Herb Technology & Rhodiola

Rhodiola extract comes from the root of the Aaron's rod plant.

Herbal technologists use Rhodiola rosea, also known as Aaron's rod, roseroot or golden root typically for stress-related disorders. Modern studies at the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belguim support this application. Rhodiola first appeared in Swedish pharmacopoeia writings in the early 1800s, and in Russia, where the herb's praised as an "adaptogen"--an herbal product that reduces stress or trauma; however, it has a much longer history as part of a healer's kit. Holistically, adaptogens like Rhodiola help the body adjust to trauma and tension.



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History

Rhodiola only recently emerged in Western herbal technology. As a folk remedy it has a long history. Greek physician Dioscorides discussed the applications for Rhodiola in 77 CE, including improving overall strength and durability. The Vikings used it similarly, while ancient Siberians added it to all manner of preparations believing it could extend health and improve fertility.

Uses & Benefits

Throughout Europe, Rhodiola rosea appears in remedies for treating fatigue, infection and sexual difficulties. Soviet healers used it as a way of improving the body's ability to withstand the harsh northern climates. Research in this part of the world increased the Western interest among herbal technologists, who likewise began looking at this plant for potential healthful qualities. While popularity in the United States is only starting to grow modernly, Rhodiola rosea continues in European healing applications for treating depression, altitude sickness and providing more energy.

Rhodiola rosea has antioxidant qualities including flavanoids, believed to decrease or slow age-related disorders.

Dosage

Rhodiola commonly comes as an extract. The average dosage is 180 mg, sometimes taken two or three times a day. Herb technologists tell us that maintaining dosage over a longer period of time provides better results than increasing dosage.

Warnings

As with any change in health protocols, women who are nursing or pregnant, or people with other known chronic medical conditions should consult with their primary care physician before trying Rhodiola rosea. While, in general, herb technicians indicate Rhodiola rosea as safe, some individuals experience nervousness. Avoid caffeine when using this herb.

Habitat & Description

Rhodiola rosea enjoys northern climates like Scandanavia, Ireland, Iceland and the Alps. It reaches about 1 foot tall, with one main root from which several other shoots grow, topped with pink, red or yellow flowers. Rhodiola is part of the Crassulacaea family. Of the more than 200 species for Rhodiola proper, Rhodiola rosea is the only one used for medicinal applications.

References

• NYU Langone Medical Center: Rhodiola Rosea
• University of California, Irvine: Herbal Extract Found to Increase Lifespan
• Hunting College of Health Sciences: All About Depression
• The Health Guide: Rosea Rhodiola Side Effects on Women and its Other Dangers
• U.S. National Library of Medicine: Acute Rhodiola Rosea Intake Can Improve Endurance, Exercise Performance