Rhodiola

Rhodiola and Stress Management

One of the benefits of Rhodiola is that it helps the body fight off fatigue and stress. When your body is under stress, whether it is caused from a work deadline, financial worries, a fight with a friend, or physical stress, it produces cortisol.

Cortisol is a hormone that helps the body deal with stress and, in the correct amount, it is beneficial. When the body produces too much or it stays in your system for too long, it can start to cause damage and fatigue. Rhodiola helps keep the production of cortisol to a minimum and helps the body get rid of excess amounts so it does not build up. This helps the body fight off stress and its negative effects.

Rhodiola and Energy

Between work, family, and extra-curricular activities, many people go through the day tired and lethargic. One of the reasons for a lack of energy is a deficiency of nutrients that keep the brain and body alert. Rhodiola is a natural herb that helps improve attention levels and gives the body an energy boost, without the negative effects of stimulants such as coffee and energy drinks.

Athletes also use Rhodiola to help increase their athletic performance. Because it increases levels of energy, physical endurance increases and one is able to work out for longer periods of time. It also helps to improve coordination, increase strength, and improve stamina.

Rhodiola and Weight Loss

Losing weight can be a very frustrating process. One reason is that fat which is stored in adipose tissue is very difficult to release. Areas that are stubborn, such as love handles, can be broken down by the enzyme lipase in the body, but the enzyme has a low activity rate.  Rhodiola is able to stimulate this enzyme and has been shown to be a factor in naturally releasing fat stored in the tissues.

Rhodiola and Mood

Rhodiola can increase the levels of seretonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that helps control and improve mood. This can help with moodiness, mild depression, irritability, and even panic and anxiety attacks. Other neurotransmitters that Rhodiola affects are norepinephrine and dopamine, which results in keeping a healthy balance of chemicals and improving functions in the brain.

Rhodiola Dosage Guidelines

The amount of Rhodiola one should take depends on the usage and reason for taking it. If the reason for taking it is for the effect of stimulation, lower doses are recommended and higher doses are suggested for calming and relaxing effects. Very high doses can be used for excessive stressful situations for a short period of time.

• Average dosage is 100-400 mg/day
• To increase energy and stimulation, take 120-185 mg/day
• 200-600mg/day is recommended for calming and stress management
• Short-term stressful situations, 1,000-1,800 mg/day can be taken

In order to decrease chances of side effects, start with a lower dose and increase the amount gradually.

Rhodiola and Side Effects

In its natural state, Rhodiola is an adaptogen. An adaptogen balances the body, is non-toxic, and should not have any side effects.

As a natural herb, the side effects of taking Rhodiola are few and far between, but certain precautions should be kept in mind. With high doses, some people have reported sleeplessness, anxiety, and irritability. Dizziness and dry mouth may occur with lower doses. Other possible side effects include thinner blood and increased blood pressure.

Because side effects are unknown, women who are breast feeding or pregnant should consult their health care provider before taking Rhodiola. Because of its stimulating effects, people who are manic deppressive or bipolar should avoid taking Rhodiola.

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