Review: Rhodiola Rosea

 Rhodiola rosea, also known as golden root or rose root, is a flowering plant that grows in cold regions of Europe and Asia. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Russia and Scandinavia, as an adaptogen. (1) Adaptogens are believed to help the body adapt to stress, both physical and mental.

Potential Health Benefits:

Research on Rhodiola rosea is ongoing, and while some studies suggest potential benefits, more high-quality research is needed to confirm these findings. Some of the potential benefits include:

• Reducing fatigue and improving energy levels: Some studies suggest that Rhodiola may help improve energy levels and combat fatigue, possibly also in people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). (2, 3)

• Improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression: Some research indicates that Rhodiola may help improve mood and reduce symptoms of mild to moderate depression. (2)

• Reducing stress and anxiety: Rhodiola may help manage stress and anxiety symptoms, although the evidence is not conclusive. (4)

• Enhancing cognitive function: Some studies suggest Rhodiola may improve memory, focus, and concentration. Salidroside is a phenylpropanoid mainly isolated from Rhodiola species with various pharmacological effects. A total of 20 studies were included, and the results showed that the Salidroside treatment significantly improved behavior abnormalities in Alzheimer's Disease animal models. The authors reported that salidroside treatment could effectively increase superoxide dismutase, decrease malondialdehyde, and decrease interleukin 1β, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α. Salidroside treatment was effective in reducing amyloid-β levels and the number of apoptotic cells, as well. (5) But more research is needed.

• Boosting physical performance: Some evidence suggests Rhodiola may improve exercise performance and reduce muscle fatigue. (4)

Side Effects:

Rhodiola is generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses for short periods. However, based on information over the internet, some potential side effects may include headache, dizziness, stomach upset, dry mouth, sleep disturbance and irritability. 

Important Considerations include limited evidence for the health claims and drug interactions. 

Current Research:

Several ongoing research studies are investigating the potential benefits of Rhodiola for various conditions. These studies are crucial for understanding its true efficacy and potential side effects. It is important to stay updated on the latest research findings before using Rhodiola for any health concern.

Remember:

Always consult your doctor before taking any new supplement, including Rhodiola rosea. They can advise you on the potential benefits and risks based on your individual health and medical history.

REFERENCE

1. Anastasia Agapouda et al, Rhodiola Rosea Extract Counteracts Stress in an Adaptogenic Response Curve Manner via Elimination of ROS and Induction of Neurite Outgrowth, Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2022; 2022: 5647599.

2. Jurga Bernatoniene et al, Phenolic Compounds of Rhodiola rosea L. as the Potential Alternative Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jul 31;24(15):12293.

3. Yevgeniya Lekomtseva et al, Rhodiola rosea in Subjects with Prolonged or Chronic Fatigue Symptoms: Results of an Open-Label Clinical Trial, Complement Med Res. 2017;24(1):46-52.

4. Grant M Tinsley et al, Rhodiola rosea as an adaptogen to enhance exercise performance: a review of the literature, Br J Nutr. 2024 Feb 14;131(3):461-473. 

5. Nan Zhang et al, Neuroprotective Mechanisms of Salidroside in Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Preclinical Studies  J Agric Food Chem. 2023 Nov 22;71(46):17597-17614.