RHODIOLA ROSEA SHEREE CYPHERS KAPLAN UNIVERSITY HW499

WHAT IS RHODIOLA ROSEA?  A perennial plant of Rhodiola genus in the Crassulaceae family  Genus Rhodiola has other species without pharmacological effect  R. rosea root has been the subject of research studies

OTHER NAMES FOR RHODIOLA ROSEA  GOLDEN ROOT  ROSEROOT  ARCTIC ROOT  AARON’S ROD

GROWS IN ….  ROCKY MOUNTAINS  ARCTIC  ALPS  ICELAND  NORTHERN RUSSIA

HISTORY TRADITIONALLY USED BY:  RUSSIANS  SCANDINAVIANS  SIBERIANS

RHODIOLA ROSEA IS AN ADAPTOGEN  Adaptogens help balance endocrine hormones and the immune system when the body is under stress.  Safely assist the body in maintaining balance and recovery from adverse emotions, weather and disease influences (Dharmanada, S. 2001).  Helps lower production of stress hormone cortisol.

WHAT IS RHODIOLA ROSEA USED FOR?  Anti-fatigue  Clinical trials show increased mental performance & ability to concentrate in healthy subjects  Milder and safer than chemical stimulants like caffeine

USES (cont’d)  Reduces burnout in patients with fatigue syndrome  Encouraging results exists for use of Rhodiola rosea in mild to moderate depression and generalized anxiety  Phytomedicine 2010 Jun; 17(7):

USES (cont’d)  Rhodiola Rosea and combinations of other herbs are used frequently in Chinese & Tibetan medicine  Active constituents include numerous flavonoids (such as quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol)  Flavonoids are antioxidant compounds found in plants  Antioxidants protect from oxidative damage by free radicals

PRECAUTIONS  Although Rhodiola Rosea is relatively safe without adverse effects…..  CAUTION: ALWAYS CONTACT A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL OR NATURAL PHYSICIAN BEFORE TAKING ANY SUPPLEMENT  FOR INFORMATION PURPOSE ONLY NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE OR TREAT

RESEARCH  Well known case studies were conducted by Drs. R. P. Brown, P.L. Gerbarg, and P. R. Muskin from Columbia University and reported in their books The Rhodiola Revolution and How to Use Herbs and Nutrients in Mental Health The Rhodiola RevolutionHow to Use Herbs and Nutrients in Mental HealthThe Rhodiola RevolutionHow to Use Herbs and Nutrients in Mental Health  Research studies show statistically significant improvement in mental performance, reduction of fatigue and stress reactions

DOSAGE  Look for Rhodiola Rosea extracts that contain at least 3% rosavins  The best way to enjoy the many benefits of Rhodiola rosea extract is to consume it moderately on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before a breakfast or lunch.  Do not take in the evening or before bed

DOSAGE (cont’d)  It is best to start rhodiola in smaller doses than is recommended, then work your way to the higher doses suggested on any specific rhodiola product’s label.  When purchasing seek professional guidance to avoid ineffective brands.  Obtain full information about quality control and content from manufacturer

SIDE EFFECTS  Most common Rhodiola rosea side effects include restlessness, irritability, and insomnia (same common side effects often observed in any mild stimulant).  To perceive these side effects, you likely need to consume rhodiola in higher than usual doses or combine it with another stimulant, such as coffee.

SIDE EFFECTS (cont’d)  If taken in high doses or with another stimulant, the most disturbing Rhodiola rosea side effect would be a rapid heart beat, or heart palpitations.

CONCLUSION  Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogen that decreases fatigue and increases mental performance, particularly the ability to concentrate, and safely helps the body to maintain balance against adverse emotions and physical stresses.

REFERENCES  Brown, R., Gerbarg, P. & Ramazanov, Z. (2002). A Phytomedicinal Overview Retrieved May 14, 2011  Dharmanada, S. (2001). Tibetan Herbal Medicine Retrieved May 16,  Olsson, E., von Scheele, B. & Panossian, A. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the standardized extract shr-5 of the roots of Rhodiola rosea in the treatment of subjects with stress- related fatigue. Planta Med Feb: 75(2): Retrieved May 12,  Panossian, A., Wikman, G., & Sarris, J. Rosenroot (Rhodiola rosea): traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology and clinical efficacy.Phytomedicine 2010 Jun; 17(7): Retrieved May 11,