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It’s
a bird!
It’s a plane!
No … it’s Super Herb!
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea),
(aka “golden root”), might just be a real live “super herb!” It
is native to mountainous regions of Asia, parts of Europe and the Arctic,
and has long been used as a healing adaptogen.
Records show that the ancient Greek physician Dioscorides once
prescribed it, but it is most familiar in Scandinavia and Russia.
Swedish researchers believe that the Vikings regularly used
rhodiola.
Rhodiola may not be able to leap tall
buildings in a single bound, but it has been shown to reduce depression,
enhance performance, improve sleep, reduce fatigue, and reduce stress.
Some herbalists use rhodiola to help fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue
and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), since it normalizes
neurotransmitters in the brain, like dopamine and serotonin.
Studies have shown its benefits for increased memory enhancement,
regulation of menstrual periods, infertility, reduction in
chemotherapy’s side effects, increased sexual libido, erectile
dysfunction, enhancement of thyroid function, increased endurance and
protection from environmental toxins.
What doesn’t it
do?
Quality rhodiola is usually
standardized to contain a set amount of rosavin, an active ingredient used
in clinical studies. Look for at least 2% rosavin.
There are no known drug or other interactions associated with
rhodiola; however, studies are still being done on how it may interact
with other adaptogens (such as ginseng) and with other supplements.
Rhodiola should be taken early in the day because it can interfere
with sleep or cause vivid dreams during the first few weeks of use.
It should not be used in anyone with bipolar disorder or using
stimulants. Daily doses will
vary based on need and health condition.
If I were a damsel in distress, I’d
probably call on rhodiola rosea to save the day!
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