Table of Contents
| QUESTIONS & ANSWERS | ||||
| ANXIETY | ||||
| BREAST PAIN | ||||
| DEPRESSION | ||||
| DOSAGES | ||||
| ENERGY | ||||
| GENERAL FEEDBACK | ||||
| HASHIMOTO'S THYROIDITIS | ||||
| LONG DISTANCE DRIVING | ||||
| MEDICATION INTERACTION | ||||
| MULTIPLE CURES | ||||
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Rhodiola Cures and Side Effects
Rhodiola is a powerful anti-aging and anti-stress formula that is very popular in Russia. It is finally gaining momentum in Europe and North America. In Russia, Rhodiola is commonly given to astronauts, soldiers, athletes and aging political leaders! It reportedly helps with fatigue and mental performance. Athletes take it to improve endurance & performance as it aids in the restoration of strength with increased physical loads. We know people taking Rhodiola who are severely sleep-deprived due to odd working hours or stress. Rather than walking zombies, they are alert and well functioning. The difference is quite amazing apparently.
Rhodiola is typically taken by long distance drivers, flight personnel, traffic controllers and the elderly for increased attention.
Soviet studies have shown that Rhodiola rosea, when combined with physical exercise, can be a powerful tool in weight reduction as it activates of fat-tissue lipase, resulting in the breakdown of stored fat.
A Chinese animal study has shown that Rhodiola slowed heart rate and lowered blood pressure. Russian and Korean animal studies have shown that rhodiola protects the liver and can help it recover from exposure to certain poisons.
Rhodiola is known to be a powerful antioxidant and may be used in treating cancer. Studies have shown that rhodiola reduced the cell mutations associated with cancer as well as help the body's ability to repair DNA mutations.
WARNINGS: Rhodiola can cause anxiety and the "jitters". Be cautious about buying a brand that also contains caffeine.
DOSAGE:
The typical amounts of Rhodiola are 200 - 600 mg per day of a Rhodiola rosea extract standardized to contain 2-3% rosavins and 0.8-1% salidroside. Rhodiola is taken with water before meals or at meals.
You should buy only Rhodiola of Russian origin with key active components of Rosavin, Rosarin and Rosin. Be careful -- in the USA, Rhodiola rosea formulas sold as "Tibetan" Rhodiola or Chinese Rhodiola contain no active components. These formulas lack the key ingredient Rosavins while they are high in Salidroside. Supposedly, only Rhodiola from West and North Siberia contains the critical components of Rosavin, Rosarin and Salidroside.
Interestingly, it has been noted that Rhodiola has a stimulating effect at lower amounts and a sedating effect at higher amounts. A high dose of Rhodiola extract is considered to be daily intakes of 1,500 - 2,000 mg and above.
Do you take this herb? If so, please write to us and let us know what you think.
DISCLAIMER
Our readers offer information and opinions on Earth Clinic, not as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.
POPULAR REMEDIES:
| STRESS, FATIGUE, DEPRESSION | 13 YEAS |
| MULTIPLE CURES | 6 YEAS |
ANXIETY
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[YEA] 12/19/2010: Denyse from Orillia, Ontario Canada writes: "I began taking rhodiola 2 weeks ago, I am a 49yr old women I think I was losing my mind I was unable to sleep or should I say I was unable to stay asleep I was always so tired every morning and all day long, So I went online looking for somrthing to help but I wanted to keep it natural, I am a recovering addict I have not used for 3 and a half yrs so I do stay away from anything that is not natural.
Anyways wow at 1st I shrugged it off but now I kno this stuff really works and works well, I would say that u should only take this in the morning as it will keep u awake I take 500mils every morning and I find this to be perfect. This is the 1st time I have shared my info with anyone I was excited to share with others in the hopes others will feel as good as I Peace And Blessings."
Replies10/07/2011: Thehealthyrapper from Houston, T.x replies: "I knew that rhodiola is like the all natural "No Dose" but I had no idea that it helped with cancer, cyst on breast, lowering blood pressure etc. like I learned on this post! Very valuable information!"
12/28/2011: Tumbleweedboy from Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada replies: "Denyse, where did you get your supplement from? I would like to try it...."
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[QUESTION] 09/13/2010: Matt from Ireland writes: "Hello I just began taking a combo of rhodiola and 5-htp for anxiety and depression. But I recently purchased a more potent rhodiola root by yarrow 500 mm online. And it said on the bottle not to be taken for anxiety so I'm confused as to what I should do?"
Replies06/14/2011: Marykaye from Chippewa, Pa. replies: "I have been taking Rhodiola for years and think it is awesome. I just got some Rhodiola from GNC, 340 mg, and it does not seem to have the same effect as the other manufacturers I have used. This has 3% rosavins and say rhodiola rosea root extract. Has anyone tried the GNC Rhodiola?"
11/17/2011: Karen from Temple, Tx, Usa replies: "Hi my name is Karen, I have purchased the Rhodiola from GNC and I felt like I wasted $30.00 it did not work. With intensive research on the internet I found 1000mg at vitacost. Sometimes I feel like I'm going to just lose it because I worry and think about things that aren't true but my mind makes them true I just about make myself go major nuts sometimes. If I didn't have these pills I don't know what I would do. The ones from vitacost are from Siberia and 3% which is what you want."
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[YEA] 05/13/2008: Barbara from Minneapolis, MN writes: "Works within an hour. I have outrageous anxiety. Glad I found this web site for an herbal remedy."
Replies07/02/2008: Clara from West Palm Beach, Florida replies: "Barbara: What brand of Rhodiola do you use and dose? Thank you."
12/03/2009: Phyllis from Scottsdale, Az replies: "I've just looked over this page on Rhodiola and find some disconcerting misinformation. YES - RHODIOLA will cause some people (notably those who are bipolar) possible manic episodes if taken in too high a dose. One person says they are taking 600 MG a day. That's too high for most people. Try taking 150 mg of a good Rhodiola and then moving up to maybe 300 mg if you like the feeling. No reason to do any more than that. We've had seven years experience with Rhodiola in our household, with great success. But, not for skin lightening!! I don't know where one poster got that idea (and the dose she's taking is WAY too much). Consider Rhodiola an herb that is to be respected and treated gingerly. It has been used for many centuries, quite safely."
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BREAST PAIN
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[YEA] 03/14/2009: Susan Cole from Beverly, Ma. writes: "I have cysts in my breasts and was having xrays at hospital done and they made my left side breast cyst burst . The pain was very bad and I went looking for natural cures and found Rhodiola rosea and one capsules stopped the pain . I took it every day from that time on to now. I use only natural cures now and eat natural foods only"
Replies08/04/2010: Sarah from Bloomfield Twp., Michigan/ Usa replies: "I have chronic pain and would need to know the dosage, frequency and the brand. Thank you, Sarah"
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DEPRESSION
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01/10/2012: Ella from Flint, Flintshire writes: "I was first introduced to this herb in 2005 for depression, with excellent results the first time in my life I felt alive. The store closed and I haven't been able to find any other rhodiola that works for me they either send my anxiety levels way too high or I suffer from deliberating headaches. I am not sure if the fillers cause problems or the rhodiola is not good quality, I would love to feel alive again please can anyone help.
Is there a difference between rhodiola rosea and rhodiola rosea root extract? I have bought both in the past but nothing worked like the stores own brand I tried in 2005."
Replies01/11/2012: Timh from Louisville, Usa replies: "Ella, St. Johns Wort is standard herb for depression. I get good results in combination with the amino acid Tyrosine. Consider 3 mg Melatonin before retiring for good night sleep AND a Glutathione boost. Take a good multivitamin/mineral supplement w/ every meal. Maybe extra Vit B-12 and D.There are very many causes of Depression, have you tried any detoxification or body cleanses, fast???
Any type spiritual practice, particularly Meditation can allow some degree of light from BEING into consciousness. Cannabis is a wonderful happy herb, but can cause anxiety if used improperly.
Hope this helps."
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[YEA] 11/07/2011: Allie from Fullerton, Ca writes: "Rhodiola is my new miracle cure. I have suffered severe chronic depression and fatigue for decades. I began this supplement about three weeks ago, and I feel like a new person. Better than any of the multitude of anti-depressants I have ever tried--and no side effects."
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DOSAGES
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[YEA] 02/19/2008: Coach from USA, USA writes: "Rhodiola at low doses will give a stimulatory effect and at higher doses of the higher quality 5% Rosavins Rhodiola will give you a calming effect."
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ENERGY
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12/29/2011: Melody from Pine Valley, Ca writes: "Rhodiola was prescribed for me by a naturopathic doctor in a la di dah clinic in La Jolla, CA, for helping my adrenals. It is an adaptogen that lowers or raises your cortisol levels depending upon what's needed. I noticed an increase in energy as soon as I started taking it."
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[YEA] 11/04/2011: Kenny G from Las Vegas, Nevada, United States writes: "Yes I have taken Rhodiola 110 manufactured by nutrilite for good number of years now. I have found it's the most effective energy boost I can take without coffee or Redbull or Monster energy drinks. I have more stamina and mental clarity when I need it without the crash."
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[BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS] 10/27/2011: Marilyn from Belleville Ont, Canada writes: "I like AOR rhodiola and it does give me a lot of energy and stamina in my exercise classes. But I do always have a low grade headache that makes me feel out of sorts. I also am annoyed with companies that claim Asian Rhodiola is the same as Siberian as there is a massive difference. I have absolutely no effect from Asian Rhodiola. Over all a very good herb but you should cycle this from time to time. Take a few days off a week for instance."
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[YEA] 10/25/2011: Anne from Moncton, New Brunswick writes: "I've heard Rhodiola mentioned by Dr. Oz on his show & the great things associated with it. I have just started taking the capsule a few days ago & WOW! I have increased energy & stamina, my mental alertness has increased and I feel great. I have been working shift work for almost 20 years now and feel the effects of it on my body. Taking Rhodiola has given me a little boost just where I need it! I think it's great!"
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[YEA] 05/22/2008: Chris Bates from Derby, England writes: "I'm on rhodiola rosea rosavin. very important, been on this for 3 years now. it's a miracle. I'm 46, work 12 hour days plus sat morning. Up at 430am, back home 700pm every night, working in hot laundry. adaption rate is every day. I just get stronger every day, stress easy to cope with, I could go on all day. I'm so happy. I'm paid the minmum wage, but that's not important. I know at the end ov the day that I will be stronger the next day. more people need to know about this supplement."
Replies01/10/2011: Allan from San Fernando, Trinidad And Tobago replies: "What is the brand name of the rhodiola that you are using?"
02/15/2011: Rachael from Chaguanas, Trinidad And Tobago replies: "I use rhodiola root c/s and I make it into a tea. You have to get the organic brand."
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GENERAL FEEDBACK
08/15/2011: Evan from Boulder, Colorado writes: "The dose is everything with Rhodiola. Low doses are stimulatory, raising dopamine/norepi levels. High doses are (paradoxically) sedating, raising serotonin levels. To make things more complex, each brand has a different potency and source, so the amount in milligrams is not the only indicator of strength. If you want to get serious about trying Rhodiola, you need to try different brands. I have tried three (Planetary Herbals, Thorne, and NSI), all have different effects.
I also want to add that Rhodiola should be seen as something you take in times of stress, not something you should plan to take every day for months at a time. I can personally only take it every other day, even during stressful times.
The medical literature includes one case study of a woman who had a complete recovery from depression with daily dosage of Rhodiola over many years, but everyone has different genetic, environmental, and dietary factors. You have to experiment to know what works for you, and since it's something you should only take when you're stressed, you might provoke a negative reaction. So be careful, Rhodiola is powerful and can have negative effects, but it can also be a lifesaver in times of persistent stress and anxiety."
Replies11/07/2011: Allie from Fullerton, Ca replies: "WHICH OF THE THREE BRANDS DO YOU PREFER? I HAVE USED ONLY THE THORNE AND LOVE IT. IM ONLY TAKING 100 MG PER MORNING, BUT NOW I FEEL ALIVE AGAIN!"
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06/16/2011: Michele from San Francisco, Ca writes: "I have been taking it for a few days. The brand I take is by Gaia. Is that a Russian strain or Tibetan? It doesn't say on the bottle. It does say it has a formula of Rosavins 12mg "validated full spectrum profile".
So far it's hard to tell what it does for me. I heard about it on Dr. Oz. I need a bit more energy during the day to take me through the eveings so I can excercise when I get home. I am overweight so reading that it helps to break down fat was incouraging!
I haven't noticed jitters, just alertness that is similar to drinking green tea."
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05/20/2011: Chris from Shelby, Nc writes: "I would to ask you a question about rhodiloa rosea extract.. I want to know if (energy 28 or Morenaturalenergy pills) have caffeine in it? as brand they said they don't have caffeine in it.. They brand " no caffeine" I have an irregular heart.. but I read somewhere they warn that they could have some caffeine in it.. Because of Rhodiloa rosea extract.. They have some caffeine it.. But they label " no caffeine" on any bottles.. Please tell me the truth.
Thank you, Chris"
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10/17/2010: Carol from Matthews, Nc writes: "I read the article on warnings about purchasing "Tibetan" Rhodiola or Chinese Rhodiola. Do you know where the Russian origin or West or North Siberia Rhodiola is sold? Thank you."
Replies10/18/2010: Robin from Rural, Va replies: "I have a great source for this, which I would be happy to share. You can email me at home 4 us 2004 @ yahoo.com (remove spaces)"
10/03/2011: Barb J from Boston, Mass, Usa replies: "Oh, if it's the Amway version, it DOES contain caffeine..."
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HASHIMOTO'S THYROIDITIS
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[YEA] 03/16/2009: Paola from Lugano, Ticino/Switzerland writes: "Rhodiola for Hashimoto Disease: Thyroid:
I have been taking Russian-Rhodiola for a week now, 300g in the morning. I'll see my Doctor tomorrow, as I am also under pills for my thyroid, and I would like to replace thyroid chemical pills (Levothyroxine sodium - thyroid hormones) with rhodiola's cure, let's see what he's going to tell me. I feel definitely better, from the first day. I used to be chronically tired, now not anymore."
Replies08/04/2010: Sarah from Bloomfield Twp., Michigan/usa replies: "Hello Paola,What did your Dr. Tell you about your Thyroid medication vs your Rhodiola at 300mg, once per day? I am suffering from chronic fatigue and chronic pain and have tried Thyroid medication with questionable results. Thank you, Sarah"
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LONG DISTANCE DRIVING
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[YEA] 04/09/2010: Byoung from Downey, Ca writes: "Rhodiola has been touted as helping focus during intense exercise. I'm not one of those people. Instead, my bottle of rhodiola lives in my car for my long drives (usu. about 7 hours). After about 5 hours of driving, I'm not as alert and take a tablet. I've found that within a minute or two (not long) after taking it, I feel fresh and alert - not at all jittery or buzzed. The one I use contains rhodiola rosea (root), vit C, green tea extract (leaves), spinach (leaves), and acerola concentrate blend (fruit)."
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MEDICATION INTERACTION
04/22/2011: Ronni from Wilton, Ct writes: "A friend of mine gave me a bottle of rhodiola and after reading about how wonderful it is, I am a little nervous about taking it because I am on effexor and ritalin not to mention blood pressure meds and cholesterol meds. Has anyone tried it while still on these kind of meds?"
Replies09/27/2011: Yvonne from Houston, Tx Usa replies: "I have been taking rhodiola since August 17, 2011. Today is 9/27/11. I have lost 21 lbs."
10/08/2011: Niecy from Detroit, Michigan replies: "I am on wellbutrin, BP meds and cholesterol meds. Will this supplement interact with these?"
12/02/2011: Mom2 from Chicago, Illinois replies: "Yvonne, what brand and dose do you take?"
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MULTIPLE CURES
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[BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS] 11/23/2011: Jennifer from Sunrise, Fl, Usa writes: "Rhodiola is one of the best supplements in my product arsenal!! It has helped me tremendously with my depression, physical stamina, fatigue, anxiety, and with my skin.
I suffer from Hashimoto's thyroiditis and have very low energy reserves. One of the biggest problems that I had was that I could barely get through the day without taking a nap. In addition, although I exercise every day, I had to exercise at night because after 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, I would be completely wiped out (if I could get through 30 minutes at all).
After taking rhodiola (and oil pulling) every day, I noticed that I no longer needed to take a nap during the day anymore. Since taking rhodiola and oil pulling, I feel alert, energized, and refreshed all day - After 6 years of suffering with low thyroid, I finally feel like a "normal" person again. The difference in my physical stamina is just incredible. I feel like I can accomplish almost anything physically - now I can run for 30 minutes with extra energy to spare!
Another wonderful benefit is that rhodiola is great for your skin. I take it with vitamin E and now my acne-prone skin is much clearer, even-toned, and has a wonderful "glow".
The only side effect/drawback of rhodiola that I experiencd was with my anxiety. At first, rhodiola really helped me with my mild anxiety, but after a few weeks, my anxiety became very severe to the point where I was starting to get panic attacks and a constant feeling of dread, so I discontinued use. (I had the same anxiety "rebound" problem with 5-HTP and Acetyl L-Carnitine when I was taking those too). Now, I take a teaspoon of ionic magnesium citrate every day, which has cured my anxiety. With the magnesium, I can finally take the rhodiola again without any anxiety problems."
Replies12/02/2011: Mom2 from Chicago, Illinois replies: "Jennifer, what brand and dose of ionic magnesium citrate do you take for your anxiety? Is it generalized anxiety disorder?"
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[YEA] 10/09/2010: Robert from Sedona, Az writes: "I've been taking this for only a week and have noticed increased energy, alertness, and better sleep patterns. I take 500mg standardized in the a.m. first thing on an empty stomach."
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[YEA] 07/08/2010: Kim52 from College Station, Tx writes: "My mother inlaw was very very sick... No energy, acting very disoriented. She was always such a active and I mean ACTIVE person. Then she got the flu and from there everything went down hill. The doctors had her on so much antibiotics her system had to be rebuilt with a probiotic treatment. This did not help and her family really thought she was a hypocondriac. To make a long story short, after one year of nothing helping and her getting weaker and weaker.... She went to see a German doctor in Dallas. He put some "machines" on her (that was her words, she was very ill)... And he prescribed her with Rhodiola (Siberian). OH MY GOSH... What a complete turn around. This woman is 74 and energetic and very beautiful for her age."
Replies07/09/2010: Robin from Zuni, Va replies: "You mention "Siberian" Rhodiola. I have history of clinical depression and have been taking this with good results. I have done a lot of research, and concluded that it has to be "Siberian". Problem is most Rhodiola does not say "Siberian" and it is extremely difficult to find a good one. I have been unable to get a product that I was very satisfied with, and currently take a product that I find is only mediocre. I know that posting a product name is a no no. But I would really like to know what product your mother in law is taking."
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[YEA] 06/20/2010: Lisa from Las Vegas, NV writes: "Love this. Started taking Rhodiola a week ago due to fatigue and menopause issues. Haven't felt this good in a long time. Major improvement in overall energy, mental clarity and depression."
Replies07/19/2011: Becky from Fort Wayne, In replies: "Please tell me the brand you are using as I need something for menopause symptoms. Thanks"
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[YEA] 12/06/2009: Pigaman from Middleboro, Ma. Usa writes: "I have been taking rhodiola for about 2.5 months. I felt the effects right from the start. I am a 62 year old male and in very good health. I took the rhodiola for more energy and faster recovery from sports workouts. I am seeing almost all of the reported benefits. I take one 500 mg capsule before breakfast. It is russian rhodiola extract 5% rosavins. As a bonus, I have lost 10-12 lbs which I have been trying to lose for a few years now. So far so good."
Replies04/28/2010: Constant from Washington , Dc replies: "Does anyone have a suggestion on a good place to purchase this or another brand?"
05/01/2010: Martha from Greenville, Sc replies: "The best brand of this product is New Chapter. Buy it on vitacost.com -- cheaper than anywhere. Read what people say about the product."
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[YEA] 08/03/2009: Sixfurlongs from Corona, Ca. writes: "rhodiola with 3% of rosavin two to four per day, results clear mind, reduces anxieties, balanced attitude better sex drive, increases stamina and fights the blues. I take it with 50mg. of zoloft no interaction and helps the side effect of sex. I find it the better the quality the better the results."
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