Comparative efficacy of adaptogens and phytosterols in enhancing stress resilience: a data-driven synthesis of psychological and physiological outcomes
Abstract
A critical assessment of both adaptogens and phytosterols as contributors to increased stress resilience will be presented with an emphasis on how both contribute to improved psychological and physiological dimensions of stress resiliency. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis also provides regulation of psychological and physiological processes known to contribute to resiliency through processes associated with HPA regulation, such as oxidative and inflammatory processes. Adaptogens, such as Withania somnifera (known as ashwagandha) and Rhodiola rosea are thought to support resiliency by regulating HPA axis function, boosting mitochondrial efficiency, and activating stress response signaling pathways (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and sirtuins). As a result of the mechanisms associated with these effects, individuals using adaptogens experience a decrease in anxiety, an increase in heart rate variability, and improved regulation of cortisol. On the other hand, phytosterols are primarily believed to exert benefits through physiological actions (i.e., lowering lipids and providing anti-inflammatory benefits) and improving mitochondrial quality through the mitochondrial clearance mechanism (mitophagy). There is currently little evidence to support the belief that phytosterols are beneficial for reducing stress from a psychological point of view. In summary, adaptogens appear to provide a greater range of benefit to both psychological (mental) and…
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