What is an adaptogen?

Adaptogens are a group of plants, berries and mushrooms that help the body regain its natural balance and adapt to the different types of stress it may be subjected to, whether emotional , physical, biological or even environmental.

To be qualified as an "adaptogen", a plant must meet the following three characteristics:

1. Generalized action on the organism: even if each of the adaptogenic plants has its specificities in terms of benefits, their common point is to improve in a general and lasting way the resistance of the organism to all the types of stress to which it can face

2. Normalizing effect : Adaptogens have a regulating and balancing effect on the organism and act in a bidirectional way to strengthen or calm it according to its current state. Unlike some stimulants like coffee, there are no "up & down" effects but rather a stable and lasting action, throughout the day

3. Absence of toxicity: absolutely safe to use and no observed side effects

What is the history of adaptogens?

Although adaptogens have been used for thousands of years in traditional and energetic medicine around the world (Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, Native American medicine, etc.), the first research on them was carried out in the 1940s by a team of eminent researchers. At that time and in order to extend its political, military, intellectual or sporting domination, the government of the Soviet Union was looking for natural tonics which would give a certain advantage to its elites, in particular its military officers, its politicians , its Olympic athletes or even its chess players and dancers. In 1947, the term "adaptogen" or "resistogen" was officially coined by researcher Dr. Nikolai V. Lazarev. Accompanied by Dr. Israel I. Breckmann, they will bring together more than 2,000 scientists, biologists, and physicists to sift through 4,000 plants and finally come up with a list of 12 adaptogens (there are now around twenty of them) responding to the three main characteristics.

Today, thanks to scientific research which has intensified and which attests to their benefits, adaptogens are increasingly used by oriental medicines as part of gentle therapies, or even as an accompaniment heavier treatments, so as to relieve the side effects that may be associated with them. Their scope of application is still vast and we are still only at the beginning of research into the prowess of which these plants are capable.

What are their benefits?

While all adaptogens help your body cope with the challenges it may encounter on a daily basis, each adaptogen has a unique profile and set of incredible properties. Some are more uplifting (like Ginseng or Maca), some are more balancing (like Ashwagandha), some are more calming and soothing (like Reishi or Holy Basil) while others are packed with antioxidants ( such as Amla).

Whether it's to boost your energy level, your concentration or your mood, purify your skin or your body, strengthen your immune defences, reduce feminine disorders or regain serenity, a combination of Hygea adaptogens exists.

NB: as powerful as adaptogens are, they obviously do not replace a healthy lifestyle which should be the foundation of your health and well-being , including having good sleep, a varied and balanced diet and regular physical activity.

We have carefully selected the different adaptogens contained in our products for their specific benefits but also and above all for their ability to magnify each other when used in synergy. To do this, our scientific team conducted an exhaustive review of the bibliography. We always choose the highest quality ingredients available on the market. Finally, we take care each time to select the producers who are the most respectful of their culture.