Rhodiola rosea
Arctic root, salidroside + rosavin, anti-fatigue adaptogen.
Pharmacology
Contents
Related comparisons
Ashwagandha vs Rhodiola vs BacopaWHAT IS RHODIOLA ROSEA?
Detailed overview
Rhodiola rosea (arctic root, "golden root") is an anti-fatigue herb used for centuries by populations of arctic uplands. Its active components are salidroside (a tyrosol glycoside) and the rosavin group – a standardized extract at 3% rosavin / 1% salidroside ratio (Russian Rosenroot tradition) is recommended. RCT evidence: Olsson 2009 (PMID 19367259) improvement in mild-moderate depression without sertraline, Edwards 2012 (PMID 22228617) stress-related fatigue syndrome, Hung 2011 (PMID 21366835) physical-fatigue reduction. Acute effect is perceptible after a single 200-400 mg dose (vs. Bacopa which requires an 8-12 week course). Ideal combined with low-dose caffeine against mental fatigue.
Mechanism
Monoaminergic + HPA modulation
Onset
1-4 weeks
Legal status
OTC + EU traditional herbal medicine
Receptor profile
- Cortisol / HPA axisModerate
- Monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine)Weak
- Cellular energy / ATP metabolismWeak
- Antioxidant defensesWeak
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 6
- Mild agitation, jitteriness or feeling overstimulated, especially at higher doses
- Insomnia if taken in late afternoon or evening (stimulating, so morning dosing is advised)
- Dizziness or mild headache
- Dry mouth
- Mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea (worse on an empty stomach)
- Irritability or restlessness in sensitive individuals
Contraindications · 5
- Bipolar disorder or manic tendency: its activating effect may trigger a manic/hypomanic episode
- Avoid with MAO inhibitors and serotonergic antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs); its own MAO-modulating effect carries a serotonin-syndrome risk
- Not recommended in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data
- Caution when combined with stimulants (caffeine, ADHD medications) due to additive overstimulation and blood-pressure rise
- Caution in diabetes and with blood-pressure medication, as it may affect blood-sugar and blood-pressure levels
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
FAQ
FAQ
Rhodiola rosea is a herb that has been used for centuries mainly to fight fatigue and help the body cope better with stress (as a so-called adaptogen). Its two key active compounds, salidroside and the rosavins, are thought to be behind this anti-fatigue effect.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.