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.
Rhodiola Feedback
Posted by Chela (Grants Pass, Oregon) on 02/21/2011
I TAKE 100MG FROM NEW CHAPTER AND FEEL MORE CALM, LESS HUNGRY AND MORE ENERGIZED. I RECOMMEND TO START WITH LOW DOSES
Rhodiola Feedback
Posted by Michele (Newburyport, Ma) on 12/23/2010
The best brand of Rhodiola rosea I have been able to find with 4% rosavin & 2% salidrosides is by a company called Kare-N-Herbs and the product is Energy Kare. I found out about it when I was shopping at my local Vitamin Shoppe.
Anxiety
Posted by Denyse (Orillia, Ontario Canada) on 12/19/2010
★★★★★
I began taking rhodiola 2 weeks ago, I am a 49yr old women I think I was losing my mind I was unable to sleep or should I say I was unable to stay asleep I was always so tired every morning and all day long, So I went online looking for somrthing to help but I wanted to keep it natural, I am a recovering addict I have not used for 3 and a half yrs so I do stay away from anything that is not natural.
Anyways wow at 1st I shrugged it off but now I kno this stuff really works and works well, I would say that u should only take this in the morning as it will keep u awake I take 500mils every morning and I find this to be perfect. This is the 1st time I have shared my info with anyone I was excited to share with others in the hopes others will feel as good as I Peace And Blessings.
Side Effects
Posted by Robert Bernard (Moscow, Russia) on 12/03/2010
RHODIOLA ROSEA (Golden root)
This is a perennial plant with red, pink, or yellowish flowers. It is no biological relation of the "common" rose, but due to its similar fragrance it has been used as a substitute for Attar of Roses. One of the greatest things Rhodiola does is enhance mental and physical performance. It has been widely used by Russian athletes to increase energy. Rhodiola is cardio-protective, normalizing the heart-rate immediately after intense exercise. It improves nervous system and mental functions such as memory by increasing blood-supply to the muscles and brain, and also increases protein synthesis. Rhodiola rosea has extraordinary pharmacological properties as an anti-mutagen and anti-depressive agent. In this respect Rhodiola rosea is much more powerful than other adaptogens.
Side Effects
Posted by Karen (Wayne, Patr) on 10/23/2010
I took 100 mg Rhodiola (containing 3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides) by Pure Encapsulations and it made me wired. I read on your post that you can take 1500 mg for a calmer effect. Are there any studies to show if that is safe or do you know any information about that? I would like to try.
Side Effects
Posted by M (Miami, Fl Usa) on 10/19/2010
Hello,
I have just started taking Rhodiola (250 mg)two days ago. I started taking it based on the findings that it increases energy and may promote weight loss. It has only been two days now, but I notice that I am feeling very sluggish and tire earlier than usual. I also started taking Grapeseed (380 mg) for pre-hypertension two days ago as well. Does anyone have any idea if either of these tend to cause lethargy and sluggish behavior as a side effect?
I will stop taking one at a time to see which one is causing this. If anyone has any feedback regarding similar effects it would be appreciated.
General Feedback
Posted by Robin (Rural, Va) on 10/18/2010
I have a great source for this, which I would be happy to share. You can email me at home 4 us 2004 @ yahoo.com (remove spaces)
General Feedback
Posted by Carol (Matthews, Nc) on 10/17/2010
I read the article on warnings about purchasing "Tibetan" Rhodiola or Chinese Rhodiola. Do you know where the Russian origin or West or North Siberia Rhodiola is sold? Thank you.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Robert (Sedona, Az) on 10/09/2010
★★★★★
I've been taking this for only a week and have noticed increased energy, alertness, and better sleep patterns. I take 500mg standardized in the a.m. first thing on an empty stomach.
Brand Recommendations
Posted by Matt (Ireland) on 09/13/2010
Hello I just began taking a combo of rhodiola and 5-htp for anxiety and depression. But I recently purchased a more potent rhodiola root by yarrow 500 mm online. And it said on the bottle not to be taken for anxiety so I'm confused as to what I should do?
Breast Pain
Posted by Sarah (Bloomfield Twp., Michigan/ Usa) on 08/04/2010
I have chronic pain and would need to know the dosage, frequency and the brand. Thank you, Sarah
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Posted by Sarah (Bloomfield Twp., Michigan/usa) on 08/04/2010
Hello Paola,
What did your Dr. Tell you about your Thyroid medication vs your Rhodiola at 300mg, once per day? I am suffering from chronic fatigue and chronic pain and have tried Thyroid medication with questionable results. Thank you, Sarah
Broad Benefits
Posted by Robin (Zuni, Va) on 07/09/2010
You mention "Siberian" Rhodiola. I have history of clinical depression and have been taking this with good results. I have done a lot of research, and concluded that it has to be "Siberian". Problem is most Rhodiola does not say "Siberian" and it is extremely difficult to find a good one. I have been unable to get a product that I was very satisfied with, and currently take a product that I find is only mediocre. I know that posting a product name is a no no. But I would really like to know what product your mother in law is taking.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Kim52 (College Station, Tx) on 07/08/2010
★★★★★
My mother inlaw was very very sick... No energy, acting very disoriented. She was always such a active and I mean ACTIVE person. Then she got the flu and from there everything went down hill. The doctors had her on so much antibiotics her system had to be rebuilt with a probiotic treatment. This did not help and her family really thought she was a hypocondriac. To make a long story short, after one year of nothing helping and her getting weaker and weaker.... She went to see a German doctor in Dallas. He put some "machines" on her (that was her words, she was very ill)... And he prescribed her with Rhodiola (Siberian). OH MY GOSH... What a complete turn around. This woman is 74 and energetic and very beautiful for her age.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Lisa (Las Vegas, NV) on 06/20/2010
★★★★★
Love this. Started taking Rhodiola a week ago due to fatigue and menopause issues. Haven't felt this good in a long time. Major improvement in overall energy, mental clarity and depression.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Martha (Greenville, Sc) on 05/01/2010
The best brand of this product is New Chapter. Buy it on vitacost.com -- cheaper than anywhere. Read what people say about the product.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Constant (Washington , Dc) on 04/28/2010
Does anyone have a suggestion on a good place to purchase this or another brand?
Side Effects
Posted by Caroline (Newbridge, Ireland) on 04/28/2010
★★★☆☆BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS
I started taking Rhodiola Rosea standardised extract 250mg 1%salidrosides four months ago. 2 capsules in the am daily for mild depression. I have felt the benefits moods wise but have been driven crazy with itchy skin on my back and stomach accompanied by a red rash. I stopped taking Rhodiola (after exhausting all manner of skin lotions) three days ago and have noticed an easing in the itchiness. I feel in no doubt that Rhodiola was the cause. Hope this helps.
Side Effects
Posted by Louise (Orlando, Fl) on 04/14/2010
I am having this same reaction and am so disappointed because I feel like other than that it might really help me. Wondering if this side effect will subside? I started with Nature's Way 250mg capsules 1%salidroside and 3%rosavins for a few days and then switched to New Chapter 100mg capsules 1% and 6%.
Can anyone help with this? Am I just using too high a dosage or the wrong brand? Any advice appreciated.
Stress
Posted by Diane (Alkmaar, Noord Holland, The Netherlands) on 04/11/2010
★★★★★
I have been taking Rhodiola rosea for four months, starting at 100mg per day for a few days, then 2oomg for a few weeks, ultimately increasing over the last four months to 1000mg currently, and I have had only positive effects from taking this.
Due to extreme circumstances I found myself, a very sensative and professionally artistic person, before taking the Rhodiola rosea, in a "burn-out" situation, highly stressed, and completely exhausted. This condition lasted 4 years. And doctor's originally wanted to treat me with anti-depressant drugs which I declined, so they prescriped temazapam, and oxzapam, at 10mg, 3 times a day.
I was on those drugs for 2 1/2 years, and felt weak, and had to ultimately take two of the sleeping pills at night, and still found myself in a state of only sleeping 2 1/2 to 6 hours per night. And my condition not improving.
I decided to stop those medicines and take a combination of Bach Flower Remedies, Valarien root at night for sleep, and the Rhodiola rosea (without caffine),which I have been doing for the last 4 months, and I am returning to a more natural way of life without any negative side-effects at all.
Feelings of stress are almost completely gone, sleep has improved to 10 - 12 hours a night (which I never could sleep so long my whole life), I have been able to gain weight with my renewed, proper natural appetite, and I feel much calmer and more centered.
Long Distance Driving
Posted by Byoung (Downey, Ca) on 04/09/2010
★★★★★
Rhodiola has been touted as helping focus during intense exercise. I'm not one of those people. Instead, my bottle of rhodiola lives in my car for my long drives (usu. about 7 hours). After about 5 hours of driving, I'm not as alert and take a tablet. I've found that within a minute or two (not long) after taking it, I feel fresh and alert - not at all jittery or buzzed. The one I use contains rhodiola rosea (root), vit C, green tea extract (leaves), spinach (leaves), and acerola concentrate blend (fruit).
Side Effects
Posted by Anonymous (Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Usa) on 04/07/2010
Mix 1 tablespoon each Chamomile, Catnip, and Basil in hot water, steep 10 minutes or so. While it's steeping eat a cup of plain yogurt, not lowfat or anything. Then drink the tea, strain out the leaves if you like. This makes the abdominals quite relaxed and peaceful. Also try Horse Chestnut with yogurt.
Side Effects
Posted by Sisterlouise (Portland, Or) on 12/12/2009
Followup: My husband who was feeling really good on 100 mg of Rhodiola a day began to feel it was not as effective with energy and focus as it had been. Rather than increasing the dose as the manufacturer had suggested, he begin taking it just every other day, which seemed okay. He's begun to notice, though, that on the days he takes it, he has a bit of pain in one of his elbows. He has some sensitivity to some foods that causes joint trouble occasionally and this may be falling into that same category.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Pigaman (Middleboro, Ma. Usa) on 12/06/2009
★★★★★
I have been taking rhodiola for about 2.5 months. I felt the effects right from the start. I am a 62 year old male and in very good health. I took the rhodiola for more energy and faster recovery from sports workouts. I am seeing almost all of the reported benefits. I take one 500 mg capsule before breakfast. It is russian rhodiola extract 5% rosavins. As a bonus, I have lost 10-12 lbs which I have been trying to lose for a few years now. So far so good.
Side Effects
Posted by Char (Fayetteville, Nc) on 12/05/2009
I have been taking New Chapter Rhodiola for about a month now at 300mg in the am per day. I also alternated with Now 500 mg per day.
New Chapter seemed to work instantly, I felt less stressed and just happier in general, however I missed my period in October entirely and like Diana I thought I was pregnant. I had strange cramping and have been to the two different doctors trying to find answers to by abnormal symptoms, now (thanks to this site and the people who write on it) I can almost guarantee its from supplementing rhodiola. I stopped dosing yesterday and will not be taking it anymore.
In closing I would like to comment that Rholdiola did make me happier, less stressed and excited for my day, however it put my body out of its natural cycle with unusual cramping and bloating. Due to this I will not take Rhodiola.
Rhodiola Usage Tips
Posted by Phyllis (Scottsdale, Az) on 12/03/2009
★★★★★
I've just looked over this page on Rhodiola and find some disconcerting misinformation. YES - RHODIOLA will cause some people (notably those who are bipolar) possible manic episodes if taken in too high a dose. One person says they are taking 600 MG a day. That's too high for most people. Try taking 150 mg of a good Rhodiola and then moving up to maybe 300 mg if you like the feeling. No reason to do any more than that. We've had seven years experience with Rhodiola in our household, with great success. But, not for skin lightening!! I don't know where one poster got that idea (and the dose she's taking is WAY too much). Consider Rhodiola an herb that is to be respected and treated gingerly. It has been used for many centuries, quite safely.
Stress and Anxiety
Posted by Brittany (Erie, Pa Usa) on 11/15/2009
★★★☆☆WORKED TEMPORARILY
I began taking a rhodiola supplement in 300 mg per day. It has not worked miracles, but it seems to help with stress and anxiety by promoting concentration and mood regulation. I seem desensitized to stress but at the same time focused, but sometimes to the point where I am withdrawn and placid, the effect I hear some anti-depressants have. Furthermore, if I stop taking it for even one day, the aches and pain, the impatience and anxiety return in more their usual force. I get the shakes and extreme irritability if I skip taking the herb. Rhodiola does not give me energy the way it effects some people, but it subdues my stress response which allows me to be more productive. I do not think this herb is for me, however; I think it would work better for an athlete or someone who lives in a city and walks places, someone who can take full advantage of the physical adaptogenic qualities. I will try Ashwaganda and hope it subdues less and uplifts more.
Rhodiola Feedback
Posted by Brygivrob (Escondido, Ca) on 11/08/2009
it is written above that chinese source rhodiola does not work
Side Effects
Posted by Rob (Manhattan, New York) on 10/05/2009
