Rhodiola Side Effects

The use of the herb rhodiola for medicinal purposes dates back to ancient Greece. It is a plant that grows in the cold northern climates of Eastern Europe and Asia, and has only recently gained popularity in the Western hemisphere.

Considerations

• While herbs have been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes, they, like all medicines, should be used correctly and with caution. Herbs, including rhodiola, may have negative side effects that you should be aware of before taking them.

Worst Side Effects

• Rhodiola can induce high blood pressure in certain people. Rhodiola can also act as a blood thinner and should be used with caution by people taking blood-thinning medication. It may also cause heart palpitations in certain individuals.

Lesser Side Effects

• Because rhodiola boosts energy levels, side effects that may stem from a higher level of energy are excitability, irritability, restlessness, insomnia and rapid heart beat. These effects may be similar to the effects of too much caffeine in the body.

Pregnancy

• To date, there have been no ill side effects reported on fetuses of expectant mothers who have taken rhodiola.

Children

• It is not recommended that children under 10 years old take rhodiola because of possible undiagnosed allergies. Check with your health care professional before giving rhodiola to your young child (see Resources).

Toxicity

• Rhodiola has an extremely low level of toxicity, and there have been no reported contraindications with prescription medications when rhodiola is taken in moderate doses (see Resources).