Rhodiola rosea
|
Posted by Elaine Moore Apr 21, 2007 |
The golden root of the herb, Rhodiola rosea, a member of the Crassulaceaea family originating in the high altitude regions of Asia and Europe, has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties. For people with autoimmune diseases, Rhodiola offers numerous benefits related to its antioxidant, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. In addition, Rhodiola improves nervous system function, enhances immune system function, has sexual-stimulating properties, reduces the toxic effects of various immunosuppressant and chemotherapeutic agents and it reduces the deleterious effects of oxidative stress and neurasthenia related to both physical and mental stress.
Traditional Uses
In traditional folk medicine, R. rosea was used to increase physical endurance, longevity, resistance to high altitude sickness, and to treat fatigue, depression, anemia, impotence, gastrointestinal ailments, infections, and nervous system disorders. Other uses included the treatment of hysteria, menstrual problems, infertility, erectile dysfunction, headache, pain, and various cancers. R. rosea also has protective effects on the heart, and it is reported to improve vascular problems.
Today, in certain Siberian villages, bouquets of Rhodiola flowers are presented to newly married couples to enhance fertility. And because of its ability to improve cognitive function, reduce fatigue, and preserve memory, Rhodiola is widely used as an anti-aging substance.
Active ingredients
Since 1960, more than 180 studies have been published describing the phytochemical properties of R. rosea. Six major types of chemicals have been found including
- Phenylpropanoids: rosavin, rosin, rosarin (specific to R. rosea;
- Phenylethanol derivatives: salidroside (rhodioloside), tyrosol;
- Bioflavinoids, including lavanoids: rodiolin, rodionin, rodiosin, acetylrodalgin, tricin;
- Monoterpernes: rosiridol, rosaridin;
- Triterpenes: daucosterol, beta-sitosterol;
- Phenolic acids: chlorogenic and hydroxycinnamic, gallic acids.
Rhodiola rosea's effects on nervous system function are attributed to its ability to optimize serotonin and dopamine levels and its induction of opioid endorphins (Altern Med Rev 2001; 6(3): 293-302).
The bioflavinoid antioxidants in Rhodiola make it an anti-inflammatory herb.
Available Preparations
With considerable interest in Rhodiola since the late 1980s, demand for R. rosea-based supplements dramatically increased. Consequently, the herb was over-harvested, resulting in a steady decline in the quality and effectiveness of "Rhodiola" preparations. The usual medicinal dose is 200-600 mg daily standardized to 3 percent rosavin and 0.8 percent salidroside.
Side Effects
R. rosea has a very low level of toxicity. In rat toxicity studies, the LD50 (lethal dose at which 50 percent of animals die) was calculated to be 28.6 ml/kg, approximately 3,360 mg/kg. The equivalent dosage in a 70 kg man would be about 235 gm or 235,000 mg.
R. rosea has very few side effects. Most users report that the herb improves their mood, energy level, and mental clarity. Used in high doses, R. rosea has a stimulating effect. If symptoms of jitteriness or anxiety are noted with use, the dose should be reduced. In addition R. rosea should be taken early in the day because it can interfere with sleep or cause vivid dreams (not nightmares) during the first few weeks.
Precautions
Because R. rosea has an activating antidepressant effect, it should not be used in individuals with bipolar disorder who are vulnerable to becoming manic when given antidepressants or stimulants. Until this has been further studied, the authors advise caution in patients with bipolar spectrum disorders. The herb does not appear to interact with other medications, though it may have additive effects with other stimulants. It is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach 30 minutes before breakfast and lunch. As with any herbal preparation, patients should inform their primary healthcare practitioner when taking R. rosea. Because R. rosea is a nervous system stimulant it should not be used in people who are excitable or nervous.
Resources:
Rhodiola rosea, Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, accessed April 3, 2007.
Richard P. Brown, M.D., Patricia L. Gerbarg, M.D., and Zakir Ramazanov, Ph.D., D.S. Rhodiola rosea: A Phytomedicinal Overview, American Botanical Council HerbalGram. 2002;56:40-52.