Our body releases the hormone cortisol when we experience stress, especially in a long-term basis, which can be potentially dangerous. High amount of cortisol does not only affect the endocrine and immune systems, but it also affects the brain, sex drive and skin elasticity. Research has found that adaptogens work through two master control systems in the body, the HPA (hypothalamic / pituitary / adrenal axis), that controls endocrine function, as well as nervous system and immune function. The other system is sympatho-adrenal system, which is our fight or flight response. Adaptogens also work on a cellular level to prevent cortisol-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial are the powerhouse of our cells and when they are malfunction, this can contribute to conditions such as such as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Different adaptogens have their own unique properties, some are stimulating, some calming, some warming or cooling and some drying.