Rhodiola rosea (commonly called golden root, rose root, king's crown, etc.) is a perennial flowering plant that grows naturally in wild Arctic regions of Europe, Asia and North America. It grows from 2 to 15 inches tall and is sometimes used as a groundcover. The flowers bloom in summer and range from yellow to greenish yellow and sometimes are tipped with red.
Rhodiola has been used in traditional medicine in Russia and Scandinavian countries for centuries. As far back as the first century A.D. it was documented as a headache remedy used by the Romans. The Vikings used Rhodiola to enhance their physical strength and endurance and Chinese emperors even sent expeditions to Siberia to bring back the highly prized herb.
Studies on Rhodiola rosea’s medicinal uses have appeared in the scientific literature of Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, the Soviet Union and Iceland. It is still widely used in Russia as an all-round tonic. In Sweden and other Scandinavian countries it is used to increase the capacity for mental work and to boost general strength and vitality. It is so effective that Olympic athletes, master chess players and even political leaders have touted using it.
Due to its affinity for optimizing the mind and body especially during times of stress it is considered an adaptogen herb.
Rhodiola is considered a Saturn (Saturday) herb in our Medical Astrology system. This system is based on the day of the week you were born and it relates to the chakra pertaining to that day of the week.
Health Benefits of Rhodiola
Increases Energy and Sustains Energy Throughout the Day: Rhodiola increases the oxygen carrying capacity of our red blood cells, making it particularly effective at increasing energy, vitality and stamina.
Reduces Stress: Rhodiola is considered an adaptogen – a natural substance that increases your body’s resistance to stress as it reduces cortisol and balances the endocrine system. (Reducing stress can result in more energy.)
Protects Your Heart: Because if its’ stress reducing ability it can give protection from heart attacks and stress related heart issues.
Increases Focus/Improves Brain Function (even as we age)
Rhodiola has been shown to increase mental performance and reduce mental fatigue especially during stressed times. Try for Alzheimer’s disease also.
Increases Athletic Performance
In increasing your energy levels it results in better athletic performance and endurance. It also speeds up recovery time.
Reduces Depression/Insomnia: Rhodiola reduces depression by balancing neurotransmitters in our brain which can also help with insomnia.
Regulates Blood Sugar levels: Rhodiola has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels and may help those with diabetes and hypoglycemia.
Helps with Weight Loss and Belly Fat: Rhodiola increases your metabolism and encourages your body to use fat cells for energy-especially the fat stored in the abdomen area.
Strengthens Your Immune System: Rhodiola increases and protects your immune system.
Anticancer properties: It has been investigated for its anti-cancer properties and has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain cancers in lab studies