Plant extracts such as polyphenols and so-called adaptogens are gaining increasing attention – both for their potential health benefits and their underlying mechanisms of action. Here, we look at how they work in the body – scientifically sound and easy to understand.
Polyphenols – Natural All-Rounders in the Body
Polyphenols are a large group of plant compounds (over 8,000 types, including flavonoids, stilbenes, and phenolic acids) that can perform a variety of biological functions.
How it works in the body
- Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatories: They neutralize free radicals and suppress inflammatory processes – which is helpful in cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and metabolic disorders.
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health: They improve vascular function, lower inflammatory markers, and can have a positive effect on blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Intestinal flora & cognition: Polyphenols interact with the intestinal flora, increasing their availability and can positively influence brain function.
- Example: Green tea extract (EGCG): Can increase fat burning, improve insulin sensitivity, and energy balance during exercise.
Important: Many of these effects come from epidemiological studies or preclinical models. Excessive supplementation can pose risks – e.g., iron deficiency, reduced nutrient absorption, and potentially toxic effects at high doses.
Adaptogens – herbal companions under stress
Adaptogens are plant extracts that, according to the classic definition, are said to have the ability to increase general resistance to stress and stabilize physical homeostasis. Traditionally, they come from Ayurveda or TCM – examples include Ashwagandha, Eleutherococcus (Siberian ginseng), and Schisandra.
How it works in the body
- Stress resistance & cellular regulation: Experimental studies show that adaptogens can improve stress resistance, mental performance, and mood, among other things. by regulating neuroendocrine and immunological axes.
- Anti-inflammatory & neuroprotective effects: Adaptogens can modulate inflammatory signaling pathways such as NF-κB and thus attenuate neuroinflammatory processes.
- Antioxidant activity: Extracts of Rhodiola, Eleutherococcus, and Amla (Emblica officinalis) showed high antioxidant effects, proportional to the polyphenol content.
Note: The term "adaptogen" is scientifically controversial and not officially recognized in the EU/USA.
Case Studies – Plant Extracts in Action
Fat Burning During Exercise – Green Tea Extract
- Studies show that EGCG can increase fat burning during moderate exercise by around 25% and improve insulin sensitivity. The result: better energy utilization and increased performance during training.
Skin & Nutrition – Concentration with Ginkgo Biloba Extract
- According to a meta-analysis (Yang et al., 2016, Curr Top Med Chem), 120–240 mg of Ginkgo Biloba extract per day can improve mental performance in mild cognitive impairment.
- Practical Application: Improvement of brain microcirculation, antioxidant protection, neuroprotection.
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Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be accepted by conventional medicine.
The information contained in this article regarding legal regulations, approvals, and possible uses of raw materials is based on careful research and our current state of knowledge (as of July 2025). However, we assume no liability for the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information.
The legal framework for food and food supplements is subject to constant change. Therefore, the manufacturer or distributor is always responsible for checking the applicable regulations, EU regulations, and approval lists for the use of raw materials and health-related claims.
In case of legal uncertainty, we recommend consulting legal experts or the relevant authorities.