Adaptogens, used for thousands of years in the East as herbal remedies for a variety of ailments, are powerful herbs that are said to decrease stress levels. These herbal remedies are non-toxic, natural, and non-habit forming supplements that can boost your mood and create a state of balance within your body. Adaptogens are metabolic regulators that work with the brain to maintain homeostasis. Rhodiola Rosea is one of several adaptogens that has various benefits, from enhancing cognitive function to stimulating the immune system through the regulation of serotonin and dopamine precursors in the brain.

Rhodiola is an Herbal Serotonin Regulator

By heightening the transfer of the serotonin precursors in the human brain, Rhodiola rosea may enhance one’s ability to concentrate and prevent mental fatigue. In one study, 27 students, physicians, and scientists, aged 19-46 were given ten drops of Rhodiola rosea tincture once or twice daily for 2-3 weeks. In each person’s case, work quality improved. The herb is also said to prevent asthenia (mental fatigue and lower ability to work due to fatigue).  Benefits of Rhodiola rosea may be seen both in the short term and the long term.

Rhodiola Rosea also contains several antioxidants and are widely recognized as beneficial molecules that protect the body from oxidation and prevent the production of free radicals. Herbal antioxidant supplements may improve resistance to toxins and increase anti-tumor activity. While not an effective treatment for cancer on its own, antioxidants in Rhodiola Rosea may make it a beneficial supplement for cancer patients.

In depression patients, Rhodiola Rosea’s regulation of serotonin may help improve physical symptoms, inability to sleep, and mood swings. Regulation of neurotransmitter chemicals also effects the body’s adrenal glands, helping with the regulation of cortisol (the “stress hormone”) during episodes of psychological and physiological stress. During periods of stress, it may also be beneficial to heart health. Regulating cortisol levels may help prevent stress-induced cardiac damage and have an anti-arrhythmic effect. In one study, Rhodiola helped prevent reperfusion arrhythmias in animal hearts by activating mu-opiate receptors.

For improved cardiac health, benefits to the nervous system, enhanced alertness, reduced fatigue, superior memory function, and a boost to depressed mental state, it is recommended to take 1 capsule of Rhodiola Rosea Complete Concentrate three times each day. It may be beneficial to combine a Rhodiola Rosea supplement with Ginkgo, to improve brain function and prevent dementia. Try Gingko Biloba Complete Concentrate or special blend, like Mind & Memory. When choosing a Rhodiola Rosea alternative, remember to keep the purity of the supplement in mind. While we take care to ensure that all of the Complete Concentrates at Hanna’s Herb are made with no fillers, binders, excipients, or flowing agents, we cannot speak to the quality of supplements from other sources.

Keep in mind that herbal adaptogens are like all herbal supplements, and it may take time before benefits are seen. You may need to continue supplementing with Rhodiola for up to a month to begin seeing optimal results.