Rhodiola

Stress is perhaps one of the most overlooked causes of poor health today. The presence of physical, biological, or chemical stressors can result in declining mental performance, physical ailments, and other problems like difficulty sleeping or poor appetite. Through the years scientists have identified a class of natural plant supplements which assist the body in dealing with stress. Known as “adaptogens” they prepare the body in advance for the onslaught of stress much like an athlete’s training prepares his body for the stress of competition. When stress is present adaptogens help the body handle it more effectively and return the body to a normalized state once the stressor is removed. Korean Ginseng and Siberian Ginseng are two well-known adaptogens.

Rhodiola rosea is another premier adaptogen. The plant is found in abundance in Siberia, but also in mountainous regions of Asia, Europe, and the Arctic. Known as “Golden Root,” it has been used for centuries in traditional European medicinal systems. Russians brewed it as a tea for an energy boost. Other practitioners prescribed it to help combat fatigue, depression, anemia, and infections among other ailments.

Modern research has confirmed what these practitioners knew by instinct. The adaptogenic qualities of Rhodiola offer potential help for a variety of stress related problems. In studies, Rhodiola helped prevent or relieve conditions which resulted from elevated physical or mental stress. These conditions included declining work performance, problems sleeping, abnormal appetite, bad temper, headaches, and fatigue. Rhodiola is believed to offer some help for athletic performance and improved strength for the immune system.

Rosavins are the active compounds in Rhodiola responsible for Rhodiola’s unique characteristics. Not all Rhodiola products are the same. Vitabase Rhodiola is standardized to contain a minimum of 3% rosavins.