Benefits of rhodiola rosea: does it help?

So, you want to take a supplement. For whatever reason, you feel overly anxious, tired or depleted. You certainly don’t want drugs, if they aren’t necessary. Reports indicate supplements may help reduce the effects of fatigue and even forgetfulness in some circumstances; not all supplements are created equal, however. According to the American Chiropractic Association, rhodiola rosea is a plant with adaptogenic properties. It is listed among the top five “promising supplements for athletes.” Consider how rhodiola rosea may help you.

“Whosy what’s it?”

Rhodiola rosea is a plant that may affect certain changes in the body; physiological changes to anxiety, stress and depression, in particular. Prior to stress changes, for example, your body runs at a normal or stable rate, i.e., your heart rate beats a certain amount of times per day, your metabolism works at a certain rate; your internal environment is regulated by various factors. This essentially describes dynamic equilibrium and homeostasis at work. When the body experiences stress, the central nervous system “overruns” these processes by releasing catecholamines into the bloodstream. It may cause added adrenaline release generating homeostatic imbalance; the imbalance subsequently ignites the body’s defensive mechanisms. Evidence suggests rhodiola rosea dampens the detrimental effects of catecholamines and stabilizes the body’s processes back to what they once were before stress occurred.

Active ingredient

Salidroside and rosavin are two active ingredients in rhodiola rosea. Reports indicate these two compounds may serve as natural antidepressants, but that isn’t all. According to the American Cancer Society, both salidroside and rosavin are classified among phytochemicals and are “promoted for the prevention and treatment of many health conditions including cancer.” Researchers are currently studying the beneficial effects of phytochemicals. There are several different groups, however. Polyphenols are among the most favorable phytochemicals.

Side effects

Reports say rhodiola rosea has minimal side effects, but evidence indicates those with mental or “manic disorders” should not take it in any form. You should use care even if you do not have preexisting conditions; research any derivative extracts or supplements you plan to introduce. A tablet, for example, is more potent than a liquid extract. People who are introducing supplements into their diet should maintain a consistent dosage for at least four weeks before changing their intake.