Rhodiola Rosea

Introduction
Rhodiola rosea is an interesting and effective adaptogen, having tried it myself several times I will mention that the effects can deviate, not only from individual to individual, but also from day to day and brand to brand. However, I have never taken it long-term, as such I cannot state with accuracy whether or not these daily deviations subside with constant administration. There are certain consistency with the adaptogen, however, that I'd like to put into writing.

Properties
The following comes directly from Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief on page 191. I have altered it to list form for increased readability.
- Adaptogen
- Antidepressant
- Antioxidant
- Antiviral
- Immune system stimulant
- Nervine
- Mild central nervous system stimulant
- Antiarrythmic (protects against irregular hearbeats)
- Cardioprotective
- Neuroprotective

In addition, the following excerpt summarizes the benefits:

"Rhodiola is a cooling adaptogen; therefore it is less likely to cause overstimulation (nervousness or insomnia) that occasionally can occur when people are taking red Asian ginseng. It has significant benefits for the nervous system, and it has been shown to enhance alertness, reduce fatigue, and improve memory and depressed mental states."^[1]

Mechanism of Action
The following is a direct excerpt from the Rhodiola Rosea monograph.

"The adaptogenic properties, cardiopulmonary protective effects, and central nervous system activities of Rhodiola rosea have been attributed primarily to its ability to influence levels and activity of biogenic monoamines such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the cerebral cortex, brain stem, and hypothalamus. It is believed the changes in monoamine levels are due to inhibition of the activity of enzymes responsible for monoamine degradation and facilitation of neurotransmitter transport within the brain."^[8]

ADHD
As reported in the mechanism of action, Rhodiola Rosea influences levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine^[8]. The current understanding of ADHD places emphasis on dopamine^[2]. Given the connection and the enhancement of alertness, Rhodiola Rosea may be used to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. It is difficult to know for certain, without ample research, the benefits of this herb for that cause.

An anecdote was listed on Revolution Health for this particular purpose. Though difficult to rely on anecdotes, due to subjective ratings as well as low credibility, the post does offer the suggestion of a promise in its use.

Sleep Deprivation
Rhodiola Rosea was experimented with to see if the effects could counteract the usual cognitive decline accompanying sleep deprivation. The following excerpt summarizes the study:

"The decrease in physical and mental performance of physicians on prolonged night call is well known. A low dose (170 mg/d) of R. rosea root extract was given to 56 young, healthy physicians on night call (Darbinyan and others 2000). The effect was measured as total mental performance, calculated as “fatigue index.” The tests reflected an overall level of mental fatigue involving complex cognitive functions, such as associative thinking, short-term memory, calculation, concentration, and speed of audio-visual perception. These parameters were tested before and after night duty during 3 periods of 2 wk each in a double-blind cross-over trial. A statistically significant improvement in mental performance tests was observed in the treatment group (R. rosea) during the 1st 2-wk period. However, at 6 wk, the effect appeared to be lost."^[3]

Athletic Performance

"In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study, rhodiola was found to enhance exercise capacity in healthy young test subjects. Improvements were noted in muscle strength, speed of limb movement, reaction time, and attention span."^[1][4]

References:
^[1] (Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief)

^[2] Wikipedia entry for: ADHD - Genetic Factors

^[3] (Rhodiola Rosea: A Versatile Adaptogen, pg. 193)

^[4] Acute Rhodiola Rosea Intake Can Improve Endurance Exercise Performance (De Bock et al. 2004)

^[8] Stancheva SL, Mosharrof A. Effect of the extract of Rhodiola rosea L. on the content of the brain biogenic monamines. Med Physiol 1987;40:85-87