You’ve probably heard the buzzword “adaptogen” thrown around wellness circles, and yes, it sounds fancy but the science behind these plant-powered compounds is just as fascinating as the hype. Adaptogens are a unique class of herbs and mushrooms that help your body adapt to stress, fatigue, and mental load. Supporting focus, mood, and energy without the jitters or crashes of caffeine or sugar [1,2].

At their core, adaptogens work with your body, not against it. They modulate stress hormones, enhance cellular resilience, and support neurotransmitters (the chemicals that keep your brain working smoothly) [3,4].

Think of them as tiny coaches inside your cup, quietly helping your neurons, adrenal glands, and mitochondria perform at their best. That’s the idea of the BRAIN BAR by AKARI; each refreshment whether food or beverage, is focused on enhancing your wellbeing from the inside-out using quality ingredients like homemade macadamia milk, and you guessed it… adaptogens!

ADAPTOGENS THAT PACK A PUNCH

Let’s zoom in on some of the superstar adaptogens at the BRAIN BAR that each have a unique way of supporting your brain and body:

Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Brain Builder

Lion’s Mane is a neurogenesis hero. Its bioactive compounds stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), promoting the repair and growth of neurons. In other words, it helps your brain form new connections; think sharper memory, faster thinking, and better mental clarity [5,6].

Try it at the BRAIN BAR by ordering: Shroom for Thought

Reishi: The Nervous System Regulator

Reishi is famous for calming the nervous system and supporting immune balance. It helps your body respond to stress more effectively and promotes long-term resilience without sedation [7,8].

Try it at the BRAIN BAR by ordering: Soft Focus

Cordyceps: The Stamina Booster

Cordyceps supports mitochondrial function, oxygen utilisation, and endurance, giving your body a gentle, sustained lift for both physical and mental performance [9,10].

Try it at the BRAIN BAR by ordering: Brainwave Bounce

Visual ADAPTOGENS & BEYOND :(each ingredient and what it helps with)

Adaptogens don’t force the body into overdrive; they support it in finding balance. By working alongside the nervous system, brain chemistry, and cellular energy pathways, these plants help create the conditions for clearer thinking, steadier energy, and greater resilience over time.

At the BRAIN BAR by AKARI, each drink is designed with intention. Not to overstimulate, but to support how the body naturally functions best. Whether the goal is focus, calm, or sustained energy, adaptogens offer a grounded, science-backed way to support wellbeing, one sip at a time.

Scientific References

[1] Panossian, A., Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of adaptogens on the central nervous system and the molecular mechanisms associated with their stress-protective activity. Phytomedicine. [2] Panossian, A. (2017). Understanding adaptogenic activity: specificity, stress response, and homeostasis. Current Clinical Pharmacology. [3] Kim, Y.K., et al. (2018). Stress, neurotransmitters, and neuroplasticity. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry. [4] Moloney, R.D., et al. (2014). Stress-induced neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter changes. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. [5] Wong, K.H., et al. (2011). Neurotrophic properties of Hericium erinaceus in PC12 cells. Food & Function. [6] Li, I.C., et al. (2020). Neuroprotective effects of Lion’s Mane mushroom. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. [7] Gao, Y., et al. (2003). Protective effects of Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) on the nervous system and stress adaptation. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. [8] Boh, B., et al. (2007). Ganoderma lucidum: A medicinal mushroom with multiple beneficial properties. Food Reviews International. [9] Holliday, J., Cleaver, M. (2008). Cordyceps sinensis: An overview of its chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications. Alternative Medicine Review. [10] Zhu, J.S., et al. (1998). The scientific rediscovery of Cordyceps sinensis: Pharmacological and clinical applications. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. [11] Kim, H.G., et al. (2013). Ginseng and cognitive performance: A systematic review. Journal of Ginseng Research. [12] Reay, J.L., et al. (2005). Effects of Panax ginseng on cognitive performance and mental fatigue. Human Psychopharmacology.