By Henry Emmons, MD

Rhodiola Benefits

Rhodiola is one of a class of herbs known as “adaptogens”. These are tonic herbs that aren’t considered to be medicinal—that is they aren’t used to relieve a specific symptom. Adaptogens can have a broader positive impact on health, supporting one or more of the body’s important systems like the immune system or metabolism. In the case of rhodiola, it is primarily supporting the stress system—i.e., the adrenals and the autonomic nervous system.

Rhodiola is one of my favorite herbs for this purpose. I find that it not only helps down-regulate the stress hormones, but it also gives a gentle boost to energy without being overstimulating.  

Anxiety, Depression, and Rhodiola

Traditionally, rhodiola has been used for energy and mental focus, but more recently it has been studied for its benefits with anxiety and depression.[1] A small study at UCLA showed benefit with generalized anxiety with minimal side effects.[2] It has been shown to improve serotonin and dopamine levels as well as countering the effects of cortisol.[3]

I often recommend it over the winter months (October through April) for anyone with a tendency toward seasonal affective disorder, as it also seems protective against winter depression. 

Rhodiola Dosage and Use

The typical dose range for rhodiola is between 200-250 mg twice daily. Consider lower doses for children (e.g. 100 mg twice daily). Look for a standardized extract containing at least 3% Rosavins. It may be taken with meals (e.g. breakfast and lunch). Avoid taking it right at bedtime. 

I think it is best to use rhodiola as part of a combination supplement that includes other herbal adaptogens, as they often work better together. 

Of course, it's important to talk with you doctor before adding any supplement.

Rhodiola rosea Side Effects & Interactions

Like other tonic herbs, rhodiola is considered safe, even for long-term use. It is not known to interact with other medications. I rarely see any side effects with rhodiola, but remember that it may be energizing so watch for any trouble sleeping or simply feeling overly revved up. If either of these happen, be sure to take it early in the day, and consider a lower dose. 

Rhodiola Supplements at Natural Mental Health

Stress Support is a blend of several herbal adaptogens with the calming amino acids L-theanine  and phosphatidylserine. It contains 200 mg of rhodiola in a daily dose (100 mg per capsule) standardized to 3% Rosavins. 

*Note: Some of the supplements discussed in this article can cause side effects, but many people tolerate them much better than prescription medications. They are generally considered safe, however, they should not be started without your doctor’s knowledge and supervision. If you are taking medication already, be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any of these items. If you are considering going off medication, remember never to stop your medication suddenly—always consult with your doctor about how to safely taper off any psychiatric medication. See terms.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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SOURCES

1. V. Darbinyan, et al., “Clinical Trial of Rhodiola rosea L. Extract SHR-5 in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Depression”, Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 61, no. 5 (2007): 343-348.
2. A. Bystritsky, et al., “A Pilot Study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax) for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14 no. 2 (2008): 175-180.
3. F. Khanum, et al., “Rhodiola rosea: A Versatile Adaptogen”, Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 4 (2005): 55-62.