Rhodiola rosea- A Perfect Adaptogen
Sep
6
Written by:
9/6/2011
Rhodiola rosea is one of the key components of Russian herbal medicine. During the cold war, Russian scientists studied Rhodiola and other adaptogenic herbs for their benefits in elite athletes and military personnel.
Sixteen scientifically established adaptogens have been identified. Adaptogens such as Rhodiola help reduce the effects of stress-induced increases in cortisol. These effects include immune system dysfunction, hypertension, elevated glucose, insulin resistance, carbohydrate cravings, bone loss, reduced libido and fat deposits. Stress not only refers to the normal stressors we encounter but to invisible stressors such as toxic chemical exposures and heat shock proteins.
Rhodiola, in particular, stimulates appropriate immune responses, improves mental performance, and offers anti-aging benefits. In patients with autoimmune diseases, Rhodiola helps tame the erratic response that leads to autoantibody production. The daily dose is 250 mg daily. Precautions: Rhodiola should not be used by individuals with manic or bipolar disorders.