For an herb to qualify as an adaptogen or a tonic herb, an herb must be completely safe and non-toxic.  it must also have varied uses for health, and it must specifically reduce stress, on both mental and physical levels. To simplify.. Adaptogens assist you to adapt. The following herbs (in alphabetical order) are examples of tonic herbs which demonstrate significant adaptogenic activity:
Ashwagandha: Of all the medicinal plants used in India’s several millennia old ancient tradition of Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is considered extremely valuable and highly prized.
Eleuthero: Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to vitalize sexual function, boost life energy and stabilize overall body functions, Eleuthero is classified as an adaptogen, enhancing wellness and vitality.
Tulsi (also known as Tulsi) works as an adaptogen to increase the body’s natural response to physical and emotional stress. Adaptogenic herbs do not alter mood, but rather, they help the body function at it’s best during stressful times.
Maca: Maca, sometimes known as “Peruvian ginseng,” though it bears no relation to ginseng. But like ginseng, the root increases energy, stamina,strength, libido and sexual function.
Panax Ginseng: Ginseng is a tonic herb applied to rejuvenate and invigorate. It is considered an adaptogen, providing non-specific protection against different types mental, physical and environmental type stressors.
Rhodiola: An adaptogen which has been well studied, Rhodiola defends the body overall, and protects general health and well-being.
Schisandra: Schisandra is a strong general tonic, lowering fatigue, enhancing physical performance, and promoting endurance. The berry counters stress by reducing the levels of stress hormones in the blood.
Adaptogens greatly improve your body’s ability to adapt to stress, whether it’s a hectic schedule, heat or cold, noise, high altitudes or any number of other stressors. This elite class of herbs impart strength, energy, stamina, endurance, and they improve mental clarity.