Game blend - a

Tea Market original designed to help you feel calm, focused, and resilient. It’s caffeine-free, stress-supportive, and deliciously complex, featuring Ashwagandha and Schisandra with a bright hint of berry and just a touch of Lavender.

Think of it as your daily reminder that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s as simple as a cup of tea that helps you handle the day, whatever it brings.

While Adaptogens won’t erase stress (we wish), but they can help your body respond to it with more ease and less exhaustion. They’re nature’s subtle way of saying, “You’ve got this.”

So next time you feel stretched thin, skip the wine and reach for a cup of something that supports your whole system.

Happy Sipping!