Rhodiola
Also known as arctic root, golden root, rhodiola, rhodiola rosea
Key takeaways
- Rhodiola formulations show efficacy and safety in treating ischemic heart disease (PMID: 25146085).
- Standardized extract SHR-5 is effective in treating subjects with stress-related fatigue (PMID: 19016404).
- Rhodiola rosea injections may assist in left ventricular remodeling and inflammation in HFrEF patients (PMID: 40098619).
What the research shows
AI-synthesized from 39 peer-reviewed sources · Updated 2025
Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb used to improve mental and physical performance and treat various cardiovascular conditions. Research generally suggests it is effective in reducing fatigue and supporting cardiovascular health, though evidence varies by application.
By condition
Fatigue and Stress
Moderate
Evidence suggests Rhodiola reduces stress-related fatigue and may improve performance under mental fatigue conditions.
Ischemic Heart Disease/Angina
Moderate
Meta-analyses indicate efficacy in treating ischemic heart disease and chronic stable angina, often as an adjuvant therapy.
High Altitude Disease
Moderate
Systematic reviews suggest Rhodiola crenulata extract is effective in treating acute high altitude disease.
Sports Performance
Weak
Results are mixed, with some evidence for improved strength and aerobic capacity, but overall systematic reviews show limited consistent impact.
Effective doses
Specific dose ranges were not detailed in the provided abstracts, though standardized extracts like SHR-5 are commonly utilized in clinical trials.
Safety & interactions
Generally considered safe; however, specific monitoring (such as liver function in combined therapies) and professional guidance are recommended for cardiovascular patients.
Limitations
Many studies are small-scale or based on specific regional populations (e.g., China), and there is a need for more large-scale, standardized RCTs to confirm sports performance claims.
Top-rated Rhodiola products
Ranked by safety score and evidence coverage
How it's sold
Data aggregated from 251 product labels
Research evidence
Showing top 10 of 39 sources, sorted by quality
**Yu et al., 2014** | Complement Ther Med | Meta Analysis Yu Lei, Qin Yongjie, ... Xiong Hongyan. The efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine, Rhodiola formulation in treating ischemic heart disease: a systematic review and meta-anal…
**Łuszczak et al., 2026** | Ann Agric Environ Med | Systematic Review Łuszczak Joanna, Kocki Janusz. Clinical evidence for the adaptogenic effects of Withania somnifera and Rhodiola rosea - A systematic review with molecular interpretation …
**Gao et al., 2025** | Front Pharmacol | Systematic Review Gao Zixuan, Liu Yaoyuan, ... Pang Wentai. Efficacy and safety of Rhodiola crenulata extract in the treatment of acute high altitude disease, based on studies involving populations i…
Objectives: This study aimed to explore the effects of four days of Rhodiola Rosea (RR) supplementation on bench-press and bench-pull exercises under resting or mental fatigue conditions in young healthy individuals. Methods: Eighteen parti…
**Cheng et al., 2020** | Sci Rep | Meta Analysis Cheng Jin-Quan, Shi Qing-Ping, ... Wang Can. Liver function monitoring: a prospective nested case-control study of Salvia miltiorrhiza polyphenol injection. Sci Rep. 2020-Feb-26;10(1):3538. d…
**Boyle et al., 2022** | Nutr Neurosci | Rct Boyle Neil Bernard, Billington Jac, ... Dye Louise. A combination of green tea, rhodiola, magnesium and B vitamins modulates brain activity and protects against the effects of induced social stre…
**Du et al., 2025** | Front Pharmacol | Systematic Review Du Xuqin, Wang Xiaorong, ... Ren Yi. Standardized Rhodiola rosea injection for left ventricular remodeling and inflammation in patients with HFrEF: a systematic review and meta-analy…
BACKGROUND: Rhodiola rosea (R. rosea) is grown at high altitudes and northern latitudes. Due to its purported adaptogenic properties, it has been studied for its performance-enhancing capabilities in healthy populations and its therapeutic …
**Man et al., 2020** | Front Pharmacol | Systematic Review Man Changfeng, Dai Zhe, Fan Yu. Dazhu Hongjingtian Preparation as Adjuvant Therapy for Unstable Angina Pectoris: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Pharmacol. 20…
**Frost et al., 2025** | Front Pharmacol | Systematic Review Frost Rachael, Zamri Aiman, ... Walters Kate. Understanding the research landscape of over-the-counter herbal products, dietary supplements, and medications evaluated for depressi…
Frequently asked questions
What is Rhodiola rosea and what is it used for?
Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to improve mental and physical performance and support cardiovascular health. Research generally suggests it may help reduce fatigue and manage stress-related conditions, though evidence varies by application.
Does Rhodiola rosea help with stress and fatigue?
Yes, there is moderate evidence suggesting Rhodiola reduces stress-related fatigue and may improve performance under mental fatigue conditions. Standardized extracts like SHR-5 have been shown to be effective in treating subjects with stress-related fatigue.
Can Rhodiola rosea treat heart conditions?
There is moderate evidence indicating efficacy in treating ischemic heart disease and chronic stable angina, often as an adjuvant therapy. However, specific monitoring and professional guidance are recommended for cardiovascular patients due to safety considerations.
Is Rhodiola rosea effective for high altitude sickness?
Research provides moderate evidence that Rhodiola crenulata extract is effective in treating acute high altitude disease. Systematic reviews support its use for this specific condition, distinguishing it from other applications where evidence may be weaker.
Does Rhodiola rosea improve sports performance?
The evidence for improved sports performance is weak, with research being mixed regarding its impact. While some studies suggest benefits for strength and aerobic capacity, overall systematic reviews show limited consistent impact on athletic performance.
What is the effective dose of Rhodiola rosea?
Specific dose ranges were not detailed in the provided evidence, though standardized extracts like SHR-5 are commonly utilized in clinical trials. Consumers should consult a healthcare provider to determine appropriate usage, as individual needs may vary.
Is Rhodiola rosea safe and are there any drug interactions?
Rhodiola is generally considered safe, but no drug interactions have been documented in the provided data. However, pregnant women, individuals on medications, and those with cardiovascular conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use, as specific monitoring may be required.
Who should avoid taking Rhodiola rosea?
Individuals with cardiovascular conditions should seek professional guidance before use, as monitoring such as liver function may be necessary in combined therapies. Additionally, because specific safety data for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals is not provided, they should consult a healthcare provider to avoid potential risks.