Speaker: Donald Yance. Begins by introducing the idea of stress vs adaptation, and describes the disruptive assault on our neuroendocrine system byf environmental chemicals. The hypothalamus- pituitary- adrenal axis (HPAA) is the mediator of psychological and environmental stress, and influences the thyroid, the pancreas and the pineal gland. Adaptogens are herbs which enable the system to adapt to stress, thereby enhancing the functioning of the neuroendocrine system. Therapeutic effects of Aralia, astragalus, holy basil, ashwagandha, shisandra and rhodiola are discussed.