Rhodiola or Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogen widely used to treat depression, alleviate stress and fatigue, anti-aging supplement, and treatment for certain cardiovascular diseases. Before its present use, Rhodiola was known as the “golden root” and has long been used in Russia and Asia to boost endurance. In the western countries, a known adaptogen is the Siberian ginseng which produces the same beneficial effects as the rhodiola rosea extract. According to historical records, Vikings used rhodiola during their long campaign periods to survive stress and fatigue, natives of Central Asia used rhodiola rosea extract as a natural cold and flu remedy, and Mongols utilized it as treatment for tuberculosis and cancer.
Russian and Scandinavian scientists conducted most of the research on the rhodiola effects on the body. According to studies, rhodiola acts directly on the brain by raising the neurotransmitter serotonin, a brain chemical that acts as mood stabilizer. Once there is an increased level of serotonin, mood is greatly enhanced and with corresponding improvement in vitality and endurance. Compared to Siberian ginseng, it acts on the adrenal gland to release adrenaline for heightened vitality, whose effect is short term.
The active ingredients in the rhodiola herb responsible for its anti-stress action are tyrosol, rosarin, salidrosides, and most importantly, rosavin. Rhodiola supplements are said to contain 2% of rosavin, its most important component. Other beneficial elements of Rhodiola are flavonoids, phenylethanol derivatives, phenolic acids, flavonoids, monoterpenes, and triterpenes.
Rhodiola Benefits
- Rhodiola helps the body to be more resistant against stress caused by chemical, physical, biological, and emotional factors.
- Rhodiola is a potent weight loss agent as it activates stored adipose lipases which effectively burn fat.
- Rhodiola enhances the immune system. It prevents the weakening of the body’s natural defense caused by too much stress.
- For those who exercise regularly, it helps speed up the muscles recovery period from strain during strenuous activities and work outs.
- According to some studies, Rhodiola has the ability to increase the bioelectrical activity of the brain resulting to improved memory and increased brain energy.
- Cardiac problems caused by stress can be relieved with regular rhodiola supplement intake.
Rhodiola Side Effects
Generally, Rhodiola rosea side effects are rare and very few. Intake of excessive rhodiola dosage can cause increased blood pressure. After surgery, intake of rhodiola supplement is not advised as it is said to have blood-thinning properties. Those taking anti-coagulants like aspirin and warfarin medications are also not advised to take rhodiola rosea extract. Apart from these conditions, Rhodiola is generally safe for use.
