Description
Rhodiola comprises several species of plants in the Crassulacae
family ¨C and is generally found in the arctic mountain
regions of Siberia. The root of the plant is used medicinally
and is also known as "Arctic root" or "Golden
root" and more recently as ¡°Crenulin¡±. Rhodiola has
been used for hundreds of years to treat cold and flu-like
symptoms, promote longevity and increase the body¡¯s resistance
to physical and mental stresses.
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Traditional Medicine
Traditional folk medicine used R. rosea to increase physical
endurance, work productivity, longevity, resistance to
high altitude sickness, and to treat fatigue, depression,
anemia, impotence, gastrointestinal ailments, infections,
and nervous system disorders. In mountain villages of
Siberia, a bouquet of roots is still given to couples
prior to marriage to enhance fertility and assure the
birth of healthy children. In Middle Asia, R. rosea tea
was the most effective treatment for cold and flu during
severe Asian winters. Mongolian doctors prescribed it
for tuberculosis and cancer. For centuries, only family
members knew where to harvest the wild "golden roots"
and the methods of extraction.2 Siberians secretly transported
the herb down ancient trails to the Caucasian Mountains
where it was traded for Georgian wines, fruits, garlic,
and honey. Chinese emperors sent expeditions to Siberia
to bring back the "golden root" for medicinal
preparations. |
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Clinical Applications
Rhodiola rosea is a popular plant in traditional medical
systems in Eastern Europe and Asia with a reputation for
stimulating the nervous system, decreasing depression,
enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue, and preventing
high altitude sickness. Rhodiola rosea has been categorized
as an adaptogen by Russian researchers due to its observed
ability to increase resistance to a variety of chemical,
biological, and physical stressors. Its claimed benefits
include antidepressant, anticancer, cardioprotective,
and central nervous system enhancement. Research also
indicates great utility in asthenic conditions (decline
in work performance, sleep difficulties, poor appetite,
irritability, hypertension, headaches, and fatigue) developing
subsequent to intense physical or intellectual strain.
The adaptogenic, cardiopulmonary protective, and central
nervous system activities of Rhodiola rosea have been
attributed primarily to its ability to influence levels
and activity of monoamines and opioid peptides such as
beta-endorphins. (Altern Med Rev 2001;6(3):293-302) |
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Clinical Applications
Promotes weight loss
Aphrodisiac
Relieves stress
Enhances athletic performance
Tonic for well-being
Immune enhancer
Improves cognitive function
Anti-depressant Product Specification
Polyphenols 50%/Rosavins ( Rosarin,
Rosavin, Rovin) 3%-5%/Salidroside 1%-3%(from Rhodiola
rosea );
Polyphenols 50%/Salidroside 3%-5% (from Rhodiola crenulata
) ;
Different specs of Rhodiola extracts available.
Dosage
General dosage recommendations
for Rhodiola rosea extract are typically in the range
of 100-300mg/day.
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