There are over 90 different species of Rhodiola. However it is Rhodiola Rosea which is widely used for treating anxiety and a broad range of other conditions.
Much evidence links Rhodiola to anxiety symptom relief. These include panic attacks, anxiety induced asthma, and phobias. Reports claim that it is useful even in cases where anxiety is severe, unlike many other herbs.
Anxiety can result in numerous physical symptoms, which include, but are not limited to: Muscle tension; Dry mouth; Dizziness; Shortness of Breath; Heart Palpitations; Sleep disturbance; Increased perspiration, particularly hands and feet; and Nausea.



- Adaptogenic herb for reducing stress
- Boosts energy, focus & mood
- May reduce sleep problems & irritability
Rhodiola for Anxiety Relief
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Rhodiola acts as an adaptogen in the body.
This means it helps to prevent the above symptoms by bringing the metabolism back into balance.
It helps the body handle stressors much more competently and reduces physical effects of stress. Many herbs and supplements are reported as aiding symptoms of anxiety, but these benefits are only achieved over time.
Reports relating to Rhodiola for anxiety appear to suggest that there is no delay in the onset of effects. Improvements have been noted to occur within hours of consumption.
Individuals report that after taking Rhodiola, symptoms of anxiety not only are much diminished in intensity, but also in frequency. This suggests that the herb is effective for preventing anxiety before it occurs.
Several stress-reducing mechanisms of action have been identified for Rhodiola Rosea so far. It has been shown to decrease sympathetic nervous system activity, thereby reducing signs of anxiety including rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, restlessness or shortness of breath.
It has also been shown to increase parasympathic nervous system activity, which is associated with a state of relaxation and calm. Studies have found it to increase serotonin levels in the brain – a neurotransmitter that is directly involved in regulating mood and anxiety. This chemical is linked to feelings of happiness, satiety and comfort.
It is important to stick within a safe dosage range for this supplement. In extremely high dosages, Rhodiola Rosea may exacerbate anxiety and mental stress. At high doses, it is observed to increase beta wave activity in the brain. Increased levels of beta waves may signal anxiety, while alpha waves signal calm. Follow recommended dosages carefully to avoid worsening of symptoms.
Damaging Effects of Long-Term Anxiety
Medical researchers are still uncertain as to the actual causes of anxiety. However, they are certain that long term anxiety can result in permanent alteration to the nervous system.
Studies show that stress which is prolonged or severe can result in changes to the way nerve cells conduct information to different parts of the body. Stress and anxiety can affect many systems of the human body:
- Female reproductive system affecting libido, menstrual cycle and causing pre-menstrual tension as well as menopause and infertility.
- Male reproductive system, testosterone and sperm production, libido, erectile dysfunction and impotence.
- Nervous system, including the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, parasympathetic nervous system, autonomic nervous system and sympathetic nervous system.
- Gastrointestinal problems relating to the esophagus, bowels and stomach.
- Endocrine system affecting liver, thyroid function and adrenal glands.
- Musculoskeletal system.
- Cardiovascular system.
- Respiratory system.
How to Take Rhodiola for Anxiety
When using Rhodiola Rosea supplements for stress and anxiety, the recommended dosage is between 288-680mg per day. Dosages of greater than 680 mg have not been found effective and should be avoided. This dosage can be split into two equal administrations during the day, but avoid taking the herb too late at night as this can cause difficulty sleeping.
You can buy Rhodiola pills online in single ingredient formats, or look for supplement stacks that combine multiple anti-anxiety herbs together for added benefits. Ensure that any supplement you use provides at least 3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides, which are the active ingredients found in Rhodiola extract.
Rhodiola Rosea Research
The term adaptogen was first coined by Russian pharmacist Nikoli Lazarev in 1947. Like many adaptogens, Rhodiola is said to positively affect the nervous system.
Intensive research into the medicinal effects of this herb began in the former Soviet Union when the Cold War was raging.
Unsurprisingly the studies performed at this time were of a top secret nature. With the end of the Cold War the results of studies began to leak through to the West. This was due to the intervention by Dr Zakir Ramazanov, a former soviet soldier.
He learned of the beneficial properties of the root when serving in Afghanistan. On returning to civilian life, he not only performed his own research, but also uncovered much of that undertaken during the Cold War.
The beneficial properties of the herb have been increasingly recognized since that time. In the last decade, Rhodiola Rosea has seen increasing interest from not only general populations but also from contemporary medicine. Numerous research studies into its effects not only in reducing anxiety but also in aiding other conditions have, and continue to be, carried out.
Different Varieties of Rhodiola Herbs
There are several different species of Rhodiola and not all of them will be effective for anxiety. This is because they do not all contain the same chemical constituents.
For example, many different kinds grow throughout Tibet, but none of these are believed to improve anxiety and other mood disorders. It is said that Emperors of China would initiate expeditions across the border into the Soviet Union to steal Rhodiola Rosea.
This is a wide range of clinical conditions which different species of Rhodiola are said to treat, depending on the specific attributes of the plant.
For example, it has long since been used in Chinese medicine as a treatment and preventative for colds and flu. In Mongolia, it has been used for diseases including Tuberculosis and cancers. In Russia, much research has been undertaken regarding its effectiveness in combating SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) and depression.
These different uses are likely due to differences in the chemical make-up of the various species of Rhodiola found in these geographic areas. When searching for supplements with rhodiola for anxiety and depression, it is advised to only buy products that contain Rhodiola Rosea extract.
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Article last updated on: May 10th, 2018 by Nootriment