Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea

Also known as Golden Root, Rhodiola Rosea grows in the coldest regions of the planet. It can be found in Siberia, Iceland, Scandinavia, the British Isles, the Rocky Mountains and central Asia.

Rhodiola Rosea has been used to treat ailments for thousands of years. Greek physician Dioscorides was the first to document its medical uses in 77 A.D. However, the Greeks were not the only ancient people to discover the benefits of this plant. The Vikings, Chinese and Russians all used the Golden Root for strength, vitality, endurance and overall health.

True Rhodiola Rosea

There are around 20 different species of Rhodiola genus in nature, but only the true Rhodiola Rosea has been helpful in reducing stress and depression. True Rhodiola Rosea contains rosavin, rosin, rosarin, phenylpropanoids and terpenoids. All other forms of Rhodiola do not have the same powerful healing properties as the Golden Root.

For Stress

For generations, many ancient civilizations have used the healing properties of herbs to treat ailments and normalize hormone production in the body. Rhodiola Rosea is considered an adaptogen, an herb that increases the body’s resistance to stress, anxiety, trauma and fatigue. The adaptogen qualities of this golden root has an overall stabilizing effect on the body, decreasing cortisol production (a stress-causing hormone).

Studies have found that properties of Rhodiola Rosea enhance neurotransmitters in the brain, increasing levels of serotonin which help the body adapt to stress and anxiety.

For Depression

The effects of stress in the human body can lead to occasional or even prolonged depression. Depression can be caused from both physiological as well as psychological factors. The same neurotransmitters that are related to stress are also a cause of depression. Researchers have found that Rhodiola Rosea’s ability to increase levels of serotonin are much more powerful than similar herbs.

This herb’s natural ability to adapt the body to a normalized state has helped people climb out of a physical and mental state of depression, enhance mood and boost energy

Other Benefits

Researchers have said that Rhodiola Rosea has many benefits other than treating stress and depression. It has been said to improve libido, enhance memory and reduce the risk factors associated with heart disease.

Dosage

Rhodiola Rosea is sold as an herbal supplement that can be found at any health food store. To treat chronic depression or any serious disease, please consult with an herbalist or other health care professional for dosage information.

by OWC Staff Journalist Andrea Ervin

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