How Long Does It Take for Rhodiola Rosea to Work?

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How Long Does It Take for Rhodiola Rosea to Work?

Rhodiola rosea field

As with many dietary supplements, especially nootropics, it's critical to understand how long it takes to feel their beneficial effects. Many people use nootropics or comparable supplements to enhance their cognitive function. Achieving this goal is best done in the hours leading up to a moment when mental performance is essential, such as an exam, a competition, or an important meeting at work.

Research shows that Rhodiola rosea begins to act within 30 minutes of ingestion, resulting in a nearly immediate increase in mental energy and improved cognitive performance (4). Even better, the effects of this fascinating plant may continue for 4 to 6 hours, making it an invaluable resource for dealing with stressful situations (5).

However, the timeline of its effects may vary based on individual body chemistry. Research suggests its benefits may surface between a few days and a couple of weeks following routine Rhodiola rosea supplementation (2).

What Is Rhodiola Rosea?

Imagine a plant that thrives in the most unforgiving conditions, harbouring the key to overcoming the stresses of daily life. Welcome to the intriguing world of Rhodiola rosea, commonly known as 'golden root' or 'arctic root', a vivid perennial flowering plant native to frigid, mountainous regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Valued for its adaptogenic properties, our ancestors have revered Rhodiola rosea for ages for its ability to help the body resist environmental, physical and mental stressors (1).

Rhodiola rosea often appears in top-tier nootropic supplements, such as Brain Focus by BesaPure®, owing to its powerful effects on brain support, protection, and vital capacity to fight mental fatigue. Its contributions to optimal cognitive performance and fostering a tranquil state of mind further enhance its prominence as a valuable element in these formulations.

What Does Rhodiola Rosea Do?

Rhodiola rosea's effects derive from its ability to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, hence aiding in maintaining a healthy stress response (6). Furthermore, the herb's appeal stems from its impacts on neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, all of which play essential roles in mood regulation, cognitive performance, and overall well-being (7).

The numerous advantages of Rhodiola rosea and their underlying mechanisms are worth investigating, so let's begin.

Rhodiola Rosea As An Adaptogen

As an adaptogen, Rhodiola rosea promotes a balanced physiological response to stress by assisting the body in maintaining homeostasis in the face of numerous stressors (1). Through its influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, Rhodiola rosea helps regulate the body's stress response, promoting resilience and vitality in the face of life's challenges and increased stress (8).

Alleviating Physical and Mental Fatigue Symptoms

Rhodiola rosea's allure extends to alleviating both physical and mental exhaustion symptoms. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing fatigue and improving mental performance, even in individuals experiencing stress induced fatigue (2). Its distinct combination of active compounds, like rosavins and salidroside, contributes to these rejuvenating properties (9).

A Natural Remedy For Depressive Symptoms

Rhodiola rosea's appeal also lies in its prospect as a natural remedy for depression. Studies have demonstrated that patients suffering from mild to moderate depression experienced significant improvements when ministered with Rhodiola rosea extract (10).

Rhodiola extract boosts emotional well-being and equilibrium by optimising neurotransmitter levels such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine (7).

Enhancing Mental & Physical Performance

Unleash your full potential by embracing Rhodiola rosea's profound effect on mental and physical performance. Studies have demonstrated that this incredible herb can strengthen memory retention, improve focus, and boost cognitive function (11). But Rhodiola rosea does more than that; it also enhances your physical prowess by increasing energy and endurance exercise performance while reducing recovery time after strenuous workouts (12).

What Is The Best Rhodiola Rosea Extract & Dosage?

You can expect many health benefits as you continue your adventure with Rhodiola rosea, a plant with strong roots in traditional medicine (3). Studies show Rhodiola supplementation can normalise physiological processes, increase mental performance, and assist the body's stress system (1).

Using the ideal dosage and extract ratio is vital to take advantage of this powerful herb's potential fully. Improved mental performance, decreased weariness, and a sense of serenity in the face of stress are distinct benefits of taking an advanced standardised extract containing active components in specific ratios; 3% rosavins and 1% salidroside (2). When in their ideal proportions specified above, these compounds are responsible for many of the proposed health benefits of Rhodiola rosea.

The optimal daily dosage of Rhodiola rosea varies according to individual needs and goals. Some studies show that as little as 50 mg daily may be sufficient to avoid fatigue and improve overall well-being (13). Other research indicates that a daily supplement of 170 mg of Rhodiola rosea (3% rosavins, 1% salidroside) can enhance mental function and minimise fatigue in night shift physicians (2). Another study found that daily supplementation of 576 mg of Rhodiola rosea (3% rosavins, 1% salidroside) reduced stress symptoms like anxiety and sleep disturbances after just three days (14).

For best results, you may take 100–600 mg of a standardised Rhodiola rosea extract with 3% rosavins and 1% salidroside daily (9). However, as responses may differ, speaking with a medical expert is crucial to identify the best dosage for your needs.

What Is The Best Way to Take Rhodiola rosea?

While Rhodiola rosea is effective as a standalone supplement, combining it with other natural superfoods in a synergistic formula is the best way to realise its full potential (1). Brain Focus by BesaPure® is a natural nootropic stack that combines advanced forms of Rhodiola rosea, Bacopa monnieri, Ginkgo biloba, and Centella asiatica, enhancing each herb's advantages and providing unrivalled cognitive enhancement.

Research shows that Rhodiola rosea begins to act within 30 minutes of ingestion, resulting in a nearly immediate increase in mental energy and improved cognitive performance (4).

With Brain Focus, you can experience the power of Rhodiola rosea's adaptogenic properties, complemented by the memory-enhancing effects of Bacopa monnieri, the blood-flow boosting benefits of Ginkgo biloba, and the anti-anxiety properties of Centella asiatica (15,16,17). These potent ingredients work harmoniously to create a comprehensive formula that targets cognitive function, mental clarity, and focus while keeping stress and fatigue at bay.

Get rid of stress-related fatigue with Brain Focus by BesaPure®.

Bottom Line

Rhodiola has earned its reputation as a top-tier adaptogenic herb, prized for relieving mental fatigue and managing life stress symptoms. Its power as a cognitive enhancer and stress reducer is uncontested, solidifying its place in traditional and modern wellness practices.

Supplementing with Rhodiola extract has a host of potential benefits. These include relieving stress and anxiety, stabilising mood swings, and improving mental and physical performance under intellectually taxing conditions. Rhodiola appears to hold promise for those grappling with moderate depression, thanks to its natural antidepressant properties.

Administering Rhodiola extract in doses ranging from 288-680mg is recommended to fully experience its powerful anti-fatigue and stress-reducing attributes. This dosage also aligns with studies showcasing Rhodiola's potential as an adjunct to conventional antidepressant medication.

Once ingested, Rhodiola may kick in within 30 minutes, maintaining its immediate effects for 3-4 hours. This quick response is because of Rhodiola's mildly stimulating nature and water-soluble features.

Rhodiola rosea also has the potential to bolster your body's ability to handle physical stressors, with studies indicating its positive impact on anaerobic exercise performance.

The optimal approach to consuming Rhodiola rosea combines it with other advanced cognitive-enhancing ingredients, like what we have intentionally formulated for Brain Focus by BesaPure®.

Discover Brain Focus today!

References

1. Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of adaptogens on the central nervous system and the molecular mechanisms associated with their stress—protective activity. Pharmaceuticals, 3(1), 188-224. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph3010188

2. Darbinyan, V., Kteyan, A., Panossian, A., Gabrielian, E., Wikman, G., & Wagner, H. (2000). Rhodiola rosea in stress induced fatigue—A double blind cross-over study of a standardized extract SHR-5 with a repeated low-dose regimen on the mental performance of healthy physicians during night duty. Phytomedicine, 7(5), 365-371. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0944-7113(00)80055-0

3. Brown, R. P., Gerbarg, P. L., & Ramazanov, Z. (2002). Rhodiola rosea: A phytomedicinal overview. HerbalGram, 56, 40-52. Retrieved from http://cms.herbalgram.org/herbalgram/issue56/article2333.html

4. Jafari, M., Felgner, J. S., Bussel, I. I., Hutchili, T., Khodayari, B., Rose, M. R., & Vince-Cruz, C. (2017). Rhodiola: a promising anti-aging Chinese herb. Rejuvenation Research, 20(6), 573-584. https://doi.org/10.1089/rej.2016.1880

5. Lekomtseva, Y., Zhukova, I., & Wacker, A. (2017). Rhodiola rosea in subjects with prolonged or chronic fatigue symptoms: results of an open-label clinical trial. Complementary Medicine Research, 24(1), 46-52. https://doi.org/10.1159/000464342

6. Panossian, A., & Wagner, H. (2005). Stimulating effect of adaptogens: an overview with particular reference to their efficacy following single dose administration. Phytotherapy Research, 19(10), 819-838. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1751

7. van Diermen, D., Marston, A., Bravo, J., Reist, M., Carrupt, P. A., & Hostettmann, K. (2009). Monoamine oxidase inhibition by Rhodiola rosea L. roots. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 122(2), 397-401. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2009.01.007

8. Olsson, E. M., von Schéele, B., & Panossian, A. G. (2009). A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled parallel group study of SHR-5 extract of Rhodiola rosea roots as treatment for patients with stress-related fatigue. Planta Medica, 75(2), 105-112. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0028-1088346

9. Ishaque, S., Shamseer, L., Bukutu, C., & Vohra, S. (2012). Rhodiola rosea for physical and mental fatigue: a systematic review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 12(1), 70. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-12-70

10. Mao, J. J., Xie, S. X., Zee, J., Soeller, I., Li, Q. S., Rockwell, K., & Amsterdam, J. D. (2015). Rhodiola rosea versus sertraline for major depressive disorder: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. Phytomedicine, 22(3), 394-399. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2015.01.010

11. Spasov, A. A., Mandrikov, V. B., & Mironova, I. A. (2000). The effect of the preparation Rodaxon on the psychophysiological and physical adaptation of students to an academic load. Eksperimental’naia i Klinicheskaia Farmakologiia, 63(1), 76-78. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10884286/

12. De Bock, K., Eijnde, B. O., Ramaekers, M., & Hespel, P. (2004). Acute Rhodiola rosea intake can improve endurance exercise performance. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 14(3), 298-307. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.14.3.298

13. Hung, S. K., Perry, R., & Ernst, E. (2011). The effectiveness and efficacy of Rhodiola rosea L.: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Phytomedicine, 18(4), 235-244. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2010.08.014

14. Bystritsky, A., Kerwin, L., & Feusner, J. D. (2008). A pilot study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax) for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(2), 175-180. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2007.7117

15. Kongkeaw, C., Dilokthornsakul, P., Thanarangsarit, P., Limpeanchob, N., & Scholfield, C. N. (2014). Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on cognitive effects of Bacopa monnieri extract. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 151(1), 528-535. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2013.11.008

16. Ahlemeyer, B., & Krieglstein, J. (2003). Pharmacological studies supporting the therapeutic use of Ginkgo biloba extract for Alzheimer’s disease. Pharmacopsychiatry, 36(Suppl. 1), S8-S14. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2003-40454

17. Puttarak, P., Dilokthornsakul, P., Saokaew, S., Dhippayom, T., & Kongkaew, C. (2017). Effects of Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. on cognitive function and mood related outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Scientific Reports, 7(1), 10646. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-09823-9