The Energizing but Calming effects of Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)
The High Altitude Herb
The tougher the environment, the stronger Rhodiola’s medicine.
To endure harsh conditions of The Himalayas and The Alps, Rhodiola develops powerful protective compounds which help boost energy, reduce fatigue, and improve the body’s use of oxygen.
Ancient Chinese emperors thought Rhodiola was so valuable, they traded their wine, honey, and garlic for it.
Scientists have published over 180 studies on Rhodiola. It has been used for thousands of years, but only recently became popular in the West.
Ways Rhodiola Benefits Your Health
Stress reduction/hormone regulation
Rhodiola is an adaptogen herb. That means it is proven very safe and helps your body adapt to stress whether it is physical or emotional. It works by balancing your body’s stress hormone, cortisol.
Plus, it improves reproductive hormone regulation. It may help restore regular periods and balance hormones (like estrogen and progesterone). It boosts fertility in both men and women helping with sperm health and ovulation.
Helps with Depression
Rhodiola can also lift your mood. It helps keep important brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in balance. What makes it unique is that it tends to energize, rather than sedate, so you feel more motivated and upbeat without feeling sluggish.
Improves Cognition
Rhodiola improves memory and alertness. Research shows Rhodiola boosts concentration and mental stamina when you are feeling overwhelmed or tired.
People often report quicker thinking, enhanced creativity, and even better decision-making after taking Rhodiola. Its effects on neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin may also protect against age-related cognitive decline.
Boosts Energy
High Altitude Skiing/Chronic Fatigue
When I have skied in Colorado, hitting the slopes right after arriving often left me with a severe migraine, shortness of breath, and no energy, sometimes even landing me in the ER. Once, I ended up resting my head on a table at 11,000 feet, which nearly got me a sled ride down from ski patrol.
Since then, I have a protocol using Rhodiola along with taking it easy the first day to be able to adjust to the altitude without getting sick. Rhodiola helps my body handle less oxygen and the physical stress of altitude, so I have better stamina.
This herb fights fatigue and improves blood flow. Studies show it can help with chronic fatigue and even support people who work night shifts.
Supports a Healthy Heart
Your heart likes Rhodiola, too. It may help prevent irregular heartbeats, strengthen your heart muscle, and protect against stress-related heart issues. Research suggests that Rhodiola can support healthy blood pressure levels and improve circulation.
Supports a Healthy Immune System
Rhodiola is an immune booster and can help your body bounce back from things like overwork, intense training, chemo, or radiation. It even has anti-viral properties.
This makes it especially valuable during cold and flu season, as it may support your body’s natural defenses when you are at risk of infection or feeling run down.
How does it taste?
It is a mix of sweet, a little bitter, spicy, and cool.
How to take Rhodiola:
The root of the plant is used for medicine. The plant is grown for 3-5 years before the roots are taken.
Capsules: Take 2 to 4 a day.
Tincture: 2-3 ml (that is about 40-60 drops) up to three times daily.
Tea: Use 2 teaspoons of dried Rhodiola, steeped in boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain and enjoy 1-2 cups per day. (Add honey or a drop of essential oil to cut the bitter taste).
Reputable brands are Herbalist and Alchemist, Medi-herb by Standard Process, and Gaia.
A Few Cautions:
If you have bipolar or manic disorders, talk to a doctor before using Rhodiola.
Sensitive people might get insomnia if taken later in day.
Rhodiola is a drying herb, so it isn’t the best choice for people dealing with dry cough, constipation, or other dry conditions.
References:
Stansbury, Jill Dr., (2020), Herbal Formularies for Health Professionals Volume 4, Neurology, Psychiatry, and Pain Management, Including Cognitive and Neurologic Conditions and Emotional Conditions.
Winston, David RH(AHG), (2019), Adaptogens, Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief.
Bone, Kerry. Mills, Simon. (2017), Principles and Practices of Phytotherapy, Modern Herbal Medicine.
Lekontseva, Y., Zhukova, I., and Wacker, A. (2017). Rhodiola rosea in subjects with Prolonged or Chronic Fatigye Symptoms. Results of an Open-Label Clinical Trial. Complementary Medicine Research, 24(1) 46-52.
