Rhodiola
Main Actions:
- Adaptogen
- Improved physical performance
- Improved mental performance
- Antidepressant
- Immunomodulation
- Antibacterial
- Cardioprotective
- Improved cardiac function
- Antioxidant
- Antidiabetic
- Anti inflammatory
- Neuro protective
- Liver Support
Rhodiola appears to be able to significantly reduce the fatigue and 'burnout' that come from stress and anxiety; numerous trials suggest meaningful effects, particularly in people with stress and anxiety issues. This may extent to exercise, since there's some evidence that acute supplementation before exercise can reduce fatigue, but more research is needed before we can be confident in that.
Furthermore, it seems to have an effect on reducing stress and anxiety themselves, and may improve mood generally. Whether or not this is secondary to a reduction in fatigue is hard to say. As can be expected from a reduction in fatigue, research suggests that it can improve various measures of cognitive function, assuming that fatigue is reduced.
Other potential uses of rhodiola include preliminary evidence that it is highly neuroprotective against toxins (requires more evidence) and that ingestion of rhodiola or its active component can reduce stress-induced binge eating in female rats. In the brain, Rhodiola appears to be highly serotonergic (increases serotonin) and reduces corticosteroids; the inhibition of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) commonly attributed to hodiola may not be relevant following oral ingestion of rhodiola, however. Rhodiola may also promote longevity, with preliminary (non-mammalian) evidence suggesting up to a 20% increase in lifespan secondary to mechanisms that are indepedent of caloric restriction. Although very promising, more evidence is needed to confirm.
Dosage:
Autoimmune diseases: Rhodiola might simulate the immune system. In theory, it might worsen autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and others.
Diabetes: Rhodiola might reduce blood sugar levels. In theory, rhodiola might increase the risk of blood sugar levels becoming too low, especially in patients taking insulin or other diabetes medications.
Low blood pressure: Rhodiola might lower blood pressure. In theory, rhodiola might cause blood pressure to become too low, especially in people who already have low blood pressure.
Adverse Reactions:
Serious adverse effects have not been reported and tend to be uncommon.
Avoid in known allergy.
MIlk side effects may include allergy, insomnia, irritability, fatigue at higher doses than recommended.
Drug Interactions:
- Adriamycin - beneficial interaction under naturopath/doctor supervision
- Cyclophosphamide - Avoid concurrent use
- Antidepressants - Avoid concurrent use
- P-glycoprotein substrates - Avoid concurrent use
- Cytochrome 3A4 substrates - Avoid concurrent use
- Losartan - Avoid concurrent use
*Our naturopath will consult with you to ensure this is right for you.
*Australia Post & Sendle may be a little slower due to covid delays