Have you been depressed lately? Do you lack energy and stamina? If you answered “Yes” to any of the two above questions, then you should consider taking rhodiola supplements.
Also known as western roseroot or golden root, rhodiola is a flowering plant that has strong antidepressant effects and can help increase energy, strength, and endurance. Studies have found that rhodiola promotes cardiovascular health, improves memory, and boosts the immune system. It’s also one of the best natural remedies for depression.
Helps Improve Symptoms of Depression
One study compared the effects of rhodiola extract with the commonly prescribed antidepressant sertraline (Zoloft). While both reduced symptoms of depression, rhodiola produced fewer side effects and was better tolerated. Rhodiola may help balance neurotransmitters in your brain that influence mood and emotion.
Helps Fight Fatigue
Due to its adaptogenic properties, rhodiola is thought to help alleviate fatigue. In one study, people with chronic fatigue symptoms who took rhodiola for 8 weeks experienced significant improvements in stress, fatigue, quality of life, mood, and concentration.
May Improve Brain Function
Some studies suggest rhodiola may improve learning and memory function. An animal study found that just a single dose of rhodiola increased memory and had an antidepressant effect in mice. Researchers noted this herb could become a valuable tool to increase cognition and counteract mood disorders.
May Improve Exercise Performance
Research on rhodiola for exercise performance has shown mixed results. Some studies found it decreased perceived exertion and improved endurance, while others found no significant effects. More research is needed to confirm potential exercise benefits.
May Help Manage Diabetes
Animal studies suggest rhodiola may help improve diabetes management and protect against kidney damage related to diabetes. The salidroside compound in rhodiola was responsible for these effects. Human studies are needed.
Has Anticancer Properties
Test-tube and animal studies have shown that salidroside, a potent component of rhodiola, may inhibit the growth of lung, bladder, gastric, and colon cancer cells. Researchers suggest rhodiola may be useful in treating many types of cancer, but human studies have yet to confirm this.
Generally Safe With a Low Risk of Side Effects
Rhodiola has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Current research finds it to be safe and well-tolerated, with a low risk of side effects when taken in the recommended dosages of 200-600 mg per day for up to 10 weeks. However, its long-term safety is unknown.
What Is Rhodiola?
Rhodiola rosea grows in dry, cold environments in Alaska, Asia, and Europe. This plant has been used for over 3,000 years as a natural cure for anxiety, fatigue, and poor immunity. Modern studies indicate that Rhodiola extract is beneficial for mild to moderate depression.
This herb contains five active biological compounds – tyrosol, salidroside, rosin, rosarin, and rhodioloside, which delay aging and protect your cells from free radical damage. The antioxidants found in rhadiola fight cancer and inhibit tumor growth. This plant is also used as a natural tonic and remedy for certain mental health conditions. The recommended dose is 200 to 600 milligrams a day.
Benefits and Uses of Rhodiola
Rhodiola has been shown to improve concentration, regulate heartbeat, and lower cholesterol levels. It also boasts adaptogenic properties, so it helps your body resist physical, chemical, and environmental stress. Athletes use rhodiola to gain strength and endurance, speed up recovery, and have more energy. Another interesting aspect is that rhodiola doesn’t seem to have any side effects. Even though its safety on long term is not known, it can be successfully used for six to 10 weeks.
Research suggests that rhodiola may enhance athletic performance, improve sleep quality, and reduce fatigue and stressful situations. Rosavin, one of its key ingredients, promotes weight loss by increasing your body’s ability to break down fat. Due to its antidepressant effects, it lowers cortisol levels, which leads to fat loss, stronger immunity, and better mood.
Photo Credit: “Rhodiola rosea (Digital painting)” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by talaakso
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