ETYMOLOGY
Given the name “Rosea” because of the rose-like smell of its flowers.

Synonyms: Rhodiola sacra, Radix rhodiola.

BOTANICAL INFORMATION

Family: Crassulaceae

Description: A succulent plant that grows at high altitudes and reaches 5 to 35 cm in height with flat, lanceolate, and dentate leaves. Its flowers are yellow-red and emit a characteristic smell of rose, blooming May to June. The chemical composition of the plant, and therefore its potency, is subject to significant seasonal variation.

Habitat: Rhodiola is native to the mountains of northern Europe, northern Asia, North America, and occasionally the Alps and Pyrenees. It grows at high altitude (3300-5400 meters above sea level) in rocky and inaccessible mountainous areas. It has a preference for well-drained soil and ample sunlight.

Method of Harvest: During the autumn, at three to four years of age.

Parts Utilized: Root.

ACTIVE CONSTITUENTS: Salidrosides

MODE OF ACTION

Actions: A known adaptogen, Rhodiola is suggested to increase the capacity of learning and memory while alleviating stress. Assists in the control of body weight when combined with a balanced diet and exercise program.

Precautions: There are no known side effects at the recommended dosage. In very rare instances, slight increases in blood pressure have been reported. The use of Rhodiola rosea is not recommended in individuals with hypertension or fever.

COMMON INDICATIONS

As a medicinal herb: Used as tonic/adaptogen, mild stimulant in cases of fatigue, stress, and depression, and to aid in recovery from arduous physical activity. Can help to reduce excessive body weight by mobilizing stored fat.

Traditional uses: Used traditionally in the Nordic countries to increase physical endurance, immunity, and for the general improvement of the health and longevity of an individual.

PREPARATION AND USE

Internal Use: The daily suggested dose is in the range of 3-5.5 mg of the main active constituent, Salidroside, which is the equivalent to 500 to 700 mg of the bulk herb.

HISTORY AND LEGENDS

The use of Rhodiola has a rich history in Siberia, and legend has it that people who regularly drink Rhodiola tea will live for more than a century. The root, in addition to being used to improve physical performance, was given to couples before marriage to encourage the birth of healthy children. Rhodiola was traditionally considered a powerful stimulant and was subsequently incorporated into the formulations of various love potions. The ancient Chinese emperors, who used the root to treat a plethora of diseases and disorders, sent expeditions into eastern Siberia in search of wild Rhodiola. To improve their tolerance of high altitude, the people of Tibet incorporated Rhodiola into the food of themselves and their animals, while the inhabitants of Siberia used the root to increase their resistance to low temperature. In Bulgaria, the extract Rhodiola has long been used for the production of a very popular drink called "Nastojka". In ancient times, Rhodiola was commonly ingested as an alcoholic beverage, which was produced by using equal portions of fresh Rhodiola root in 40% alcohol and then allowing this combination to extract in the dark for several weeks. The first scientific studies on Rhodiola date back to the first half of the last century, when several scientists began to observe its effects on the local people who used it, but it was not until the early'60s that information on the benefits and properties of Rodiola have been made public to the rest of the world.

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