3. RHODIOLA ROSEA
What is Rhodiola Rosea?
Rhodiola Rosea is found in the frigid mountains of Asia and Europe.
It is also known by the names Golden Root and Arctic Root.
It is an especially potent herb, containing over 140 active ingredients.
Rhodiola Rosea has long been used in Scandinavia and Russia to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and associated fatigue.
Health Benefits of Rhodiola Rosea
With its vast number of active ingredients, Rhodiola Rosea offers a wide range of health benefits, including:
Decreases Anxiety and Stress
Test studies have shown that Rhodiola Rosea significantly improves the unpleasant symptoms associated with stress, such as anxiety, fatigue, and exhaustion. Test subjects who also suffered from depression reported improvements in those symptoms as well.
Improves Mental Functioning
Testing on 56 doctors who work the night shift showed that the herb reduced mental fatigue by 20% and greatly improved energy levels. The same testing performed on military cadets showed increased mental focus, reduced mental fatigue, and even improved overall exam scores by 8%.
Could Help to Control Diabetes
Rhodiola Rosea has been shown to lower the blood sugar of diabetic lab rats. It does this by increasing the blood's glucose transporters which carry glucose throughout the body.
May Fight Cancer
One of the components of this herb is Salidroside, which has shown promise in test tube experiments in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
Rhodiola Rosea Side Effects
Rhodiola is well tolerated for most people. Some people experience a mild stimulating effect.
Other possible mild side effects include sleep disturbances and nervousness.
Because rhodiola is an energizing adaptogen, it should be used with caution by individuals with sleep issues or who are overcoming health adversity.
Like many herbs, rhodiola has mild blood thinning properties; if you are taking prescription blood thinners, consult your healthcare provider before taking rhodiola.
