The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Stress, Fatigue, Depression
Posted by Sunni (Seattle, WA) on 06/24/2007
★★★★★
I have suffered from mild to moderate depression my whole life. I've tried many things over the years ... Zoloft, therapy, hypnosis, yoga, seminars ... you name it. Nothing helped much. I had also tried natural supplements like SAM-e, 5-HTP, etc. They help some but not a lot. When I started Rhodiola on the second day I felt transformed! Not only did it lift my depression but it actually made me happy! I wanted to do things, live life! I had enthusiam and energy, which I've never really had my whole life. This wonderful little herb has made me feel the best I've ever felt in my life.
Stress, Fatigue, Depression
Posted by Raquel (Portland, USA) on 03/20/2007
★★★★★
Hi Everyone! I started taking Rhodies (Rhodiola) because I work nights and have to remain alert. What I didn't expect was the side effects of weight loss, relief of depression and anxiety, increase in mental sharpness, a tremendous amount of energy and increase in strength. It just lifted the "dark cloud" over my head. It really is a super herb! If u are thinking of trying it, just go for it! Regards,
Depression
Posted by Cécilia (Belgium) on 10/15/2024
Thank you, Art I dare not use Ashwaganda, it, s still mor effective than Rhodolia. A was so happy the two first day I used Rhodolia that I would like to know more about this plant. What are the activeingredients in this plant? If I knew them, I could take them in low quantity. What action have this plant on the brain? On wich part of the brain does it have an effect. Why did my brain stopped to accept it and provoked a panic attack? I already tried Gingko and felt worse with it. That's the reason I'm so attached to Rhodolia. In the beginning at least. Than you
Side Effects
Posted by Jean (Smelterville, Idaho) on 08/22/2015
I am 65, woman with Mitral valve and an adrenalin problem. I was told by an herbologist that rhodiola mixed with a couple other herbs would improve my libido. I have been taking a combo with about 9 different herbs with rhodiola of each 75%...and on the end of the first week...I woke up with rapid heartbeat, had to take athenolol to stop it...
I am wondering what I should supplement with rhodiola to prevent this in the future...how much each day? Thank you. Jean
Stamina
Posted by Daniel (Williams, Or) on 06/15/2015
★★★★★
I having been using Rhodiolia for a little over a month, I am 68 and generally in good health, I was having stamina problems hiking with my left calf cramping and the problem seems to be gone, I am taking small doses about ever other day and so far so good, I do feel that my overall stamina and energy is better.
Side Effects
Posted by Beeonthyme (Plattsmouth, Nebraska) on 11/27/2014
I was a very strong advocate for Rhodiola. I loved how it helped me with mental clarity. It helped me to focus on tasks that needed attention. It kept my mind from obsessing over a bad divorce. I loved how it helped me cope in high stress situations. I took a Swedish brand called Adapt 232. It had Eleutherococcus senticocus and Schisandra chiensis in the formula. It gave me energy, mentally, more so than physically.
I loved it.
I had run out as iherb.com had run out. I bought the Now brand of rhodiola...just straight rhodiola. It wasn't as good as the proprietary brand, adapt 232.
So...when the supplier got their shipment of adapt 232 in, they sent me an email alert to let me know they had replenished their stock. I was in fear of them and me running out again so I ordered three boxes.
When it arrived I took two immediately.
BIG MISTAKE...REALLY BIG MISTAKE.
I went to the emergency room that night. I woke up from a dead sleep at 4 a.m. my heart pounding and racing wildly. I felt as though my internal organs were separating...I felt a deep deep sense of DOOM. I was certain I was having a heart attack or something but it hurt like hell and I was having trouble breathing.
I was diagnosed with panic disorder...I think I was injected with tranquilizers... because I calmed down. I asked if they gave me something... two separate personnel said no...but I felt a change. I was relaxed. After many tests and drawn blood they shoved me out the door at 6 a.m. and sent me home with a script for lorazepan... which I filled for just in case. I've never taken one.
I researched side effects for rhodiola.. and panic attacks was one of them. I quit rhodiola...much asI loved it. And have not had any heart fluttering since. Im having difficulty with this mobile site continuing with my testimony/ review.
EC: Sorry about that. We'll have our programmer look into our mobile site asap.
Dosages
Posted by Megan (Fl) on 06/09/2014
Hello,
I recently ordered a bulk package of Rhodiola Rosea root powder, and discovered the package didn't contain dosage directions or a "scoop" of any sort. I was wondering, since you provide a standard dosage of 200-600mg, what exactly that would look like in terms of teaspoons? As in, how many milligrams of Rhodiola is in 1/4 tsp - 1/2 tsp?
I contacted the website but they couldn't provide any information, so I greatly appreciate any information you may have! We are using the powder for research and development of a product, so it is (obviously) crucial to know dosage equivalents!
Thank you for your time, Megan
Side Effects
Posted by Jo-ann (Ca) on 05/01/2014
I started taking Rhodiola Rosea off & on a few months ago. (Gaia Herbs brand) with one capsule before food (120 mg). When trying it at the recommended higher dose (240 mg), I became incredibly tired, as if I took a sleeping pill. I do have insomnia so I'm guessing that had something to do with it.
Have read to take this herb "one week on & one week off". Please advise. Thank you.
Side Effects
Posted by Rhodiola Fan (Uk) on 08/01/2015
It's funny how many people here are stating that RR has made them worse, and cited all sorts of side effects, yet none are shouting from the rooftops about all the good it can do you. How many of you have been brainwashed by the medical establishment? It interferes with pharmaceutical antidepressants does it? Maybe you shouldn't be taking the antidepressants!! They're what is poisoning you.
How many of these posts have been 'written' by people in the medical industry just for scare-mongering purposes, to shoehorn people in need of help towards their expensive and poisonous, addictive drugs?
I know RR affects people in different ways, but I have nothing but good things to say about it, as do millions of others. If you misuse or abuse it, yes it may have some minor side effects, and can increase anxiety or irritability in a SMALL PERCENTAGE of cases, but why are all of these people apparently posting on here? It does not give a balanced representation in any way.
My suggestion - don't be put off by the scaremongering and all that - try it for yourself. Buy a good brand (not one of the chinese brands as they are NOT the same) like Viridian and follow thesuggested dosage, building up slowly. It can work wonders.
Just my opinion obviously, if you experience any side effects then stop, but fewer people than you think experience any negative effects. They've just all clubbed together to post here!!!
Be happy :-)
Restless Leg Syndrome
Posted by Deni (Lake Forest, Ca) on 02/17/2014
★★★★★
I purchased Rhodiola Rosea for a fat belly. When I was having withdrawals from Norco I took it and it took away my restless legs and shakes. I took 3 a day before meals.
Stress
Posted by Diane (Palos Hills, Il) on 11/23/2013
★★★★★
I've experienced positive results from taking a supplement called Rhodiola force 300, by New Chapter. I don't have bipolar disorder but was taking it at an intensely stressful time. What I experienced was amazing. My mood was elevated, I had mental clarity and I was functioning optimally. How many of us can say that on a regular basis? It took the edge completely off, without making me feel wired or tired. It just calmed me the perfect amount. I didn't feel drugged or anything strange- just really well! When I purchased this product, I was told that it was potent. It was recommended by the health food store employee where I frequent. He personally takes the product and was the one to tell me that it was a stress adaptogen, which means that it helps the body deal better with stress. I definitely needed it! I would recommend it for high levels of stress, but cannot speak for anyone having bipolar disorder. I believe there is a less potent Rhodiola product available by New Chapter, also. I've also read that Holy Basil is another stress adaptogen, but haven't tried it.
General Feedback
Posted by Mary (Los Angeles, Ca) on 10/31/2013 51 posts
I am writing about the use of Rhodiola. I know how bad anxiety and panic attacks feel like I had them many years. It shocks me that so many have taken Rhodiola to feel better. I know how one wants to get better in a hurry. For me that makes me worried anything that makes you feel that good in such a short time seems troublesome to me. I don't like counting on something so much that I can't get over these panic attacks on my own.
I do understand a little help but will I have to take this the rest of my life? Has anyone gotten better just taking this for a short time?
General Feedback
Posted by Jenny (Boston, Ma) on 10/31/2013
★★★★★
Best way to test rhodiola is to take it in small doses and see if your brain chemistry likes it. Not doubt some brands are better than others. I didn't have great results when I tried it, but I only tried one brand. I have read on Earth Clinic that 5 days on and 2 days off for supplements each week is wise. I try to give my body a break from all supplements once in a while. Good luck.
Side Effects
Posted by Jessiejess (Atlanta, Ga) on 07/25/2013
Rhodiola Herbal supplement: This supplement - I purchased for my daughter I thought was supposed to help her focus- I started to take it. This supplement made me feel SUPER anxious, extrememly irritated, jittery and just did not do what I was told it would do. I would not recommend this to anybody. I purchased mine from GNC for $29.00 and I regret it. I wish I did my research first on this. I took it for a week before I realized that it was this herb that was making me feel out of sorts.
Where to Buy: UK
Posted by Lottie (Cornwall, St Austell, Uk) on 06/12/2013
I was told a couple of years ago the company who produces FSC Rhodiola Root, went bankrupt, but I figured this was because not enough people were talking about because they wanted to keep it a secret (it was that good). I found it on a website last night and immediately bought even though I'm unsure whether the tablets will be regulated? I'm so despurate for a good rhodiola root that makes me feel rumbustious. I am naturally suffer from anxiety attacks and mild depression because of this issue. I just want more from life and embrace it.
Please can you help me out with a regulated UK brand and let me know whether I should trust this website selling the FSC rhodiola root?
Where to Buy: UK
Posted by Chris (West Sussex, UK) on 12/23/2014
Viridian is a trusted UK brand. Go for the high potency 150 Rhodolia Rosea. I don't usually get on with herbs but this works and is amazing..... , hope it helps you
Stress. Depression
Posted by Tabo (Cambridge, Ma) on 04/15/2013
Rhodiola: for depression and stress relief: I've been taking 100mg a day 1/2hr before meals for about 3wks nor hoping to relieve nerve tension my nerves are bad. I'm 43 yrs old. I consider myself to be a healthy individual I have posterial tremors in (nerve shaking in hands and legs) as well as mild depression and stress. The only other only herbal supplements I take are calcium, vitamin D. The only changes I've noticed with taking rhodiola is my sleep pattern. It helps me wake up in the morning without feeling so tired. I don't have trouble sleeping. I fall asleep easily but hard for me to wake up in the morning without feeling if I haven't gotten enough sleep even though I have. That's the only noticeable change I've felt. I need something to calm my nereves I feel anxious at times and jittery. What would you recommend?
Stress. Depression
Posted by Steve (Las Vegas, Nv Nevada) on 04/15/2013
I would give Holy Basil, valerian root, and 5HTP a try. They have helped me with depression and somewhat with anxiety. For the anxiety you may want to try EFT (emotional freedom technique). Lots of youtube videos on using EFT for anxiety. EFT got me through some really bad anxiety and I felt a huge difference after just 10min of doing EFT.
Where to Buy: Australia
Posted by Nasreen (Cairns, Qld. Australia) on 03/19/2013
Rhodiola side effects and want to purchase in oz: I would like to know where in Australia I can get the siberian safe rhodiola. I also am worried of what it can do to other healthy parts of the brain.
Energy
Posted by Lisa (Thousand Oaks, Ca, Usa) on 12/17/2012
Hi Michael, It's awesome that you are getting such great results from your rhodiola! Where are you getting it from? Rhodiola is known to enhance both physical and mental endurance, it is beneficial for those living under stressful conditions(isn't that everyone these days?! ), is beneficial to the cardiovascular system and is a powerful immune strengthener. One very important aspect is, it is a safe and powerful antidepressant. So no wonder, you're having such great responses. Have you tried any other Chinese herbs? I like reishi and chaga mushroom to build the body since they are powerful adaptogens and also goji and schizandra which have unbelievable attributes as well. I love the way the Chinese herbs have helped me in so many ways and take them on a regular daily basis. My energy is steady and my health strong. Best to you! Lisa
Energy
Posted by Andrea C (Cardiff, Wales) on 12/18/2012
sorry it on this thread xxxx i was trying to ask can we have a de-tox symtom page xxxxxxx that will be of great help to a lot of people xxxxx i was trying to contact e/c to suggest it xxxxx different regimes bring thier own sytoms with them xxx it will hit some of us hader than other's xx but 'sharing' will help a lot of people xxxxx we won'r all have the same ones xxxxx 'flu' symtom's is common xxxx but feeling 'worse' than that will happen xxxx i am sure a lot of folk would like to see othe'rs experience, so they know thier not going mad or dying xxx love andrea cc xxxxx
Side Effects
Posted by Debra (Providence, Ri) on 08/14/2012
I have been taking 500 mg of Rhodiola by NOW and have begun to suffer from severe anxiety. The anxiety is so severe it borders on anxiety attacks. I exercise daily and eat well, but taking Rhodiola has sent me to counseling. At first I didn't know why I was feeling so out-of-control until it dawned on me...... it was the Rhodiola.
Side Effects
Posted by Gloria (Portland, Or Usa) on 08/14/2012
Yes, heightened anxiety is known as a possible side effect of Rhodiola. Most people will not experience this, but I have also felt anxiety from taking Rhodiola.
The first time I took it, however, for a number of months, I experienced only the positive effects of increased energy and well-being. So it seems to depend on other factors in the body (metabolism, perhaps?)
Side Effects
Posted by Lisa (Thousand Oaks, Ca, Usa) on 08/14/2012
Hi Debra, I'm sorry you had such a experience from rhodiola use. This is why I tell people they should be evaluated by a qualified person before embarking on Chinese herb use. It is one thing to use the adaptogens but otherwise, there are lots of things considered about each individual before then recommending the herbs appropriate to the person's body state. I take rhodiola but it was given to me by a Chinese herbalist and it is also in a formula I use. I was told it would be good for me but if I saw any anxiety, to stop immediately. I have not seen that happen. When you got the rhodiola, did someone recommend it to you or did you just decide it sounded good?
You might want to consider calling Dragon Herbs and getting a free phone consultation where they will evaluate you through lots of questions and you explaining your lifestyle, etc. If you read the testimonies from both Meg and Sue here on the Latest Post page, you will see their experiences from this course of action.
Wishing you well, Lisa
