Rhodiola
Rhodiola referred to as rhodiola rosea, or the golden root, is a powerful adaptogen with plenty of research behind it. Adaptogens are a category of plants that help your body adapt to physical, chemical and environmental stress. It’s safe to say that rhodiola is one of the most efficacious of these plants. The herb grows at high altitudes in artic areas surrounding Asia and Eastern Europe. The Vikings used this herb for strength and the Sherpas have used it to help climb high altitudes including Mt. Everest.
Similar to other adaptogens, rhodiola provides a biological fortification against stress, in fact, a study in roundworms suggest that rhodiola acts as a gentle stressor following ingestion, followed by a boost in the organisms stress defenses. This is an incredible process technically defined as ‘hormesis’.
In 2009,
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Rhodiola can actually increase your red blood cell count. Yes, you read that right! Red blood cells are the cells that carry oxygen to muscles and having a higher red blood cell count can drastically delay fatigue while improving performance.
In 2004 a study published in the International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism claimed the anti inflammatory benefits of rhodiola caused rapid muscle recovery and improved endurance. [2]
On the other hand, even if you aren’t a serious athlete you can still experience plenty of benefit by taking rhodiola. You could be a student, stay at home mother or father, or intense entrepreneur and still benefit from rhodiola’s proven ability to increase workplace performance and decrease the effects of sleep deprivation. [3]
Depression and Overall Brain Function
Rhodiola works to increase neuron sensitivity in the brain, specifically two neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. These are the neruotransmitters involved in our focus, memory, pleasure, and