Rhodiola Rosea Root Remedies

Fatigue and Stress

• Rhodiola falls under the class of adaptogenic herbs -- those that strengthen the body against outside stressors to reduce fatigue and stress. MSKCC says research has shown rhodiola blocks the release of chemicals that can trigger stress, such as adrenaline. A study published in a 2003 issue of "Phytomedicine" divided participants into four groups: one taking 9 mg of the active components, one taking 13mg, one taking a placebo and one group taking nothing. The double-blind study found participants taking rhodiola experienced significantly less fatigue compared to the groups not using the supplement. Herbalist Kerry Bone, who reviewed the study, says that while no significant differences existed between the two groups using the supplement, those using less of the extract appeared to report better results.

Depression and Anxiety

• According to MSKCC, rhodiola demonstrated "strong" antidepressant activity and might also serve as a useful treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. It appears to reduce the production of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that can affect the production of chemicals that influence mood. Bone says research has shown many test subjects who have used rhodiola report an overall improvement in well-being but notes it could worsen symptoms of depression accompanied by phobias or hysteria.

Physical and Mental Performance

• A study published in the June 2004 "International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism" reported on a double blind study looking at the effects of rhodiola on physical endurance, muscle strength, reaction time and speed of limb movement in young, healthy subjects. When taken acutely -- one hour before exercise -- it positively impacted these factors to a greater degree than the placebo. The second part of the study involved taking rhodiola daily for four weeks before undergoing testing, and researchers found this did not exert the same benefit.

  Bone notes research that has shown rhodiola improved mental performance, concentration and memory; he points to one Russian study that found students taking rhodiola during exam periods got better scores compared to students not using it.

Considerations for Use

• Look for tablets that contain 2 percent rosavins and 3 percent salidroside -- the components believed to exert the therapeutic effects of rhodiola. Bone recommends taking 150 to 600 mg in tablet form. For liquid extracts, look for supplements with at least 3 mg of rosavins and 1 mg of salidroside and take about 3 to 6 ml daily. The MSKCC says no reports of adverse effects exist, but possible side effects include irritability and insomnia. Using an adaptogenic herb along with other stimulants, like caffeine, can add to its stimulating effects.