Rhodiola is an herb that’s sometimes referred to as roseroot, golden root, and King’s crown. This flowering perennial grows in northern areas of Europe, Asia, and North America, including regions of the Arctic. Rhodiola bears small yellowish-white flowers and can typically be found growing near rocky sea coasts or atop cliffs. It has a long history as a medicinal plant thanks to powerful phenols, flavonoids, phenols, and quinones. Many studies have been conducted on Rhodiola and confirm what folk medicine practitioners have long understood: Rhodiola tea has many health benefits.
Depression Relief
Many people who suffer from depression also experience fatigue. Mental fatigue can affect energy levels to the point of debilitation. Rhodiola can alleviate depression-related fatigue by improving energy levels. Simply drinking Rhodiola tea can lead to fewer symptoms of depression. Rhodiola appears to increase the sensitivity of neurotransmitters. With this boost, the neurotransmitters can more effectively do their job enhancing mood. If you are taking medications for depression or anxiety, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before embarking on any course of herbal medicine.
Improve Athletic Performance
Just as Rhodiola can increase energy levels for people with depression, the plant can also assist athletes, ultimately enhancing their performance. Rhodiola also improves strength and stamina. According to research, Rhodiola can reduce oxidative stress, a natural occurrence associated with physical activity. It also boosts red blood cell production. These benefits lead to reduced fatigue, a perk for many types of athletes. The Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism confirmed this research and also asserts that Rhodiola can increase the production of the chemical ATP, to improve cellular energy.
Reduce Stress
Stress is a regular part of modern living, but it can get out of hand and affect mental health. Chronic stress can even impede physical health. It isn’t always easy to manage stress, especially when it is job-related or from a long-term crisis. Rhodiola has the power to soothe and calm a stressed mind. In areas like Siberia, where winters are long and hard, Rhodiola has been prescribed by folk medicine practitioners for thousands of years to combat feelings of stress and depression. If you’re feeling keyed up by life events, take time to enjoy a cup of Rhodiola tea for its relaxing effects.
Rhodiola Tea Supports Cognitive Function
According to research, Rhodiola can enhance cognitive function by improving concentration and memory. With its phenylpropanoids, Rhodiola is showing promise as a possible natural treatment for people with Alzheimer’s disease. The tea can reduce commonly experienced symptoms of depression and fatigue. If you or a loved one has Alzheimer’s, Rhodiola may provide relief. Hopefully, future studies will allow the medical realm to recognize the herb as a viable treatment.
Improved Sexual Function
Folk medicine practitioners have long suspected Rhodiola can enhance sexual health. Traditionally, this plant was prescribed for erectile dysfunction, to boost libido, and to enhance fertility. With its ability to promote energy and curb stress and depression, Rhodiola could have significant benefits for sexual health.
Immune System Support
Your immune system is essential for good health. Rhodiola can support a strong immune system so you can better fight off infections and viruses. Rhodiola contains compounds that can improve the immune system’s response to threats. In many cases, the sooner the immune system can combat these threats, the less likely they are to detract from health. In fact, there is some evidence that Rhodiola can enhance the body’s resistance to toxins that cause infections. Stress can impede immune system function, and Rhodiola naturally combats stress. The plant can support overall mental and physical health.
Potential Cancer Prevention
Rhodiola is rich in antioxidants. Researchers suspect the plant can combat or possibly ward off cancer, as its antioxidants appear to have anti-tumor properties. Current medical research is considering Rhodiola as a natural treatment for bladder cancer. Antioxidants are known to reduce free radicals in the body. By ridding the body of these unwanted cells, antioxidants help to maintain good health.
Enhance Heart Health
By reducing corticosteroids in the body, Rhodiola may support cardiovascular health. Stress, especially chronic stress, can lead to heart disease. Rhodiola can reduce stress levels, which is especially relevant to heart health. Furthermore, research demonstrates Rhodiola can regulate heartbeat. It may also reduce the risk of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries). Including Rhodiola in your diet could enhance the health of your heart and cardiovascular system.
Support Weight Loss
Many researchers are looking for natural weight loss remedies. Researchers have only recently looked at this plant’s potential for burning belly fat and encouraging weight loss. Rhodiola can speed up the body’s ability to burn fat. Therefore, when paired with a reasonable fitness plan, Rhodiola can produce improved weight loss results. If you’re looking for a slimming solution, consider Rhodiola.
Diabetes Control
Early research indicates Rhodiola may have some promise for treating diabetes. Rhodiola may increase glucose transporters in the blood, therefore reducing blood sugar levels. The topic requires more research, but people with diabetes can still enjoy a cup of Rhodiola. They’ll experience its many benefits as well as its potential for decreasing blood sugar levels.