What Is Rhodiola?

August 31, 2008 – 4:03 pm

Welcome back!

Rhodiola rosea, also known Crenulin, Arctic root, or Golden root, has been used for centuries in Asia, Eastern Europe, and Scandinavia. The root of the plant was used in traditional folk medicine as a remedy to improve endurance and productivity, prolong life span, lessen high altitude sickness, improve gastrointestinal ailments, lessen fatigue and depression, and support the nervous system.

Recent research on Rhodiola has documented several important health benefits for the human body. These possible benefits include enhanced use of oxygen, strengthening of the heart due to improved oxygen use, enhanced absorption of nutrients, reduction of stress, and positive antioxidant effects. Rhodiola is commonly referred to as an adaptogen due to its ability to help the human body adapt to physical and mental stress and still maintain general vitality. In Russia and China, it has been used to improve physical strength and mental clarity by athletes, astronauts, and others in oxygen-critical environments.

Rhodiola seems to support and stimulate the body’s immune system in two areas. First, by stimulating the creation of Natural Killer Cells which destroy infected cells and by helping increase the body’s resistance to toxins. Second, by helping the body cope with stress. Researchers believe that stress weakens the immune system and lowers the body’s ability to fight attacks from bad bacteria or viruses. And, over time this can result in a decline in one’s health and vitality.

One final thought on Chinese herbs; they work slowly to help the body achieve balance and address the issue(s) most critical to it. So, be consistent when taking them and have patience as you observe the changes to your health.

Scientific Studies
The results of two human studies show that subjects with symptoms of fatigue, insomnia, irritability, decrease work ability reacted positively to 50 mg of Rhodiola, three times a day.

In a study of biathlon athletes given Rhodiola, the athletes show a significant improvement on shooting accuracy and better coordination. The subjects taking Rhodiola, their recovery time, endurance, strength, and cardiovascular measures were significantly better than those not taking Rhodiola.

References:
Krasik E, Morozova E, Petrova K, et al. “Therapy of asthenic conditions: clinical perspectives of application of Rhodiola rosea extract.” Proceedings Modern problems in psycho-pharmacology (p. 298-330) :Russia; 1970.

Krasik E, Petrova K, Rogulina G, et al. “New data on the therapy of asthenic conditions (clinical prospects for the use of Rhodiola extract).” Proceedings of All-Russia Conference-Urgent Problems in Psychopharmacology: (p. 215-7). Sverdlovsk Press: Russia; 1970.

Resources:
Brown M.D., Richard P., Gerbarg M.D., Patricia L., Graham, Barbara. “The Rhodiola Revolution: Transform Your Health with Herbal Breakthrough of the 21st Century.” Rodale Books: Pennsylvannia; 2005.