Adaptogens are a fascinating group of ingredients that have been hotly demanded by consumers due to their stress-relieving qualities and versatile nature. These plants are making an extraordinary name for themselves within the plant community and are surpassing their "nicheness" in the food and beverage industry.

1. Ashwagandha

Native to the country of India, ashwagandha has a rich history of being used to nullify stress and induce a feeling of calmness. There are a myriad of products that have already been created with the plant (coffees, teas, capsules, etc.), and the powder itself can be used on toppings/mixed into meals like toast and yogurt respectively. It is being sold in small stores across the United States as well as by major retailers and the market is predicted to grow further.

2. Reishi

Like ashwagandha, reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a mushroom that boosts mood by lowering stress and feelings of depression due to compounds called Triterpenes. They can help regulate cortisol by calming the nervous system. Reishi can be made into many forms including powder, capsules, and coffee which all keep consumers wanting more. It's no wonder that it is called the "Queen of Mushrooms."

3. Lion's Mane

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is another mushroom native to Asia that has the ability to reduce anxiety, inflammation, and stress - which translates into better mood. Whether it's powders that can be stirred into drinks or a matcha tea blend, the fungi is surging in demand on store shelves. With a predicted market worth of $350 billion by the 2030s and a CAGR of +7.2%, there is no reason not to consider this powerful adaptogen to be added to your products.

4. Holy Basil

Last but not least, holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) helps with fatigue and stress. It is used in Thai cuisine such as in stir fries in addition to teas, also making for great toppings for dishes like pizza. It is both powerful for the mind and delicious - designating it something that consumers are rapidly demanding.

Journey Foods

There are sustainable, cost-effective ways to get these exciting ingredients into your products and added to consumers' diets - and one of them is to use the extensive and curated data provided by Journey Foods. If you are curious about saving money and creating the best product possible with the latest and greatest ingredients and data, Journey Foods is the best B2B database that is suited to help you build the perfect food or drink. Our AI-driven insights track consumer trends in real-time and give you the tools you need to create your next innovation.