Summary

Rhodiola, also called “Roseroot ”, grows in harsh cold northern climates, like those found in the arctic and at high altitudes. Historically, it has been used in Europe, Asia and Russia as an adaptogen, to help people cope with stress, and also to relieve fatigue.

Preliminary clinical trials support these indications. Rhodiola is often classified as a “second generation” adaptogen because its mechanism is different than other adaptogens (e.g. ginsengs, withania, astralagus). Phyto-chemically, rhodiola is different from other adaptogens because it contains tyrosol glycosides (e.g. salidroside, rosin) that appear to modulate various neurotransmitters involved in mood (e.g. serotonin, dopamine) and stress (epinephrine, norepinephrine). In addition, rhodiola may affect opioid receptors and has historically been used to help with opioid addiction.

In addition to being used to treat stress and fatigue, research studies suggest that rhodiola may help with anxiety and depression. Pharmacological studies have suggested that rhodiola inhibits enzymes that affect neurotransmitters, including monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-0-methyltransferace inhibitor (COMT). This mechanism likely contributes to its antidepressant action and thus it should not be combined with other antidepressants without consulting a healthcare provider.

Because of its effects on neurotransmitters, rhodiola has the potential to improve mental function and concentration.

Indications

Second generation adaptogen. Primary active constituents are not steroidal glycosides but rather phenylpropanoid derivatives whose mechanism of action is different. Brain tonic; rosavins (tyrosol derivatives) modulate the catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine), as well as serotonin and acetylcholine.

Endocrine
• stress
• adrenal fatigue
• chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
• hypothyroidism
• fibromyalgia

CNS
• over-stimulated states
- insomnia
• mood disturbances
- depression
- anxiety
• poor cognition - attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, ADD)
• neurodegenerative disorders - Parkinson's disease- Alzheimer's disease

Cardiovascular
• over-stimulated heart - arrhythmias- hypertension

Reproduction
• sexual dysfunction related to stress
- erectile dysfunction (ED)
- menstrual complaints
- amenorrhea
• infertility

Exercise
• athletic performance
• decreased endurance
• prolonged recovery time between high-intensity exercise sessions

Actions

• Adaptogen
• Tonic
• Stimulant
• Sedative
• Brain Tonic
• Nootropic
• Antidepressant
• Cardiotonic
• Cardioprotective
• Antiarrhythmic
• Antihypertensive
• Anticancer
• Antiinflammatory
• Antiaging

Constituents

• Phenylpropanoid Derivatives (Tyrosol Glyscosides, Salidroside)
• Flavonoids

Posology

• Tincture (1:4) 2-3 ml tid
• Capsules (3% rosavins): 100-600mg qd
• Decoction (dried herb): 1-2 tsp tid

Safety

Generally considered safe when used as indicated.

Side effects: Insomnia (rare) if taken in the evening.

References

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Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.

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Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines, 3rd ed. Sandy, Oregon: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000.

Felter HW, Lloyd JU. King's American Dispensatory. 1898. http://www.ibiblio.org/herbmed/eclectic/kings/main.html. Accessed: August 19, 2006.

Hoffman D. Medical Herbalism. Rochester, Vermont: Healing Arts Press, 2003.

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Williamson EM, ed. Major Herbs of Ayurveda. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2002