Rhodiola Rosea: Boost Health, Reduce Stress & Aging

I was a very strong advocate for Rhodiola. I loved how it helped me with mental clarity. It helped me to focus on tasks that needed attention. It kept my mind from obsessing over a bad divorce. I loved how it helped me cope in high stress situations. I took a Swedish brand called Adapt 232. It had Eleutherococcus senticocus and Schisandra chiensis in the formula. It gave me energy, mentally, more so than physically.

I loved it.

I had run out as iherb.com had run out. I bought the Now brand of rhodiola...just straight rhodiola. It wasn't as good as the proprietary brand, adapt 232.

So...when the supplier got their shipment of adapt 232 in, they sent me an email alert to let me know they had replenished their stock. I was in fear of them and me running out again so I ordered three boxes.

When it arrived I took two immediately.

BIG MISTAKE...REALLY BIG MISTAKE.

I went to the emergency room that night. I woke up from a dead sleep at 4 a.m. my heart pounding and racing wildly. I felt as though my internal organs were separating...I felt a deep deep sense of DOOM. I was certain I was having a heart attack or something but it hurt like hell and I was having trouble breathing.

I was diagnosed with panic disorder...I think I was injected with tranquilizers... because I calmed down. I asked if they gave me something... two separate personnel said no...but I felt a change. I was relaxed. After many tests and drawn blood they shoved me out the door at 6 a.m. and sent me home with a script for lorazepan... which I filled for just in case. I've never taken one.

I researched side effects for rhodiola.. and panic attacks was one of them. I quit rhodiola...much asI loved it. And have not had any heart fluttering since. Im having difficulty with this mobile site continuing with my testimony/ review.

Hello,

I recently ordered a bulk package of Rhodiola Rosea root powder, and discovered the package didn't contain dosage directions or a "scoop" of any sort. I was wondering, since you provide a standard dosage of 200-600mg, what exactly that would look like in terms of teaspoons? As in, how many milligrams of Rhodiola is in 1/4 tsp - 1/2 tsp?

I contacted the website but they couldn't provide any information, so I greatly appreciate any information you may have! We are using the powder for research and development of a product, so it is (obviously) crucial to know dosage equivalents!

Thank you for your time, Megan

I started taking Rhodiola Rosea off & on a few months ago. (Gaia Herbs brand) with one capsule before food (120 mg). When trying it at the recommended higher dose (240 mg), I became incredibly tired, as if I took a sleeping pill. I do have insomnia so I'm guessing that had something to do with it.

Have read to take this herb "one week on & one week off". Please advise. Thank you.

It's funny how many people here are stating that RR has made them worse, and cited all sorts of side effects, yet none are shouting from the rooftops about all the good it can do you. How many of you have been brainwashed by the medical establishment? It interferes with pharmaceutical antidepressants does it? Maybe you shouldn't be taking the antidepressants!! They're what is poisoning you.

How many of these posts have been 'written' by people in the medical industry just for scare-mongering purposes, to shoehorn people in need of help towards their expensive and poisonous, addictive drugs?

I know RR affects people in different ways, but I have nothing but good things to say about it, as do millions of others. If you misuse or abuse it, yes it may have some minor side effects, and can increase anxiety or irritability in a SMALL PERCENTAGE of cases, but why are all of these people apparently posting on here? It does not give a balanced representation in any way.

My suggestion - don't be put off by the scaremongering and all that - try it for yourself. Buy a good brand (not one of the chinese brands as they are NOT the same) like Viridian and follow thesuggested dosage, building up slowly. It can work wonders.

Just my opinion obviously, if you experience any side effects then stop, but fewer people than you think experience any negative effects. They've just all clubbed together to post here!!!

Be happy :-)

I purchased Rhodiola Rosea for a fat belly. When I was having withdrawals from Norco I took it and it took away my restless legs and shakes. I took 3 a day before meals.

I've experienced positive results from taking a supplement called Rhodiola force 300, by New Chapter. I don't have bipolar disorder but was taking it at an intensely stressful time. What I experienced was amazing. My mood was elevated, I had mental clarity and I was functioning optimally. How many of us can say that on a regular basis? It took the edge completely off, without making me feel wired or tired. It just calmed me the perfect amount. I didn't feel drugged or anything strange- just really well! When I purchased this product, I was told that it was potent. It was recommended by the health food store employee where I frequent. He personally takes the product and was the one to tell me that it was a stress adaptogen, which means that it helps the body deal better with stress. I definitely needed it! I would recommend it for high levels of stress, but cannot speak for anyone having bipolar disorder. I believe there is a less potent Rhodiola product available by New Chapter, also. I've also read that Holy Basil is another stress adaptogen, but haven't tried it.

I am writing about the use of Rhodiola. I know how bad anxiety and panic attacks feel like I had them many years. It shocks me that so many have taken Rhodiola to feel better. I know how one wants to get better in a hurry. For me that makes me worried anything that makes you feel that good in such a short time seems troublesome to me. I don't like counting on something so much that I can't get over these panic attacks on my own.

I do understand a little help but will I have to take this the rest of my life? Has anyone gotten better just taking this for a short time?

Best way to test rhodiola is to take it in small doses and see if your brain chemistry likes it. Not doubt some brands are better than others. I didn't have great results when I tried it, but I only tried one brand. I have read on Earth Clinic that 5 days on and 2 days off for supplements each week is wise. I try to give my body a break from all supplements once in a while. Good luck.

Rhodiola Herbal supplement: This supplement - I purchased for my daughter I thought was supposed to help her focus- I started to take it. This supplement made me feel SUPER anxious, extrememly irritated, jittery and just did not do what I was told it would do. I would not recommend this to anybody. I purchased mine from GNC for $29.00 and I regret it. I wish I did my research first on this. I took it for a week before I realized that it was this herb that was making me feel out of sorts.

I was told a couple of years ago the company who produces FSC Rhodiola Root, went bankrupt, but I figured this was because not enough people were talking about because they wanted to keep it a secret (it was that good). I found it on a website last night and immediately bought even though I'm unsure whether the tablets will be regulated? I'm so despurate for a good rhodiola root that makes me feel rumbustious. I am naturally suffer from anxiety attacks and mild depression because of this issue. I just want more from life and embrace it.

Please can you help me out with a regulated UK brand and let me know whether I should trust this website selling the FSC rhodiola root?

Viridian is a trusted UK brand. Go for the high potency 150 Rhodolia Rosea. I don't usually get on with herbs but this works and is amazing..... , hope it helps you

Rhodiola: for depression and stress relief: I've been taking 100mg a day 1/2hr before meals for about 3wks nor hoping to relieve nerve tension my nerves are bad. I'm 43 yrs old. I consider myself to be a healthy individual I have posterial tremors in (nerve shaking in hands and legs) as well as mild depression and stress. The only other only herbal supplements I take are calcium, vitamin D. The only changes I've noticed with taking rhodiola is my sleep pattern. It helps me wake up in the morning without feeling so tired. I don't have trouble sleeping. I fall asleep easily but hard for me to wake up in the morning without feeling if I haven't gotten enough sleep even though I have. That's the only noticeable change I've felt. I need something to calm my nereves I feel anxious at times and jittery. What would you recommend?

I would give Holy Basil, valerian root, and 5HTP a try. They have helped me with depression and somewhat with anxiety. For the anxiety you may want to try EFT (emotional freedom technique). Lots of youtube videos on using EFT for anxiety. EFT got me through some really bad anxiety and I felt a huge difference after just 10min of doing EFT.

Rhodiola side effects and want to purchase in oz: I would like to know where in Australia I can get the siberian safe rhodiola. I also am worried of what it can do to other healthy parts of the brain.

Hi Michael, It's awesome that you are getting such great results from your rhodiola! Where are you getting it from? Rhodiola is known to enhance both physical and mental endurance, it is beneficial for those living under stressful conditions(isn't that everyone these days?! ), is beneficial to the cardiovascular system and is a powerful immune strengthener. One very important aspect is, it is a safe and powerful antidepressant. So no wonder, you're having such great responses. Have you tried any other Chinese herbs? I like reishi and chaga mushroom to build the body since they are powerful adaptogens and also goji and schizandra which have unbelievable attributes as well. I love the way the Chinese herbs have helped me in so many ways and take them on a regular daily basis. My energy is steady and my health strong. Best to you! Lisa

sorry it on this thread xxxx i was trying to ask can we have a de-tox symtom page xxxxxxx that will be of great help to a lot of people xxxxx i was trying to contact e/c to suggest it xxxxx different regimes bring thier own sytoms with them xxx it will hit some of us hader than other's xx but 'sharing' will help a lot of people xxxxx we won'r all have the same ones xxxxx 'flu' symtom's is common xxxx but feeling 'worse' than that will happen xxxx i am sure a lot of folk would like to see othe'rs experience, so they know thier not going mad or dying xxx love andrea cc xxxxx

I have been taking 500 mg of Rhodiola by NOW and have begun to suffer from severe anxiety. The anxiety is so severe it borders on anxiety attacks. I exercise daily and eat well, but taking Rhodiola has sent me to counseling. At first I didn't know why I was feeling so out-of-control until it dawned on me...... it was the Rhodiola.

Yes, heightened anxiety is known as a possible side effect of Rhodiola. Most people will not experience this, but I have also felt anxiety from taking Rhodiola.

The first time I took it, however, for a number of months, I experienced only the positive effects of increased energy and well-being. So it seems to depend on other factors in the body (metabolism, perhaps?)

Hi Debra, I'm sorry you had such a experience from rhodiola use. This is why I tell people they should be evaluated by a qualified person before embarking on Chinese herb use. It is one thing to use the adaptogens but otherwise, there are lots of things considered about each individual before then recommending the herbs appropriate to the person's body state. I take rhodiola but it was given to me by a Chinese herbalist and it is also in a formula I use. I was told it would be good for me but if I saw any anxiety, to stop immediately. I have not seen that happen. When you got the rhodiola, did someone recommend it to you or did you just decide it sounded good?

You might want to consider calling Dragon Herbs and getting a free phone consultation where they will evaluate you through lots of questions and you explaining your lifestyle, etc. If you read the testimonies from both Meg and Sue here on the Latest Post page, you will see their experiences from this course of action.

Wishing you well, Lisa

Hi... Would you please suggest resources from which I can procure the appropriate form of Rhodiola as mentioned in your article, "Rhodiola Cures and Side Effects"? Please advise. Regards, Craig

Hi Craig, I have always benefited from Chinese herbs so am a big advocate of them. I use Ron Teeguarden's Chinese herbs because I have such faith in his ethics and he is so passionate about his work. I have had the great fortune of hearing him speak a few times and his knowledge is absolutely remarkable. I have even been able to speak with him for personal advice regarding my health. His site also offers a lot of valuable information.

He goes back and forth between here and China often to check on his plants, herbs and sources. So, though he uses Wild Tibetan Rhodiola which is mentioned in the section you are referring to, I have no doubts of the quality he offers. I use his 8 Immortals formula which has this in it but my results are amazing. I have so much energy and find I wake up easily at about 5:45am after using this now on a regular basis. You might want to check it out. I will add the link to the actual Formula I take but, you will then be on his site.

http://www.dragonherbs.com/prodinfo.asp?number=017

He offers other formulas as well with this as an ingredient but it is not offered alone. Often in Chinese medicine, you will find that combinations are superior as the formulas have key and supporting players.

I hope this helps, Lisa

What happened with your Dr. Did you get the results you epected? Just wondering because I'm having similar isues.

Hello where can I get the true Russian version of Rhodiola Rosea? Thanks

I'm also trying to find Siberian Rhodiola, the root, not a tincture or pills. I'm looking for the root in chopped rather than powdered form. I have not been able to find it online. Anyone have any ideas? If you want a tincture with both alcohol and glycerine, Herb Pharm makes one with Siberian hand-picked rhodiola rosea.

Search herb pharm store locator to find stores that sell roots.

I'm sorry. I've read this entire blog and came away with several versions and several dosages. Some from Siberia, Some from Canada, some from Asia.

I need something to relieve my stress and depression I've developed over my wife's diagnosis of advanced cancer. I'm depressed and simply wake up sick to my stomach every morning. This cannot help her either.

Can someone give me a link to a spot that they know works for certain (has the 3% rosavins, salidroside, Siberian, choice of dosages, etc.)?

Thanks to all......

Debbie, Thanks for the information on the tea for my wife. I am going to dedicate my day to researching this.

Bruce, also remember that cancer cannot survive in an alkaline body, so lots of organic green juices. No sugar, because cancer feeds on sugar. No meat because it is acidic. No processed foods.

Also a book I am reading at the moment by Dr. H. E. Kirschner ("Live Juices") speaks of the amazing properties of carrots. This was written in about 1959 and says even back then food was losing its nutritional value. He says the way to get nutrition into the body is via juicing. He says that in the past carrots were known as an antiseptic in the body. They clear up toxins in the body and heal it. He cited some people in the book (with photographs) who were on nothing but a carrot juice diet (not even water) for sometimes over 12 months and they cured their cancers. They ate or drank nothing else. A baby who was born with leukemia drank nothing but carrot juice for the first three months of his life to no ill effect. One little boy was 2 1/2 and for 2 years had nothing but carrots. His transformation in the photos was amazing. Organic carrots would be the best of course. Funny, none of them turned orange (like we have been led to believe by eating too many carrots!! ).

All the best

For Bruce and any others who are interested: I am not too well-versed in supplements and am here to learn. But I read your letter and thought of something I have had experience with. Although there many kinds of herbs and natural supplements that may be recommended here, there is something else that can often get relief very quickly. It costs nothing, is simple, and easy to learn. It is especially effective on emotional issues. It is called, "tapping" or EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and it really works. It has even proven to be a Godsend for people with PTSD.

Go to www.garythink.com and even though you might think it silly or impossible... Just try it once. I believe you will feel relief instantly!

I disagree that Rhodiola has to be from Siberia. How are you going to find it if you are in North America? Sure the seeds have to be shipped from Finland or Siberia. But then you can grow them in Alberta as Alberta farmers have done here in Canada for several years. And then the root can be processed into supplements. I even bought some seedlings of Rhodiola from Harmonic Herbs in Barrhead AB and planted them in my backyard, they appear to be doing well. Once the plants grow I'm using the leaves and flowers to make Rhodiola tea, and around 2017 once I know how to harvest the roots, I will do that too. In October of this year I plan on gettings some seeds germinating in the cold and then once they are big enough in the small planters, planting them in the front yard, here in Calgary.

It is also grown in somewhat limited quantities in Alaska.