Overview
Rhodiola Rosea, also called golden root, stimulates and protects the immune system by supporting the adrenal hormones. It strengthens the immune system, increases attention and stress tolerance, improves physical performance, and elevates mood. Additionally, it is used to treat insomnia, poor appetite, irritability, hypertension, migraines, and exhaustion caused by prolonged physical or intellectual exertion.
Key Benefits
- Improves the response of brain cells to stress
- Supports the normal functioning of the hormones and neurotransmitters needed for positive mood
- Supports mental alertness
- Reduces stress by helping to normalize cortisol levels
- Supports recovery from exhaustion
History of Usage
Rhodiola is a primary adaptogen, a phrase coined in 1947 by Russian scientist Nikolai Lazarev to refer to plants that promote a “state of non-specific resistance” to stress. In 2012, the European Medicines Agency classified pharmaceutical goods containing Rhodiola extract as adaptogens.
It has a long track record of being used in Scandinavia, parts of Europe, Asia, North America, and Russia to promote endurance and work performance, longevity, tolerance to altitude sickness, and combat fatigue. It is often consumed infused in alcohol in parts of the world where it’s grown. In Siberian Altai, the roots are put in bottles of vodka, which turn the vodka red, and sold at roadside stands.
Today it is used extensively to combat stress and fatigue and to help recovery from exhaustion. It is also used to combat depression and other mood-related issues. In the 1960s, Rhodiola extract was used in Russian training and performance programs.
Biochemistry
The root of the Rhodiola Rosea plant is used for extracts and the active constituents in the root are phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, monoterpenes, triterpenes, and phenolic acids. Rhodiola contains more than 140 compounds that work to stimulate brain receptors responsible for mood and reducing stress.
Several studies show that repeated administration of Rhodiola Rosea extract SHR-5 improves mental function (especially concentration) and lowers burnout in people with fatigue syndrome. There are encouraging findings in mild-to-moderate depression and widespread anxiety for Rhodiola.
Numerous modes of action associated with the therapeutic benefit of Rhodiola extracts have been found. They include HPA-system (cortisol-reducer) connections, p-JNK kinases of protein, nitric oxide, and protective proteins (e.g., the Hsp 70 and FoxO / DAF-16 heat shock proteins). Due to its lack of interaction with other pharmaceuticals and the lack of adverse effects shown during clinical studies, it may be an excellent candidate for usage as a safe medication.
Recent Trends
Rhodiola’s commercial demands are mostly met by wild crops, and the growing demand has led to the over-harvesting of Rhodiola. Due to a lack of raw materials, the price of Rhodiola Rosea extract products may rise. Many companies have standardized Rhodiola extracts and offer them as a natural adaptogen.
Numerous producers have standardized Rhodiola extracts, and the output results are advertised as a natural adaptogen.
The global Rhodiola market is enjoying a boost by the growth of the plant extract market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.8% between 2021 and 2026 to reach a value of $68.81 billion by 2026.
Precautions
- Pregnant and nursing women should consult their health practitioner before taking Rhodiola.
References
- Brown RP, Gerbarg PL. Rhodiola rosea: A phytomedicinal overview. HerbalGram. 2002;56:40-52.
- Panossian A, Wikman G, Sarris J. Rosenroot (Rhodiola rosea): Traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology and clinical efficacy. Phytomedicine. 2010;17(7):481-493. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2010.02.002.
- Cropley M, Banks AP, Boyle J. The effects of Rhodiola rosea extract on anxiety, stress, cognition and other mood symptoms. Phytother Res. 2015;29(12):1934-1939. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5486.
- Panossian A, Wikman G, Sarris J. Rosenroot (Rhodiola rosea): traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology and clinical efficacy. Phytomedicine. 2010 Jun;17(7):481-93. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2010.02.002. Epub 2010 Apr 7. PMID: 20378318.
