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.
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.
Side Effects
Posted by Kathy (Dallas, Tx) on 03/26/2011
I started taking 100 mg. of Rhodiola 30 minutes before breakfast yesterday. So far it is making me feel more tired and sleepy. Does anyone know if these side effects will wear off eventually or no? I would really like to take it long term because of the many benefits.
Side Effects
Posted by Smulf (Lexington, Ky) on 03/30/2011
I was told by my doctor to take Rhodeola once in the morning (3% rosavins at 350mg). The first couple of days I felt like a new person. Now it has the complete opposite effect. I am so tired and have a massive headache from it. Instead of feeling better when I workout I feel weaker and my endurance is worse. What could be the problem?
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.
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 Barb J (Boston, Mass, Usa) on 10/03/2011
Oh, if it's the Amway version, it DOES contain caffeine...
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.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Chris (Kitchener, Ontario, Canada) on 06/21/2012
★★★★★
Rhodiola Rosea is a miracle for shift work. I began using it for sleeping issues/ libido about 1 year ago. Wow has it helped. It works by regulating the body's brain chemicals and hormones. I actually have a health business now that sells the stuff, so I buy my own brand. I find it to be the best quality one I've had out of the 5 kinds I have used.
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 Luis (Visalia, Ca) on 01/05/2014
What is the dosage she was taking and how often?
Broad Benefits
Posted by Becky (Fort Wayne, In) on 07/19/2011
Please tell me the brand you are using as I need something for menopause symptoms. Thanks
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).
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?
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.
Side Effects
Posted by Bee (USA) on 10/05/2009
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.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Sixfurlongs (Corona, Ca.) on 08/03/2009
★★★★★
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.
Side Effects
Posted by Ruser (New York, NY) on 07/09/2009
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
Posted by Sisterlouise (Portland, Oregon) on 10/01/2009
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
Posted by Rob (Manhattan, New York) on 10/02/2009
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
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 Janice (Coloma, Mi) on 05/11/2009
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.
Side Effects
Posted by Diana (Arlington, VA) on 04/17/2009
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.
Side Effects
Posted by Maxine (Rochester, NY) on 06/06/2009
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
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.
Side Effects
Posted by Anonymous (Melbourne, Australia) on 03/28/2012
I had a similar experience. I took Rhodiola _____ brand for about 1 week (2 per day) followed by ____ brand (2 per day most days, 1 per day occassionally) for about 2. 5 weeks and my period was late. The day after my period was due, I stopped taking Rhodiola after reading other comments on this website. My period is now 1 week late. Rhodiola was very effective for treating anxiety, however I am quite concerned about this side effect and what it may mean for my reproductive cycle. In case it is relevant, I have had mild cramping. Also, I am definitely not pregnant as confirmed by 2 pregnancy tests.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Posted by Paola (Lugano, Ticino/Switzerland) on 03/16/2009
★★★★★
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.
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
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Posted by Bear (Mascotte/fl/usa) on 02/20/2014
I Have Hypothyroidism and desperately want to get off my medication. I'm having heart issues that can be caused by thyroid issues and really want to know if you can get off your thyroid meds with rhodiola.
Rhodiola Elixir Recipe
Posted by Bev (Long Beach, CA/USA) on 03/08/2009
I FINALLY found a site that sells Rhodiola Root. S&H is pricey.
http://www.life-extension-drugs.com/rhodiolaroot.html
Rhodiola Elixir Recipe
Posted by T (Maryland, USA) on 03/09/2009
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.
Rhodiola Elixir Recipe
Posted by Bev (Long Beach, CA/USA) on 04/10/2009
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 Elixir Recipe
Posted by Ramona (New York) on 06/16/2011
Rhodiola Feedback
Posted by Diana (London, England) on 02/07/2009
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
