lifelike Share 34 +1 Pin 6 Stumble Reddit Shares 40 Rhodiola rosea is a perennial plant in the Crassulaceae family that grows in cold, mountainous regions and/or on cliffs. Rhodiola is most commonly extracted from regions such as the Arctic, Central Asia, as well as the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathian mountains. The flower produced by rhodiola rosea is visible as a yellowish or yellow-green color, and may contain subtle amounts of red within its tips. As a supplement, rhodiola rosea is classified as an adaptogen, meaning its ingestion shifts neurophysiology towards homeostasis. Many people that have taken mind-altering psychiatric drugs and illicit substances find that their neurophysiology becomes significantly disrupted as a result of long-term consistent ingestion of these exogenous chemicals. In other words, their neurophysiology has shifted significantly away from pre-drug homeostasis. Supplementation of rhodiola rosea holds potential to restore normative neurophysiology as a result of its well-documented adaptogenic effect. Furthermore, it is believed that supplementation of rhodiola may alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, and various forms of depression. Many consider rhodiola to be a jack of all trades supplement in that it can simultaneously improve multiple neurological abnormalities. Rhodiola Rosea: Mechanism of Action (How It Works) Rhodiola rosea s exact mechanism of action is complex and remains unclear. It is capable of slowing enzymatic breakdown of various neurotransmitters (e.g. serotonin). Various phytochemical compounds within rhodiola (rosavins, rosiridin, salidroside) act by inhibiting monoamine oxidase an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters. In other words, rhodiola rosea could be classified as an herbal MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor). The specific compound within rhodiola rosea that is elicits the greatest monoamine inhibitory effect is rosiridin. Rosiridin is noted as specifically inhibiting MAO-B to a significant extent (over 80%). In addition to MAO-B inhibition, the herb has been documented as inhibiting MAO-A. Upon inhibition of monoamine oxidase, the brain is able to receive greater concentrations of essential neurotransmitters. The increase in concentrations of various neurotransmitters leads to improved neural communication. In addition to increasing levels of neurotransmitters, rhodiola is thought to improve efficiency and speed of monoamine transportation. In other words, rhodiola assists the brain in moving around neurochemical messengers. In addition to the enhancement of neurotransmission, rhodiola rosea is noted to modulate catecholamine release and cAMP levels in the myocardium during exposure to stressors. Furthermore, it is known to interact with the HPA system facilitating the reduction of cortisol. Other proposed mechanisms include interactions with protein kinases p-JNK, nitric oxide, defense mechanism proteins (e.g. heat shock proteins), and regulation of beta-endorphins and opioid peptides. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19168123 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7756969 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20378318 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25172797 Rhodiola Rosea Benefits (Scientific Research) Highlighted below are many of the [hypothetical] benefits associated with the herb rhodiola rosea. Understand that while there is scientific evidence in support of many of these benefits, there may be limitations associated with the research. That said, many anecdotal reports document noticeable attained benefits from rhodiola supplementation. Anticancer effect : Many reports document potential anticancer effects of Rhodiola rosea. Research in 2004 noted that certain preparations of Rhodiola was capable of inhibiting the growth of cancerous tumors. Evidence in 2008 documented Rhodiola as an herb capable of stimulating the immune system. This research suggested that Rhodiola has potent anticancer effects that could be utilized for the treatment of leukemia. Following up research highlighting anticancer effects in 2008, another study published in 2011 documented the potential of salidroside (a bioactive compound within Rhodiola) to inhibit growth of bladder cancer. Researchers concluded that salidroside may be useful to treat and prevent bladder cancer. Another 2015 publication investigated the effect of salidroside for the treatment of colon cancer. They analyzed its effect on SW1116 cells (colon cancer cells) by administering high doses of salidroside (10/20/50 μg/ml). They noted that it suppressed additional growth of these cells, but the specific mechanisms of action warrant additional research. It should be noted that much of the research conducted has been in rodents rather than humans. Many speculate similar anticancer effects could be attained by humans with regular supplementation. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21520297 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18241696 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15252224 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25755753 Antidepressant effect : Rhodiola rosea has long been regarded as an effective herbal antidepressant. In fact, some reports suggest that Rhodiola rosea may be a favorable treatment over pharmaceutical antidepressants for cases of mild to moderate depression due to its favorable side effect profile. 2015 : A group of researchers conducted a proof of concept trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of Rhodiola rosea for the treatment of mild to moderate depression. In this study, they compared Rhodiola rosea to the popular pharmaceutical antidepressant Zoloft (Sertraline). Authors hypothesized that Rhodiola could produce similar therapeutic benefit to Zoloft with less side effects. The design of the study was a randomized and placebo-controlled, and was part of a Phase II clinical trial. A total of 57 individuals participated in the clinical trial over the course of 12 weeks. These individuals received either: Rhodiola rosea extract, Zoloft (Sertraline), or a placebo. Baseline measures were taken using the Hamilton Depression Rating (HAM-D), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Clinical Global Impression Change (CGI/C). Results suggested that none of the treatment groups experienced significant reductions in depression scores. HAM-D score reductions were greatest among those receiving Zoloft (-8.2), followed by Rhodiola rosea (-5.1), and then the placebo (-4.6). Authors noted that Rhodiola rosea may produce less reduction in depressive symptoms compared to Zoloft, but also had significantly less side effects making it well-tolerated. (Read: Rhodiola Rosea side effects ). They noted that Rhodiola rosea may have a superior risk-benefit profile for those with mild or moderate depressive symptoms. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25837277 2007 : A study was published in 2007 documenting the efficacy and safety of Rhodiola rosea rhizomes (SHR-5) for the treatment of mild to moderate depression. This study was part of a Phase III clinical trial and was conducted in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled format. A total of 99 participants that were diagnosed with depression were divided into 3 groups: Group A taking 340 mg/day (2 tablets of SHR-5), Group B taking 680 mg/day (2 tablets twice per day of SHR-5), and Group C taking 2 placebo tablets daily. Prior to the trial, assessments were conducted to record baseline scores of depression using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Hamilton-Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D). After 42 days, these same measures were collected and compared to the baseline. It was noted that individuals in Group A and Group B experienced significant improvements in depressive symptoms, insomnia, emotional instability, and somtatization. Those receiving the placebo in Group C did not report any significant symptomatic improvement. Researchers concluded that the extract SHR-5 is capable of producing a potent antidepressant effect when administered at doses of 340 mg/day or 680 mg/day for 6 consecutive weeks. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17990195 2008 : A study discovered the effect of Rhodiola supplementation on dietary intake of sucrose and water in depressive rats. Researchers wanted to specifically understand how Rhodiola rosea influenced body weight among rats with depression caused by stress. For this study, rats endured chronic stress for a month to become depressed. Following the stress-induced depression, the rats were given Rhodiola for 3 weeks. Measures of body weight, sucrose intake, and water consumption were recorded weekly. Among the rats who didn t receive Rhodiola supplementation, decreased intake of sucrose and body weight was noted. Those receiving the Rhodiola experienced increases in body weight and sucrose intake to match the control group. Results suggest possibly adaptogenic mechanisms of Rhodiola supplementation, perhaps reversing stress-induced depression. In addition, the results suggest that Rhodiola rosea may help appetite changes (particularly reduction) associated with depression. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18782541 2007 : In a report assessing the adaptogenic effects of Rhodiola rosea, authors noted that extracts with 3% rosavin and 1% salidroside stimulate an antidepressant effect in mice. This antidepressant effect occurs when doses of Rhodiola rosea extract are administered at 10 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, and 20 mg/kg. The antidepressant effect does not appear to be associated with the dose all dosing options facilitate a reduction in depressive symptoms. Even more exciting is the fact that Rhodiola rosea extracts demonstrate antidepressant effects after the first administration. In other words, mice can derive benefit from Rhodiola rosea extract after taking just one dose. Many speculate similar antidepressant effects can be derived by humans. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17072830 Anxiety treatment : Many people find Rhodiola extremely effective for simultaneously reducing anxiety and boosting mood. This is due to the fact that it slows the enzymatic breakdown of various neurotransmitters, leading to increased levels of serotonin and reducing levels of cortisol (a stress hormone). 2007 : In 2007, researchers investigated the effects of oral Rhodiola rosea supplementation (with 3% rosavins and 1% salidroside) in mice. Researchers collected a variety of information regarding the herb s antidepressant, adaptogenic, anxiolytic, nociceptive, and locomotor effects. The dosages administered to mice included: 10 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, and 20 mg/kg. Results from this study suggested that Rhodiola rosea significantly reduced anxiety, producing anxiolytic effects in mice. This effect didn t have any association with dosage higher doses didn t produce any additional anxiolytic effect. Perhaps most impressive was the fact that the anxiolytic effect was attained with simultaneous increased stimulation. Most anxiolytic agents tend to decrease activity in the CNS and make us feel drowsy; reducing our arousal. In some people, Rhodiola may reduce anxiety without reducing energy levels or causing brain fog a phenomenon often associated with antidepressant and/or benzodiazepine usage. 2008 : In 2008, researchers sought to determine whether Rhodiola rosea could significantly reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). They noted that while the herb has been noted to produce anxiolytic effects, it was unknown as to whether it could produce clinical symptomatic relief. The researchers set up a small-scale pilot study with a total of 10 participants all of whom had been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. All participants were middle-aged (between 34 and 55 years old) and were recruited by UCLA Anxiety Disorders Program to participate in the study. All participants received 340 mg of Rhodiola rosea on a daily basis for a term of 10 weeks. Prior to the study, their baseline level of anxiety was measured with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). Secondary measures included the Four-Dimensional Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Clinical Global Impressions of Severity/Improvement Scale. Participants taking Rhodiola at 340 mg daily for 10 weeks had significantly reduced levels of anxiety (compared to baseline) as determined by the HARS. The significant reduction in anxiety reported in this pilot study is similar to reductions documented in clinical trials. Authors suggest further research be conducted to expand upon these preliminary findings. Specifically larger-scale, double-blind, placebo controlled studies would give Rhodiola more credibility as a clinically-effective anxiolytic herb. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17072830 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18307390 Brain fog : There are many people suffering from brain fog , a condition characterized by inability to think clearly and slowed cognitive function. There are many causes of brain fog including: mood disorders, anxiety, neurotransmitter imbalances, abnormal brain waves , etc. Some individuals may find that Rhodiola rosea helps correct various neural abnormalities and significantly decreases brain fog. Rhodiola is known to have a stimulating effect, and can simultaneously reduce anxiety while increasing stimulation. This may be due to the fact that it acts as an MAOI, allowing for increases in dopamine and serotonin. It also is thought to alter hormone levels associated with stress such as cortisol. The fact that Rhodiola rosea is considered an adaptogen means it functions to restore neurophysiological homeostasis. This means that it corrects imbalances in your brain and physiology that could be contributing to your brain fog. While no scientific studies have been conducted to investigate Rhodiola s potential brain fog reducing effect, many anecdotal claims suggest benefit. Cardioprotective effect : There is increasing evidence that Rhodiola supplementation may protect your heart or be cardioprotective. A study conducted in 1994 analyzed the effect of Rhodiola rosea on stress-induced cardiac damage. Researchers determined the degree of stress-induced cardiac damage by evaluating accumulation of 99mTc-pyrophosphate in the heart. Administration of Rhodiola rosea was noted to elicit cardioprotective effects by inhibiting stress-induced cardiac damage. The mechanism behind the cardioprotective properties may have been related to inhibition of catecholamine release and simultaneous inhibition of cAMP increases in the myocardium. In addition, it was noted to lower adrenal-induced catecholamine production during stress. The simultaneous anxiolytic and cardioprotective mechanisms of Rhodiola rosea result in less accumulation of 99mTc-pyrophosphate suggesting less damage and greater protection. A publication in 2004 suggested that the bioactive compounds (salidroside, rosin, rosavin, rosarin, tyrosol) may all inhibit stress-induced heart damage and arrythmias. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7756969 Source: Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15252224 Cognitive function : There is some evidence suggesting that Rhodiola rosea supplementation may improve cognitive function, especially among individuals with deficits. A study published in 2007 evaluated the safety and efficacy of Rhodiola rosea in treating physical and cognitive deficits. A total of 120 adults participated in the study (50 to 89 years old) and all were noted to have physical and cognitive dysfunction. The 120 participants were divided into 2 groups: one group of 60 participants received 2 capsules of Rhodiola rosea after breakfast, while the other group (of 60 participants) took 1 capsule after breakfast and 1 following lunch. Cognitive and physical function was recorded at baseline (prior to treatment), again after 6 weeks, and following 12 weeks. Results indicated that significant rates of improvement in both physical and cognitive function were reported in all 120 participants. Furthermore, following 12 weeks of supplementation, the average time to complete a cognitive digit test significantly decreased. The group taking 2 capsules of Rhodiola rosea after breakfast experienced greater benefit than the alternate dosing regimen. The treatment was considered effective for over 80% of patients as documented by self-reports and physicians and was regarded as safe. While future research is necessary to expand upon these findings, it is clear that Rhodiola rosea is capable of improving cognitive and physical functionality. In addition, the herbal extract may serve as a nootropic or cognitive enhancer among those without any notable cognitive deficits. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17901042 Drug withdrawal : Many people undergoing withdrawal from psychiatric drugs end up with significant imbalances in neurotransmission, hormone levels, and as a result, have a difficult time resetting their homeostatic neurophysiological functioning. Many people experience antidepressant-induced chemical imbalances when they discontinue treatment. These imbalances may lead to post-acute withdrawal syndrome or a discontinuation lasting significantly longer than expected. Among the 10 best supplements for antidepressant withdrawal , or withdrawal from any substance is Rhodiola rosea. While this supplement cannot be taken with a pharmaceutical antidepressant, it can be taken after you ve fully discontinued. As a result of the adaptogenic properties of Rhodiola, it may help correct neurotransmitter abnormalities, reduce stress, and restore homeostatic functioning among those undergoing withdrawal. It is likely to mitigate many withdrawal symptoms and expedite the recovery process. Rhodiola is thought to help reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and fatigue that often occur during withdrawal. 2012 : A study published in 2012 suggested that Rhodiola rosea extract is capable of reducing nicotine withdrawal symptoms . Upon cessation of nicotine, many people experience depression, decreased libido, and decreased serotonin levels. Research suggests that Rhodiola rosea improves behavior, serotonin metabolism and receptor expression, and increases serotonin among those undergoing nicotine withdrawal. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22921986 2010 : There is also evidence that Rhodiola rosea could improve symptoms of hormone withdrawal. Many individuals require exogenous supplementation of hormones for various health conditions (e.g. hypothyroidism). There is some evidence suggesting that Rhodiola rosea supplementation may mitigate symptoms associated with discontinuation of exogenous hormone administration. Individuals undergoing testosterone withdrawal theoretically may be able to offset some of the symptoms with Rhodiola. In this 2010 study, researchers noted that Rhodiola rosea stimulates the nervous system, reduces depression, improves work performance, and reduces fatigue associated with hormone deficiencies. Among those discontinuing exogenous hormone administration, Rhodiola may combat discontinuation symptoms until the body is capable of sufficiently producing adequate levels of endogenous hormones. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20946017 Energy increase : Many studies have noted that those taking Rhodiola rosea extract experience significant increases in both physical and cognitive energy. Those taking Rhodiola tend to experience reduced elevations in stress hormones like cortisol which are known to reduce energy. In addition, Rhodiola is capable of increasing various neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine both of which improve neural efficiency. There is more evidence for energy increases among those who want to increase physical endurance and sports performance. Not everyone will experience reductions in mental fatigue, but most studies suggest modest to moderate benefit. Those with drug withdrawal induced fatigue or even symptoms of chronic fatigue could notice significant energy increases from Rhodiola. Exercise performance : In a study published in 2013, the effect of rhodiola rosea on exercise performance was documented. Researchers wanted to understand how oral administration of rhodiola rosea at 3 mg would affect exercise endurance and performance. They also sought to determine whether participants experienced significant changes in perceived exertion, mood, and cognition. This was a small-scale study, with a total of 18 participants assigned to receive either rhodiola rosea (3 mg) or a placebo (carbohydrates) approximately 1 hour prior to exercise testing. The study was considered double-blind and randomized. The test to evaluate exercise performance included a warm-up (10 minutes) and a 6-mile time trial with a stationary bike (ergometer). Researchers documented rates of perceived exertion (RPEs) in 5 minute intervals during the time trial with a 10-point Borg scale. They noted concentrations of: blood lactate, salivary cortisol, and salivary alpha amylase. Other measures included: Profile of Mood States questionnaire and a Stroop Color Test. All tests were completed prior to the warm-up and after the time trial. Results indicated that supplementation of 3 mg rhodiola rosea significantly decreased heart rate during the warm-up compared to the placebo. In addition, participants that had received the rhodiola rosea completed time trials significantly faster than those receiving the placebo and rates of perceived exertion (RPEs) were documented as being lower. Authors concluded that rhodiola significantly improves exercise performance by reducing rate of perceived exertion and decreasing heart rate during phases of submaximal effort (e.g. warm-ups). Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23443221 Fatigue : Many people note significant increases in energy upon supplementation of Rhodiola rosea extract. The increase in energy is thought to be substantial among individuals suffering from various forms of fatigue. Regardless of whether a person has stress-induced fatigue, chronic fatigue, exercise-related fatigue, or work-related fatigue Rhodiola rosea extract may help. 2015 : Research published in 2015 suggests that fermented Rhodiola rosea extract is capable of reducing fatigue associated with exercise stress. Prior to this research, there was substantial evidence indicating that Rhodiola rosea is likely to protect the physiology from exercise-induced fatigue. This study was the first of its kind in that it analyzed the effect of fermented Rhodiola rosea extract. Authors of the study noted that fermented Rhodiola rosea effectively combated exercise fatigue and stress. This effect was noted to increase swimming time in mice, and altered biomarkers including: hepatic superoxide dismutase and serum lactate dehydrogenase. It was noted that fatigue induced via strenuous physical activity can be offset with fermented Rhodiola rosea supplementation. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25866748 2009 : Many people suffer with stress-induced fatigue. Stress uses up excess energy stores to facilitate the fight-or-flight response and help us escape from danger. Unfortunately, when this response is prolonged, we may experience adrenal fatigue and end up with significant reductions in physical and/or mental energy. Researchers sought to determine whether administration of SHR-5 (an extract from Rhodiola rosea) could serve as an effective treatment for stress-induced fatigue. This study was conducted as part of a Phase III clinical trial with a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. A total of 60 participants were divided into 2 groups: one received 576 mg/day of SHR-5 (four tablets), while the second received placebo tablets (four times per day). Baseline measures were recorded with the SF-36 questionnaire (quality of life), Pines burnout scale (fatigue), Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (depression), Conners Computerized Continuous Performance Test 2 (attention), and saliva cortisol levels. Significant reductions in stress-induced fatigue were noted in both groups, but the SHR-5 provided significantly greater symptomatic relief. Researchers suggest that SHR-5 reduces fatigue significantly, while improves mental performance and decreases cortisol among patients that have experienced burnout with fatigue syndrome. If you ve suffered from a nervous breakdown and happen to feel fatigued, supplementation of SHR-5 or Rhodiola rosea may provide significant benefit. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19016404 2000 : An earlier study published in 2000 analyzed the effect of low-dose SHR-5 (derived from Rhodiola rosea) on fatigue among night-shift physicians. A total of 56 physicians participated in the study and baseline measures were assessed with a Fatigue Index. All mental performance tests indicated mental fatigue associated with slowed cognitive performance. The study was conducted in double-blind, crossover trial format. Five testing protocols indicated significant improvement among those taking SHR-5 supplementation during the first 2 weeks. Results indicated that SHR-5 reduces general fatigue associated with stressful conditions. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11081987 Libido increase : While there is no definitive scientific evidence suggesting that Rhodiola rosea increases libido, many anecdotal reports suggest that supplementation may boost sex drive. There are numerous potential mechanisms by which Rhodiola exhibits a libido enhancing effect including: increasing neurotransmitters, combating stress, reducing fatigue, and restoring homeostasis. When a person s neurophysiology gets knocked out of homeostasis, many people notice reductions in libido. This is due to the fact that their neurochemistry is imbalanced, hormone levels are altered, and energy levels may be low. Since Rhodiola has been noted to correct imbalances and increase energy it makes theoretical sense that libido may also increase. Neuroprotective agent : There are numerous studies highlighting the ability of Rhodiola rosea to function as a neuroprotective agent , protecting brain cells from damage, reducing inflammation, and possibly promoting neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons). Some speculate that Rhodiola could prevent the development of certain neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson s and improve outcomes among individuals that experience lesions. 2013 : It is well known that excessive inflammation may trigger an array of neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers tested the effect of Rhodiola rosea on expression of the iNOS protein and proinflammatory cytokines. They discovered that Rhodiola rosea was able to suppress inflammation in a dose-dependent manner. In other words, the greater the dose administered, the greater the suppression of inflammation. Inflammatory reduction was noted via various biomarkers in the kidney and prefrontal cortex of mice. In addition, the bioactive compound of rosin (within Rhodiola rosea) protected neurons from glutamatergic neurotoxicity. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23690847 2013 : Researchers investigated whether Rhodiola rosea extract may inhibit neurotoxicity in the brains of rats. It was noted that administration of Rhodiola rosea extract significantly reduced measures of oxidative stress and MPTP-induced biochemical alterations. This suggests that Rhodiola could preserve optimal brain functioning in rats, but the mechanism of action warrants further investigation. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25206012 2012 : Another study was able to demonstrate neuroprotective effects from Rhodiola rosea extract. Specifically, the bioactive compound of salidroside protects neurons from apoptosis (cell death) induced by glutamate and hydrogen peroxide. In other words, Rhodiola rosea (specifically the salidroside) can increase survival rates of neurons and protect against both membrane and morphological damage induced by oxidative stressors. Authors note significant neuroprotective effect derived from bioactive compounds of Rhodiola rosea. They specifically suggest that supplement formulations with large amounts of salidroside may provide superior neuroprotection compared to other formulations. In particular, the Rhodiola rosea extract is able to increase antioxidant activity which protects cortical neurons. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22086763 2012 : A study investigated the neuroprotective effect of salidroside (from Rhodiola rosea extract) and an analogue of salidroside called tyrosol galactoside. Researchers assessed the degree by which these compounds protected against focal cerebral ischemic injuries (strokes) in rats. Both compounds were able to provide antioxidative action and prevent ischemic injuries significantly protecting neurons from damage. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22095090 2010 : In 2010, the therapeutic efficacy of Phytomix-40 was investigated for the treatment of Parkinson s disease. Phytomix-40 is a compound consisting of 40 plant extracts, one of which happens to be Rhodiola rosea. The Phytomix-40 compound was noted as: improving immune function, hormonal markers, and exhibiting antioxidant effects among individuals with Parkinson s disease. This suggests that Rhodiola rosea may aid in the symptomatic reduction among those with neurodegenerative diseases. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21165417 2009 : In a rat model of Alzheimer s disease, researchers investigated the effect of Rhodiola rosea extract. They sought to determine whether the herbal supplement would improve cognitive function, reduce oxidative stress, and possibly prevent injury to neurons in the hippocampus of rat brains. The rat brains experienced a controlled lesion and behaviors were monitored. Results suggested that during a maze test, the lesion resulted in significant reductions in spatial learning and memory. In addition, neurons in the hippocampus were severely damaged. However, administration of Rhodiola rosea prior to the lesion resulted in significant protection from cognitive deficits, neuron loss, and oxidative stress. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19950527 Neurotransmitter restoration : If you have a neurochemical imbalance, particularly one involving serotonin (5-HT), Rhodiola rosea extract has potential to correct the condition. A 2009 study investigated the effect of Rhodiola rosea extract on serotonin levels, cell proliferation, and number of neurons within the hippocampal region of rats with depression induced by chronic mild stress. The study incorporated 70 rats, all of which were divided into 10 groups three of which were treated with Rhodiola rosea extract (low, medium, and high doses). Just 3 weeks of treatment with Rhodiola rosea had increased levels of brain cells within the hippocampus. In addition, Rhodiola rosea had increased serotonin levels from a deficiency stemming from several weeks of chronic mild stress. Stress-induced neurotransmitter reduction, particularly serotonin can be replenished with Rhodiola rosea supplementation. Other research has suggested that the adaptogenic effect of Rhodiola rosea can alter various monoamines (neurotransmitters) and opioid peptides (e.g. beta-endorphins). The changes in neurotransmission as a result of Rhodiola are thought to be beneficial for mood and cognitive function. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19403286 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11410073 Sports performance : There is some evidence to suggest that Rhodiola rosea may help athletes by improving performance. The hypothesized mechanisms responsible for promoting improved athletic performance include: increasing utilization of fatty acids, enhancing antioxidant activity, and improving resistance to physically strenuous exercise. A study published in 2010 analyzed the effect of Rhodiola rosea on competitive athletes during an endurance exercise. Researchers administered Rhodiola rosea for a 4 week term to 14 athletes; all were male. Baseline measures were taken at baseline and included: cardio-pulmonary exhaustion tests and extraction of blood samples (for antioxidant evaluation). The collected data was compared to the same 14 athletes after ingestion of a placebo. The results noted that Rhodiola rosea supplementation reduced: plasma free fatty acids, blood lactate, and plasma creatine kinase. This suggests that supplementation with Rhodiola may help reduce skeletal muscle dam really extraordinary
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