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Rhodiola Cures and Side Effects

Updated: 11/15/2009

Rhodiola is a powerful anti-aging and anti-stress formula that is very popular in Russia. It is finally gaining momentum in Europe and North America. In Russia, Rhodiola is commonly given to astronauts, soldiers, athletes and aging political leaders! It reportedly helps with fatigue and mental performance. Athletes take it to improve endurance & performance as it aids in the restoration of strength with increased physical loads. We know people taking Rhodiola who are severely sleep-deprived due to odd working hours or stress. Rather than walking zombies, they are alert and well functioning. The difference is quite amazing apparently.

Rhodiola is typically taken by long distance drivers, flight personnel, traffic controllers and the elderly for increased attention.

Soviet studies have shown that Rhodiola rosea, when combined with physical exercise, can be a powerful tool in weight reduction as it activates of fat-tissue lipase, resulting in the breakdown of stored fat.

A Chinese animal study has shown that Rhodiola slowed heart rate and lowered blood pressure. Russian and Korean animal studies have shown that rhodiola protects the liver and can help it recover from exposure to certain poisons.

Rhodiola is known to be a powerful antioxidant and may be used in treating cancer. Studies have shown that rhodiola reduced the cell mutations associated with cancer as well as help the body's ability to repair DNA mutations.

WARNINGS:  Rhodiola can cause anxiety and the "jitters".  Be cautious about buying a brand that also contains caffeine.

DOSAGE:
The typical amounts of Rhodiola are 200 - 600 mg per day of a Rhodiola rosea extract standardized to contain 2-3% rosavins and 0.8-1% salidroside. Rhodiola is taken with water before meals or at meals.

You should buy only Rhodiola of Russian origin with key active components of Rosavin, Rosarin and Rosin. Be careful -- in the USA, Rhodiola rosea formulas sold as "Tibetan" Rhodiola or Chinese Rhodiola contain no active components. These formulas lack the key ingredient Rosavins while they are high in Salidroside. Supposedly, only Rhodiola from West and North Siberia contains the critical components of Rosavin, Rosarin and Salidroside.

Interestingly, it has been noted that Rhodiola has a stimulating effect at lower amounts and a sedating effect at higher amounts. A high dose of Rhodiola extract is considered to be daily intakes of 1,500 - 2,000 mg and above.

Do you take this herb? If so, please write to us and let us know what you think.

DISCLAIMER
Our readers offer information and opinions on Earth Clinic, not as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

ANXIETY

1 YEA

[YEA]  05/13/2008: Barbara from Minneapolis, MN writes: "Works within an hour. I have outrageous anxiety. Glad I found this web site for an herbal remedy."

07/02/2008: Clara from West Palm Beach, Florida replies: "Barbara: What brand of Rhodiola do you use and dose? Thank you."

BREAST PAIN

1 YEA

[YEA]  03/14/2009: Susan Cole from Beverly, Ma. writes: "I have cysts in my breasts and was having xrays at hospital done and they made my left side breast cyst burst . The pain was very bad and I went looking for natural cures and found Rhodiola rosea and one capsules stopped the pain . I took it every day from that time on to now. I use only natural cures now and eat natural foods only"

DOSAGES

1 YEA

[YEA]  02/19/2008: Coach from USA, USA writes: "Rhodiola at low doses will give a stimulatory effect and at higher doses of the higher quality 5% Rosavins Rhodiola will give you a calming effect."

ENERGY

1 YEA

[YEA]  05/22/2008: Chris Bates from Derby, England writes: "I'm on rhodiola rosea rosavin. very important, been on this for 3 years now. it's a miracle. I'm 46, work 12 hour days plus sat morning. Up at 430am, back home 700pm every night, working in hot laundry. adaption rate is every day. I just get stronger every day, stress easy to cope with, I could go on all day. I'm so happy. I'm paid the minmum wage, but that's not important. I know at the end ov the day that I will be stronger the next day. more people need to know about this supplement."

HASHIMOTO'S THYROIDITIS

1 YEA

[YEA]  03/16/2009: Paola from Lugano, Ticino/Switzerland writes: "Rhodiola for Hashimoto Disease: Thyroid:

I have been taking Russian-Rhodiola for a week now, 300g in the morning. I'll see my Doctor tomorrow, as I am also under pills for my thyroid, and I would like to replace thyroid chemical pills (Levothyroxine sodium - thyroid hormones) with rhodiola's cure, let's see what he's going to tell me. I feel definitely better, from the first day. I used to be chronically tired, now not anymore."

MULTIPLE CURES

2 YEA

[YEA]  08/03/2009: Sixfurlongs from Corona, Ca. writes: "rhodiola with 3% of rosavin two to four per day, results clear mind, reduces anxieties, balanced attitude better sex drive, increases stamina and fights the blues. I take it with 50mg. of zoloft no interaction and helps the side effect of sex. I find it the better the quality the better the results."

[YEA]  05/10/2009: Patricia from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada writes: "I've been taking Rhodiola for 5 weeks and have increased energy and have lost about 15 pounds that I have been struggling with for the last 5 years. I have had breast cysts that have disappeared and my memory has definitely improved. 6 weeks ago I attempted to climb the 7 flights of stairs to my condo when the elevator was out. I had to stop and rest at each floor. Today I take the stairs instead of the elevator without stopping at all.

When I started taking Rhodiola, my daughter had told me about it but I didn't know much about the herb only that it would give me an energy boost that I really needed. The only negative factor that I have experienced is insomnia, so now I make sure that I don't take the herb after about 3pm. I take 2 - 250 mg per day. One in the morning as soon as I get up with 10 oz of warm distilled water and the juice of 1/2 freshly squeezed lemon, and one around 3pm at my work breaktime with lots of water."

EC: Great feedback, thanks Patricia. Would you please let us know which brand you are taking? Rhodiola can be hit or miss depending on the brand. Thanks!

05/11/2009: Janice from Coloma, Mi replies: "Thought I'd throw in my two cents worth. I have had a lot of stress in my life the past two months. I finally reached the point that I was afraid I was going to have to start on my anti-depressant. Then I remembered I had a new bottle of Rhodiola Rosea Extract. I thought I would give that a try first. What a pleasant surprise. It really turned me around. I felt good all day and had plenty of energy. I would highly recommend it. Since you asked about brands, you can print it if you want. I used Planetary Herbals. I bought it at the health food store."

EC: Thanks!

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL ENERGY, ALLERGIES, IMMUNE SYSTEM

1 YEA

[YEA]  08/28/2006: Tami from Tuscon, AZ writes: "Rhodiola is a wonder herb. It has increased my energy and mental abilities, cured seasonal allergy attacks, and increased my immune system so I don't get sick nearly as often as I used to."

RHODIOLA ELIXIR RECIPE

1 QUESTION

[QUESTION]  03/07/2009: Bev from Long Beach, CA/USA writes: "Hi All; I love this website. I am interested in making the Rhodiola Elixir as seen on Oprah/Dr. Oz using 80 proof vodka. Has anyone made this? I can't find the recipe anywhere. And where would I get the pure Rhodiola Root to use in this elixir? Thanks for all your help. Bev"

EC: Don't know where you'd find Rhodiola chips, but we found a simple recipe on Oprah's website for you... http://www.oprah.com/slideshow/health/wellnessandprevention/20081111_expert_droz_restoration/10

"Hunted in Siberia and extracted from chips, Rhodiola rosea anecdotally promotes energy, tamina and sexual function and libido. What do you do with it? Try stuffing some Rhodiola chips into a pint container and fill it with vodka. Then try a tablespoon a night. If the mixture is beet-red, it will have 200 to 600 mg of Rhodiola in it."

Here's another recipe on Yahoo Answers http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071101221648AAqepeF

"Dr. Mehmet Oz was on The Oprah Winfrey Show (November 1, 2007) and he had prepared the herb rhodiola rosea and vodka as an adaptogenic tonic for stress. "This [drink] stimulates dopamine and serotonin," Dr. Oz says. "It has an influence on sexuality. It also helps immune function."

In ADAPTOGENS (chapter on Adaptogens as Food), we discuss how this medicinal alcoholic tonic is prepared in present-day Ukraine. It is called nastojka and is prepared by mixing 80 proof vodka with an equal weight of fresh rhodiola and allowing the mixture to stand for a few weeks. Only a few teaspoonfuls should be consumed daily.

Rhodiola rosea can also be taken in tablets and is best consumed on an empty stomach before breakfast.

Rhodiola has broad-reaching benefits -- it helps to balance blood sugar levels, protect the heart and reduce stress. It is a cooling adaptogen and unlikely to cause overstimulation.

Source(s): ADAPTOGENS: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief (Maimes & Winston)

How good are the data on Rhodiola? Not solid enough to recommend to everyone, but it probably won't hurt. We know a little alcohol every night—even if it's not red wine—keeps your cardiovascular system younger.

03/08/2009: Bev from Long Beach, CA/USA replies: "I FINALLY found a site that sells Rhodiola Root. S&H is pricey.
http://www.life-extension-drugs.com/rhodiolaroot.html "

03/09/2009: T from Maryland, USA replies: "Those Life Extension prices are insane. Try mountainroseherbs.com. An entire pound of rhodiola root is just $9.00 there as opposed to a whopping $119 at LE."

04/10/2009: Bev from Long Beach, CA/USA replies: "T from Maryland - I found mountainroseherbs site and ordered 2# of Rhodiola Rosea to make an elixir. Unfortunately, I didn't realize their Rhodiola comes from China and not Russia. I will have to box it up and send it back. Still looking for a reasonable cost site and checking with my local Vitamin City that sells organic produce, fruit, etc. Will comment more if I find it reasonably priced."

RHODIOLA FEEDBACK

1 BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS
1 WORKED TEMPORARILY

02/07/2009: Diana from London, England writes: "hi, I have read all your comments on Rhodiola - in England, we have brands like Solgar and Viridien who sell the Standardised Rhodiola Root Extract (1% salidrozid, 40% polyphenols) 250mg, Rhodiola Root Powder 100mg - I am hoping this is Siberian but have no way of knowing. Any advice? I have been using for 4 days but only expect to see a difference after 10 days according to Viridien. I have to say that I have loads of energy in the last couple of days- I have 2 small children and a big house to keep tidy. I may try taking the herb at night after 10 days if i dont see a marked difference (improvement) in my sleep. Thank you all for sharing your info. Diana"

[BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS]  02/05/2009: J Phil Murray from Longmont, Colorado writes: "Rhodioloa has been very helpful to me but also has some problems--

First, I have chronic adrenal exhaustion and also hypoglycemia. Rhodiola helps me with both problems. I am also anxiety prone and Rhodioloa usually helps that but sometimes makes it a little worse (although I have a pretty good recovery from anxiety using self-help techniques).

I have recently been taking a higher dose which does not work as well for me. It increases my emotional sensitivity, gives me slight headaches and also makes me slightly irritable.

What I have been doing in the last few days is to take an aspirin with the second pill (I take one pill an hour before breakfast and the second pill between 11:00am and 11:30am an hour before lunch, so I'll take an aspirin at lunch to offset the headache).

At lower doses, it doesn't have these side effects for me so I will try that again soon.

Also I really prefer Jiagulan which has the same benefits but is less overstimulating. This is not medical advice however and I encourage anyone using any herbs to carefully research all side effects and contraindications before trying anything. You have some people who are very close-minded about herbs, I don't agree with those folks, but you also have people who are blindly positive about herbs and will take anything without thinking or on the smallest snippet of information. These folks are irresponsible. Herbs can help but can also be dangerous. Do your homework THOROUGHLY before taking."

[WORKED TEMPORARILY]  10/23/2008: Ruth-Ann from Bellmawr, NJ writes: "Greetings! First, I so thank you for the wonderful gift of this site. It has been of immense help to me during various times. I wanted to write in to tell of my experience with Rhodiola Rosea. I absolutely love this herb. I get mine from Mountain Rose Herbs (great place) and it is usually about 300mg of non standardized powdered herb. I have tried the new chapter organics one and didn't feel any different. Anyway, when I take the mountain rose herb one, I really feel a great noticable difference....calmer, more alert, but at PEACE. My only concern is that this effect does not last for me. I will have this for about a week and a half and then no further effect is noticed until I stop taking it for a month and start again. Anyone else experience this? I feel it is a wonderful tool to use."

11/08/2009: Brygivrob from Escondido, Ca replies: "it is written above that chinese source rhodiola does not work"

SIDE EFFECTS

16 SIDE EFFECTS

[SIDE EFFECTS]  10/05/2009: Bee from USA writes: "I tried Rhodiola for the first time, and really hoped it would lighten my mood. I am also currently tapering off Paxil, down to 10 mg from 20 mg. The withdrawal is physically and mentally a struggle, and unfortunately the Rhodiola seemed to greatly worsen my anxiety. I felt like I could not sit still and was overly sensitive, emotional and distressed. My abdominal muscles were so tight I felt I could not take deep breaths. I can only attribute this change to Rhodiola, as I have been at this half dose for about a month and things were getting better. I am trying magnesium and tyrosine now. Also, before tapering I started on 5-htp 100mg and that was helping. I still hope to find some combo that allows me to get rid of the constant and emotionally draining anxiety, as well as the persistent down mood as it's taking over my life. But I don't want to be stuck forever on prescription medicines, as I worry about long-term effects."

10/05/2009: Rob from Manhattan, New York replies: "Hi Bee... there might be some helpful advice here...(no need for me to repeat it)
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART00696/depression-treatment"

[SIDE EFFECTS]  07/09/2009: Ruser from New York, NY writes: "manic episode on rhodiola... Hi, i am a psychologist reporting that a client of mine who worked her way up to 600 mg of Rhodiola wound up feeling agitated, "out of her mine" chopping at ther hair, and ultimately got arrested in a department store for shoplifing. she describes confusion at the time and persevaritive thoughts. I have consulted with some psychiatrist friends of mine who indicate the drug might potentiate a manic or hypomanic episode. does anyyone else have any info to report on this matter? Thanks."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  10/01/2009: Sisterlouise from Portland, Oregon replies: "I did have trouble with anxiety when taking rhodiola. I only tried it a few days. The energy level was great, felt very positive throughout the day (took in a.m. as recommended by New Chapter, but in the evening, I was miserable, anxious, even my bp went up a bit. Had to drop it. It is GREAT for my husband, but, alas, not for me."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  10/02/2009: Rob from Manhattan, New York replies: "yes, same for me... I also experimented with the New Chapter brand at 300mg and found it was too strong. I was able to take half a capsule. There are other brands that are less potent. You may also want to cycle it at three days on, 2 days off and taking a week off every couple weeks. Taking time off is a good idea for many supplements."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  04/17/2009: Diana from Arlington, VA writes: "I have been taking Nutrilite's Rhodiola 110 for about a month now (take twice a day) and I found that after two weeks of taking it, my period stopped. I thought I might have been pregnant after being 2 weeks late and took 5 pregnancy tests - all negative. So, I am now almost 6 weeks late on my period and not pregnant, so I would have to say after reading others' feedback, that my missed periods and subtle cramping is due to taking this pill.

Although it gave me great energy, it has altered my cycle and put me through some stressful weeks."

06/06/2009: Maxine from Rochester, NY replies: "I've been trying 2 full squirts of this herb in tincture form (small bottle with dropper) daily in the mornings, sometimes with an extra dose in the afternoon, for a couple of weeks now. As a person with chronic fatigue, I have see a noticeable difference in my mental clarity and ability to get through the day, and with way less anxiety than before. I wake up feeling better, am still not 100% but am more productive overall, and am happy with the increased energy and functioning. My period this month, however, was BARELY present at all--a trade off I am more than willing to accept! :-)

The brand I use is Herb Pharm purchased on sale at local health food store for $8.99. It tastes terrible in a small glass of water as suggested, so I take mine with juice instead. I prefer tinctures because they're a good alternative to swallowing pills, and has a much longer shelf life.

Good luck all!"

[SIDE EFFECTS]  11/14/2008: Mary from London, UK writes: "I took Rhodiola Rosea- Each one-a-day capsule contained 250mg standardised Rhodiola Rosea root extract (1% each rosavins, salidrozid and polyphenols) and also 130mg Raw Rhodolia Root powder.
I bought these after internet research from a reputable vitamin company, mainly for an energy lift and adrenal support following a period of chronic stress. I didn't expect to experience any results for a week at least but have stopped taking this after only 3 days because of a marked change in mood - feeling depressed, irritable and very tired. Foggy, negative thinking. Eye irriation and head ache. I was not previously depressed. I am a skeptical person and wary of attributing these effects to R.Rosea after such a very short period of time, but I have no other explanation than to consider this a negative reaction to the herb. Disappointed and concerned, this was not at all what I expected."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  11/12/2008: Joy from Toronto, Ontario writes: "I took Rhodiola for two days and the pain in my joints was terrible. I stopped taking it. I started again 3 weeks later and had the same effect. It also worsens my fibromyalgia. I have taken Rhodiola on 5 occasions. I like how it helps increase my clarity of thought and focus, nevertheless I must always discontinue use because of the pain."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  10/04/2008: Louise from NSW, Australia writes: "I started using Rhodila Rosea 500mg after reading how it increases energy. I started taking 1 capsule 1/2 hr before breakfast and it made me VERY tired. I then tried 250mg (1/2 capsule)...same effects...so I diluted 1 500mg capsule in 250 ml water and took 50ml equalling
100mg and I still get tired (not as much) but very moody. My sister gets the same effects as I do."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  07/14/2008: David from Portland, Oregon writes: "For about six months I've been taking Rhodiola (Rosavin Plus standarized 3% Siberian Rhodiola rosea, RosaFactor 300 mg.) for depression and fatigue. For some weeks now I have been suffering headaches, eye irritation, and general tiredness. I have also had some heart arrhythmia. My doctor can find no other cause of these symptoms and recommends that I stop taking this herb and see if there is improvement. I will report what happens and would like to hear from others who may have had negative side-effects to Rhodiola. DJW"

[SIDE EFFECTS]  05/25/2008: Sally from Birmingham, England writes: "i've been using the Rhodiola for a few days, but only one a day. I read the post about someone taking two close together and feeling restless and jittery, and i've been feeling a bit like that. Does that mean i shouldn't take it at all?

Also, my husband has tendonitis in shoulder, any natural remedies. He is taking a capsule of msm; hydrocloride glucosamide; and bought a some turmeric but only used that once or twice. Someone mentioned Black strap molasses for arthritis, would that work? i have some in cupboard."

EC: Possible pages of interest:
http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/bursitis.html
http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/arthritis.html

05/26/2008: Joyce from Joelton, Tn replies: "Yes, there is something else that will help your husband's shoulder bursitis. If you know what poke sallet (pokeweed) is, they are just now beginning to blossom and you'll have to wait until they ripen this fall to gather them to take. Contrary to popular belief, they are not poisonous. I have been taking them for 30+ years and I'm still here to answer your question. If you want to know how to take them, I started taking 3 or 4 berries 4 times a day and kept increasing them until I was taking about 20 to 25 berries 4 times a day. Several years after starting them, I read that if you extracted them in alcohol or vinegar, it stayed good for several years but dehydrating them, they were only good for 6 months or so. If you care to get into this, there are many books (or on line information) you can find. A general rule of thumb for beginners is that when using fresh herbs - l part herb to l part diluent used to extract: when using dry herbs use 2 parts diluent to l part dries herb. If you want to research poke berries - google pokeweed instead of poke sallet."

06/02/2009: Sammi from Flowery Branch, Ga replies: "Other Southerners know it as poke salad. LOL."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  01/31/2008: Rae from Hackensack, NJ writes: "I have been taking about 50mg 5 htp with 900mg St. Johns Wort daily to treat my depression with good results. Then I read about Rhodiola and I started taking a 500mg capsule daily. But after 1-2 day I noticed an itchy rash on my face and legs. I'm not sure if it's the Rhodiola or a combination of all or two of the herbs. I have stopped the Rhodiola for now but will begin again at a lower dose once the rash has cleared. I haven't found much about side effects with the Rhodiola but wondered if anyone had a similar experience."

02/06/2008: Rae from Hackensack, NJ replies: "I sent feedback about a week ago about a rash as a possible side effect from Rhodiola (500mg for depression) but I was also taking St John's Wort (900mg). I did more research and found some people have had an itchy rash in response to St. John's Wort! I tried the St. John's again and the same thing happened. Now I'm on the Rhodiola and 5 htp (50mg)and so far so good."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  10/23/2007: Mary from bayonne, nj writes: "I tried rhodiola after reading about all the benefits. What I experiences was a menstrual cycle that was near hemorraging. I immediately quit using it and my cycle returned to normal. There is very little, if any, hard science out there on this product and a whole lot of buzz. I would be careful."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  11/10/2008: Nas from Silver Spring, MD replies: "I have to agree with this, I felt like stuff was pouring out of my body. I think women should be careful with this stuff. I had only been taking it for like two weeks when my cycle started. I was taking Gaia Herbs Rhodiola. Gave a presentation at work and literally had to rush to the bathroom afterward."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  04/05/2007: Clara from New York City, USA writes: "I recently started taking rhodiola and vitamin E in the mornings and afternoons, and I've noticed a huge difference in my energy levels. My skin is more radiant, and I have a lot more energy than I used to. However, a word of caution -- two rhodiola capsules per day might be too much for some people. I noticed that after the afternoon dose I was feeling a little nervous, jittery, and restless, so now I take only one rhodiola capsule in the morning, and I take the vitamin E in the morning and afternoon, and it seems to work better for me. I'd highly recommend this remedy, but be careful with rhodiola if you're at all prone to nervousness and/or panic attacks."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  03/05/2009: Marina from NY, NY replies: "You did not specify the amount of each capsule. i just started taking 500mgs, 3%r osavins and 1% salidrosides, and i am feeling a bit jittery. this is only day 2 for me on this."

[SIDE EFFECTS]  02/19/2007: Artemis from Bismarck, ND writes: "I started Rhodiola about a week ago for the "fountain of youth" benefit. When I added the Vitamine E, I experienced severe, nearly arthritic pain in joints and muscles. I have not experienced the improved sleep pattern, either. I plan to stop the herb a few days then restart on lower dosage."

03/05/2009: Marina from NY, NY replies: "again, you did not specify the amount. how are we supposed to know what you are talking about?"

SKIN

2 YEA
1 SIDE EFFECT
1 QUESTION

[YEA]  05/13/2008: Anonymous from Simi Valley, California writes: "Rhodiola Feedback: I take 8 grams a day at night before i go to sleep for skin lightening effects. I started on a high dosage a month ago and never had any side effects. I'm 18, have a history of acute asthma, mild depression, tiredness, and get migraines. When I take it without food, which i usually do, it makes my heart race a little and it is hard to focus. I sleep fine, and wake up earlier. I wouldn't take it in the morning or before doing anything exciting or mentally demanding. My skin feels amazingly soft, but i haven't noticed any lightening."

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