They are often attributed almost magical properties, but pharmacists remind that there is no single capsule to solve all well-being problems.
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According to pharmacist Agnė Mačiulskaitė quoted in the press release of “Gintarinė vaistinė”, in recent years, public interest in adaptogens, functional mushrooms, and so-called longevity supplements has clearly increased.
“People increasingly ask not only about immune-boosting agents or vitamins to compensate for certain deficiencies. They come to the pharmacy looking for supplements that would help them feel better daily: to have more energy, concentrate more easily, sleep better, or maintain emotional well-being. The most frequently asked about are ashwagandha, lion’s mane, cordyceps, reishi mushrooms, and maca root,” she lists.
Why is their popularity growing?
According to the pharmacist, several reasons explain the popularity of these supplements. One is the increasing fatigue, stress, sleep disorders, and the desire to find more natural ways to maintain daily well-being. Another reason is social networks, where supplements are often discussed very simplistically, highlighting only possible benefits and omitting limitations.
“Adaptogens are plant-based substances associated with the body’s ability to adapt to stress. This group often includes ashwagandha, rhodiola, ginseng, and maca. Functional mushrooms, such as cordyceps, reishi, or lion’s mane, are also often presented as means to support energy, concentration, immune system, or calmer well-being,” says A. Mačiulskaitė.
However, she emphasizes that such supplements should be discussed cautiously – their effects are not the same for everyone, and the quality of scientific evidence varies.
“Some adaptogens or functional mushrooms have a history of traditional use, and more research is being conducted, but there is still a lack of large-scale clinical trials that clearly confirm their effects on different groups of people. Therefore, it is important not to overestimate the promises. They can be an auxiliary means to support well-being, but not a quick solution for all problems,” explains the pharmacist.
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It may help some, others may feel nothing
Ashwagandha is most often associated with stress management, calmer well-being, and sleep quality. Cordyceps is popular among those seeking more energy or better physical performance, reishi is often chosen to support relaxation, and lion’s mane is linked to concentration and cognitive functions. However, according to the pharmacist, when taking any of these supplements, it is important to understand that the effect depends on the body.
“Adaptogens are usually not substances whose effect a person feels after taking one capsule. Their effect is more often evaluated after several weeks, for example, after 2–6 weeks of use. But even then, the result can be very individual. Factors influencing this include genetics, microbiota, overall stress level, sleep quality, nutrition, and other daily habits. What worked well for a friend may not necessarily work the same for another person,” notes A. Mačiulskaitė.
A supplement will not replace sleep and nutrition
The interviewee says that a common situation in the pharmacy is a person looking for an energy booster, but during the conversation, it becomes clear that they have been sleeping poorly for a long time, eating irregularly, experiencing a lot of stress, or have been feeling constant fatigue for some time.
“In such cases, it is important not to forget that dietary supplements are not intended to treat diseases and should not replace a balanced diet, rest, or a doctor’s consultation. Fatigue, lack of energy, bad mood, hair loss, or sleep problems may be related not only to lifestyle but also to iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, long-term stress, or burnout,” notes the pharmacist.
According to A. Mačiulskaitė, supplements can be useful when chosen purposefully, not just based on social media recommendations.
“If a person feels tired for a few days after an intense period, that is one situation. But if fatigue, poor well-being, or sleep disorders persist for a long time, recur constantly, or interfere with daily life, it is first worth looking for the cause. Sometimes what is needed is not a new supplement but blood tests, a doctor’s consultation, or lifestyle changes,” she says.
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