Rhodiola Rosea and Anti-aging

Adaptogens

One of the most exciting therapies in the field of anti-aging involves adaptogens.

Though adaptogens were not given their name until 1947, by the Russian scientist Dr. Nicolai Lazarev, the substance has been used for thousands of years in China and Russia. Nowadays we know that adaptogens are herbal substances that helps adjust the body's response, on the cellular level, to various stresses put upon it. This regulates many of the body's systems, including the immune system, nervous system, endocrine system, cardiovascular system and mental functions. Studies have shown that adaptogens can increase mental clarity and physical energy, enhanced immunity and resistance to disease, and reduced recovery time after exercise. Other reported effects are an improved metabolism and more restful sleep. Over recent years, hundreds of experimental and clinical studies on adaptogens have been done - most of them in Russia and Germany. Most of these studies have shown the outstanding stress-protective and immune system enhancing capacities of adaptogens.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea, also known as Arctic Root or Golden Root, is a plant that is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, Asia and the Arctic region. It grows in dry, cold areas and has been a staple in the diets of many Eastern European and Scandinavian countries for centuries. Traditionally, the plant was given to betrothed Siberian couples to ensure the birth of many healthy children.

Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb. Siberian Rhodiola rosea extract has also shown to reduce and/or prevent stress-induced cardiac damage, decrease myocardial catecholamines and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. It also reduces adrenal catecholamine release, and can prevent heart arrhythmia. Siberian Rhodiola rosea is also capable of improving thyroid function without the side affects of hyperthyroidism.

During periods of exercise or intense athletic training, Siberian Rhodiola rosea has been shown to improve glycogen (the muscle fuel) production and therefore increase muscle power and energy. This also help to stave off fatigue during intense activity.

It boosts the breakdown of fat cells and so can actually help the body burn fat better and help with weight reduction and improved metabolism.

Real Siberian Rhodiola rosea root extract must contain rosiridin, rosavins and salidroside in ratios approximately 3:1:1 that reflect the phytochemistry of the natural plant. For example, the extract of Siberian Rhodiola rosea root should contain minimum 3% rosavins, 1% rosiridins and 1% salidroside.

Caution

Currently, there are no known drugs or herbal interactions associated with Rhodiola; however, research is still being done on the product, especially here in the West. One should not take Rhodiola while pregnant or breast-feeding as the risks to pregnant women and nursing mothers have not been studied enough to know for certain if there is a potential hazardous interaction. Because Rhodiola is a stimulant, individuals with manic-depression (bipolar disorder) should not take this product. Irritability and insomnia are two of the more common side effects of Rhodiola. They are usually seen when more than 1,500 mg of the herbal is taken a day.