Tincture Highlight: Understanding Adaptogens & Nootropics

In the evolving world of holistic wellness, two categories of botanicals have captured attention for their potential to nurture the mind and body: adaptogens and nootropics. Adaptogens are herbs, roots, or mushrooms that help the body resist stressors and restore equilibrium, often by modulating the stress response system. They enhance resistance to stress and promote adaptation. Nootropics are substances that improve cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and learning. Originally named for synthetic compounds, the term now includes natural options that boost brain health without the risks associated with stimulants.

While there is overlap (some adaptogens exhibit nootropic effects) their primary focuses are different. Adaptogens target holistic resilience, often influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to normalize cortisol levels. Nootropics hone in on neurological pathways, such as neurotransmitter modulation or neurogenesis. Let’s focus on  three powerful allies: Lion’s Mane (a nootropic mushroom), Reishi (an adaptogenic mushroom), and Ashwagandha (a classic adaptogen), exploring their traditional roots, scientific evidence, and how they differ from psychoactive substances.

Lion’s Mane: The Brain-Boosting Mushroom

Lion’s Mane (that shaggy, white mushroom that really does look like a lion’s mane) has been a go‑to in traditional Chinese and Japanese remedies for ages. People historically used it to support digestion, boost vitality, and fortify the spleen and stomach. Legend has it that monks even used it to sharpen focus during meditation. It was thought to nourish both mind and body.

Modern research highlights Lion’s Mane as a potent nootropic because of its compounds, hericenones and erinacines, which encourage your brain to make more nerve growth factor (NGF). A study in young adults in 2023 found that daily use helped them think faster and feel less stressed. In older adults dealing with mild cognitive issues, taking it for about 16 weeks helped improve memory and cognition. Some believe its brain-protecting perks, like reducing inflammation and helping rebuild myelin, might even help fend off neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.

In addition to cognitive benefits, Lion’s Mane offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, potentially helping gut health and immune function. All in all, Lion’s Mane offers a science-backed blend of brain-boosting, gut-soothing, and immunity-supporting benefits, making it a solid natural choice for anyone looking to feel sharper, calmer, and more balanced in their day-to-day life.

Reishi: The Mushroom of Immortality

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), known as "Lingzhi" in Chinese medicine, has been used for over 2,000 years for longevity and vitality. Traditionally, it was prescribed for boosting qi (life force), calming the mind, and treating things like asthma, coughs, and liver disorders. It is believed that emperors sought it for immortality, valuing its immune-strengthening and anti-aging properties.

As an adaptogen, Reishi helps regulate the immune system and stress response through triterpenes and polysaccharides. A 2023 meta-analysis showed it improves lower urinary tract symptoms in men and exerts mild antidiabetic effects. Studies show potential anticancer benefits, with compounds that inhibit tumor growth and enhance chemotherapy tolerance. Its antioxidant properties combat oxidative stress, supporting cardiovascular health and reducing fatigue. Reishi's adaptogenic effects also shine in stress management; studies show it lowers cortisol and improves sleep quality.

Ashwagandha: The Stress-Relieving Root

Ashwagandha (officially Withania somnifera) has been a go-to herb in Ayurveda for centuries. Believe it or not, its name literally means “smell of the horse,” nodding to its earthy scent and the idea that it gives you strength like one. Traditionally, people used it as a rejuvenating tonic, or rasayana, to boost vitality, support longevity, and address things like stress, sleeplessness, or fertility challenges.

Fast-forward to today, and science is picking up on what ancient healers long suspected. Ashwagandha is now considered a top-tier adaptogen: clinical trials show it can drop cortisol levels by up to around 30%, helping our bodies dial down stress. Systemic reviews have backed its perks for easing anxiety, improving sleep, and sharpening cognitive function. For fitness enthusiasts, studies have also shown that it can enhance VO₂ max and muscle strength in healthy adults. It also helps stabilize blood sugar and improve lipid levels. The magic lies in its withanolides, which pack anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.withanolides are often the most studied and potent bioactive compounds.These compounds are credited for much of Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic, anti-stress, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even anticancer effects.

Distinguishing from Psychoactive Substances

Unlike psychoactive substances, which alter perception and consciousness (e.g.psilocybin in mushrooms), adaptogens and nootropics like these herbs normalize bodily functions without inducing highs or dependency. Psychoactives often target serotonin or dopamine receptors for euphoric effects. Adaptogens, however, restore balance via the HPA axis, and nootropics enhance cognition subtly, without hallucinations. Research shows these herbs lack the intoxicating properties of psychoactives, making them suitable for daily use.

Adaptogens and nootropics offer natural ways to combat modern stressors and sharpen the mind. Lion’s Mane excels in cognitive enhancement, Reishi in immune and stress support, and Ashwagandha in overall vitality. If you’re curious to learn more about these and other herbal tinctures, visit us in Cañon City, CO to explore our collection of handcrafted herbal tinctures - each thoughtfully formulated to support everything from calm and clarity to vitality and recovery. We’d love to help you discover the natural allies that feel right for you and your wellness journey. 

Works cited or mention, and resources to explore further:

Bashir, A., Nabi, M., Tabassum, N., Afzal, S., & Ayoub, M. (2023). An updated review on phytochemistry and molecular targets of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha). Frontiers in pharmacology, 14, 1049334. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2023.1049334

Contato AG, Conte-Junior CA. Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus): A Neuroprotective Fungus with Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antimicrobial Potential-A Narrative Review. Nutrients. 2025;17(8):1307. Published 2025 Apr 9. doi:10.3390/nu17081307

Docherty, S., Doughty, F. L., & Smith, E. F. (2023). The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study. Nutrients, 15(22), 4842. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15224842 

Gómez Afonso, A., Fernandez-Lazaro, D., Adams, D. P., Monserdà-Vilaró, A., & Fernandez-Lazaro, C. I. (2023). Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) on Hematological and Biochemical Markers, Hormonal Behavior, and Oxidant Response in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review. Current nutrition reports, 12(3), 465–477. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-023-00481-0

Jin X, Ruiz Beguerie J, Sze DM, Chan GC. Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) for cancer treatment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;(6):CD007731. Published 2012 Jun 13. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD007731.pub2