Rhodiola rosea: what it is, what it is for (and how to take it)

A Rhodiola rosea, also known as golden root or golden root, is a medicinal plant that is known as “adaptogenic”, that is, it is capable of “adapting” the functioning of the body, helping to increase physical resistance, reduce the effects of stress and even improve brain function.

Furthermore, this plant is also traditionally used to help treat colds, anemia, sexual impotence, lack of memory, depression, anxiety, muscle pain and mental fatigue. These health benefits are due to the fact that it is a plant rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids and other compounds, such as rosavin and salidroside.

A Rhodiola rosea It can be purchased in health food stores, compounding pharmacies and some street markets, usually in the form of capsules with the dry extract. Furthermore, it can also be consumed in the form of tea or obtained as a vitamin supplement together with B vitamins.

What is it for

A Rhodiola rosea Used for:

1. Reduce stress and anxiety

One of the most important effects of Rhodiola rosea It is your ability to lessen the effect of stress and anxiety. This happens because the plant contains compounds that appear to promote a moderate increase in endorphins, providing a feeling of well-being, which also contributes to improving mood in depression.

2. Reduce tiredness and fatigue

Although the specific reason why this happens is not yet known, several studies show that this plant reduces fatigue, increasing performance in both physical and mental tasks.

3. Stimulate memory and concentration

In some investigations, in addition to reducing stress and fatigue, Rhodiola rosea it has also demonstrated the ability to improve memory, concentration and learning capacity. This effect may be related to a greater blood supply to the brain, which can improve the ability to process and perceive information.

4. Protect the cardiovascular system

A Rhodiola rosea It has a strong antioxidant action that reduces the damage caused by oxidative stress, leading to improved cardiovascular health.

Furthermore, as the plant also helps reduce stress, anxiety and tiredness, it also indirectly affects heart rate and blood pressure.

5. Strengthen the immune system

Because it helps reduce stress levels and has strong antioxidant action, Rhodiola rosea It can be used to strengthen the immune system and increase immunity, fighting mild infections such as colds or the flu.

Some studies indicate that regular use of this plant can also increase natural killer cells and improve T cell immunity, which can end up helping the body protect itself against mutations, toxins and other harmful chemicals, and can therefore be a good ally in cancer treatment. However, further investigations are needed.

6. Improves sleep quality

And studies carried out at high altitudes, this plant has contributed to improving sleep disorders, regulating sleep-wake cycles and improving sleep quality in general, without producing the negative effects characteristic of synthetic stimulants.

7. Regulate blood sugar levels

The use of infusion of Rhodiola rosea appears to be capable of increasing the number of glucose transporters, causing the blood to be directed into the cells, so that it can be used, instead of remaining in the bloodstream.

Furthermore, other studies also indicate that this plant can reduce the absorption of carbohydrates, which makes it easier for the body to keep glucose levels well controlled.

How to consume

A Rhodiola rosea can be consumed in capsules or tea:

• Capsule: The recommended dose depends on the concentration of the dry extract of the medicinal plant in the capsule, generally varying between 100 and 600 mg per day, and should preferably be consumed in the morning. Find out how to take capsules Rhodiola rosea;
• Infusion of Rhodiola rosea: Place 1 teaspoon of the plant’s root in a cup of boiling water, let it rest for 4 hours, strain and drink up to twice a day.

Furthermore, it is also possible to consume Rhodiola rosea with B complex vitamins in the form of a multivitamin, in which case the consumption of 2 capsules per day may be recommended, and it is important that the doctor is consulted to indicate the appropriate dose.

Possible side effects

As it is an adaptogenic plant, Rhodiola rosea It is normally well tolerated and, therefore, no side effects are known. However, some people may experience dizziness, dry mouth or excessive saliva production.

Who shouldn’t take

Golden root is contraindicated in states of excitement and should not be used by children, pregnant women, breastfeeding women or patients with a known history of allergy to any of the plant’s components.