What Is Rhodiola Root?

Rhodiola root, also named golden root or rose root, is botanically named rhodiola rosea. The fragrant root species of rhodiola root is the one that is used as medicine. It is grown in the mountainous Arctic region in Europe and Asia, and has been used in medicine predominately in Eastern Europe and Asia.

Uses of Rhodiola Root

• Rhodiola root has been used for years for various reasons. Studies indicate that it increases physical strength and endurance. It has been used to treat fatigue and infections. Rhodiola root has also been used to increase fertility in women and sexual dysfunction in men. In Asia it been used in the treatment of colds or the flu. There are numerous studies showing that rhodiola has both a stimulating and sedating effect on the central nervous system. Rhodiola improves the thyroid and adrenal function, and protects the heart and liver with its antioxidant properties. Lastly, it has also been used to stimulate memory. Prolonged bouts of stress can interfere with memory, and rhodiola helps to enhance the thought process and memory.

History of the Rhodiola Root

• The use of rhodiola root goes back as far as the Vikings who used it for physical strength. It has been included as an official medicine since 1969 in Russia. Rhodiola dates as far back to the Greek physician Pedanius Dioscorides of the first century, who reported on its use in his book "De Materia Medica" (Book of Medicine). Testing has mainly been done on animals and through test tube. Many of its properties are not known since most studies are written in Slavic languages.

Dosage of the Rhodiola Root

• When using rhodiola root, it seems to have a more stimulating effect when used in lower dosages. When used in higher dosages it has more of a sedating effect. When you take rhodiola it has to be the extract of the root. It should be taken early in the day so it does not interfere with your sleep. Recommended dosage is 150 to 200 mg. It is available in both tablet and capsule form.

Side Effects of the Rhodiola Root

• There have been many studies but there are no established side effects or reported drug interactions with the use of rhodiola root; however, it is not recommended to anyone with bipolar disorder.

Studies of Rhodiola in the United States

• Richard Brown, MD, an associate professor at Columbia University, studied the rhodiola root when he went to Mongolia. He began taking the herb and experienced an increase in energy and felt less stress almost instantaneously. His wife who had accompanied him and suffered from Lyme disease took the herb for its touted energy-boosting ingredients. She also claimed that her mind seemed clearer and her memory improved.