Is there a wonder herb that can increase physical endurance, attention span, work productivity and longevity? And at the same time help fight fatigue, depression, decreased memory, anaemia, impotence, gastrointestinal ailments, infections and nervous system disorders? For centuries a little known wonder herb, which could be used as an immune-support tonic, remained hidden. It was treasured by people living in remote areas of the Northern hemisphere, who braved the bitter cold and high altitude conditions. In Siberia it was believed that drinking tea made from this herb could help you live for 100 years. In Mongolia it was used for treating tuberculosis and cancer. There are stories of how ancient Chinese emperors would send secret emissaries to Siberia to bring back this wonder herb. The Vikings, during their sea-faring voyages, may also have used this herb to build strength and endurance. It was only in the 60s, when G.V. Krylov, a Russian botanist in the Russian Academy of Sciences, led an expedition to the Altai Mountains of southern Siberia, that the ‘Golden Root’ or Rhodiola rosea was finally located. Thereafter, when scientists from the erstwhile Soviet Union collaborated with Scandinavian and American universities, Golden Root began to surface in public view. A November 2003 report in Newsweek magazine carried an interview with Dr. Ramazanov, which was followed by a flurry of further studies. Most studies have confirmed the wide-ranging benefits of this herb; and it seems to have minimal or no side effects. A 2011 review of 11 well-designed placebo-controlled human studies concluded that Rhodiola benefits our physical performance, mental performance and certain mental health conditions. Protagonists of Rhodiola are now calling it the most favoured herb for those suffering from ‘21st Century Stress’ fatigue, mental fog poor concentration, low energy and mild depression.
In addition to mood elevation, evidence indicates that Rhodiola rosea has numerous other benefits, including enhancement of the cognitive function, sexual function, and both mental and physical performance under stress. This is why it is considered to be an adaptogen - a natural substance that helps normalise the body's response to stress, and at the same time maintains optimal balance between the immune system, hormones and the Central Nervous System. The best example of ‘adaptogenic activity’ is to eat right, exercise regularly and to generally live a life of balance and moderation. This invariably increases physical fitness and the ability to resist illnesses of all types. Amongst the better known herbs that act as adaptogens, are ginseng, ashwagandha, reishi, suma and rhodiola.
Tip of the Week
Preparing Rhodiola Tea is easy. Take one teaspoon of Rhodiola Root and steep it in a cup of boiling water for five minutes; then strain and drink. Rhodiola supplements are best taken early in the day, to avoid any interference with sleep.
Nature's Wonder Food of the Week: Golden Root - Rhodiola rosea
Golden Root is also known by several other names. Some of these are Rose Root, Arctic Root and Tibetan Ginseng. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is called Hóng jǐng tiān. The adaptogenic activity of Rhodiola helps increase resistance to adverse influences of a wide range of harmful factors of a physical, chemical and biological nature, and also helps normalise key neurotransmitter balance. It modulates cortisol (stress hormone) production during times of physical or emotional duress. Like other adaptogens, Rhodiola can enhance thyroid function without causing hyperthyroidism. The key constituents that yield the benefits of Rhodiola are rosavins (rosarin, rosavin, rosin) and salidroside. Most Rhodiola supplements are made from the rugged, pale root, which contains a dark aromatic sap – and emits a rose-like aroma. As most of the studies till date have been done with Rhodiola extracts having a 3:1 ratio (rosavins to salidrosides), it is important to source the right variety of Rhodiola and check for its potency. Other varieties of Rhodiola (e.g. rhodantha and alsia) might be better known for their use in cosmetics, rather than for any medicinal properties. Rhodiola consumption is considered safe when taken for periods of 6 to 10 weeks. Ideally, Rhodiola extracts should not be mixed with anti-depressant drugs. Always take the advice of your medical practitioner.
Recently Indian scientists working with the Institute of Defence Studies in the upper reaches of the Himalayas have discovered a similar wonder herb, and have been tempted to call it the re-discovery of 'Sanjeevani' - a mythical herb that is supposed to have given a new life to Ramaís brother Lakshmana in the epic Ramayana. The people in the Ladakh valley call it 'Solo', and botanically it appears to be a closely related species to 'Golden Root'.
For Education purposes only; always consult a Healthcare Practitioner for medical conditions
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