Rhodiola rosea: what is it for and how to take it

THERhodiola rosea,also known as golden root or golden root, is a medicinal plant that is known as "adaptogenic", that is, that is able to "adapt" the functioning of the body, helping to increase physical resistance, reduce the effects of stress and , even, improve brain function.

In addition, this plant is also traditionally used to help treat colds, anemia, sexual impotence, lack of memory, depression, anxiety, muscle pain and mental fatigue.

THERhodiola roseait can be purchased in health food stores, drugstores and some street markets, usually in the form of capsules with dry extract.

Some of the benefits, with greater approval, than theRhodiola roseahealth features include:

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

One of the most important effects of Rhodiola rosea is its ability to decrease the effect of stress and anxiety. This is because the plant contains compounds that appear to promote a moderate increase in endorphins, providing a sense of well-being, which also contributes to improving mood in depression.

2. Decreases tiredness and fatigue

Although the concrete reason why this happens is not yet known, several studies prove that this plant reduces fatigue, increasing performance in both physical and mental tasks.

3. Stimulates memory and concentration

In some investigations, in addition to reducing stress and fatigue,Rhodiola roseait also demonstrated the ability to improve memory, concentration and learning.

This effect may be related to an increased blood supply to the brain, which can improve the processing capacity and perception of information.

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4. Protects the cardiovascular system

THERhodiola rosea it has a strong antioxidant action that reduces the damage caused by oxidative stress, leading to an improvement in cardiovascular health.

In addition, as the plant also helps to reduce stress, anxiety and tiredness, it also acts indirectly on the heartbeat and blood pressure.

5. Strengthens the immune system

By helping to reduce stress levels and having strong antioxidant action, theRhodiola rosea can be used to strengthen the immune system and boost immunity, fighting mild infections such as colds or flu.

Some studies point out that regular use of this plant can also increase natural killer cells and improve the immunity of T cells, which can end up helping the body to protect itself against mutations, toxins and other harmful chemicals, and can therefore be a good ally in cancer treatment. However, further investigation is needed.

6. Improves sleep quality

And studies carried out at high altitudes, this plant has contributed to improve sleep disorders, regulating sleep-wake cycles and improving sleep quality in general, without producing negative effects.

7. Regulates blood sugar levels

The use ofRhodiola roseait seems to be able to increase the number of glucose transporters, causing the blood to be directed into the cells, in order to be used, instead of remaining in the bloodstream.

In addition, other studies also indicate that this plant can decrease the absorption of carbohydrates, which facilitates the body's work to keep glucose levels well controlled.

How to take

THERhodiola rosea it is used mainly in the form of capsules and the recommended dose depends on the percentage of dry extract contained in the medicine, generally varying between 100 and 600 mg per day, and should preferably be taken in the morning.

In addition, it can also be ingested through tea, which can be prepared as follows:

  • Gold root infusion: put 1 teaspoon of plant root in a cup of boiling water, let stand for 4 hours, strain and drink up to 2 times a day.

Possible side effects

As an adaptogenic plant, Rhodiola rosea is usually well tolerated and, therefore, no side effects are known.

Who should not take

The golden root is contraindicated in arousal states and should not be used by children, pregnant women, breastfeeding women or patients with a known history of allergy to any of the components of the plant.