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Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root, Roseroot) has been part of traditional healing systems in Asia since the time of Chinese emperors, who sent expeditions to Siberia to obtain it. Its therapeutic properties include a strong estrogen binding property. It also has properties of vasodilatation by activation of mu-opiate receptors in heart muscle, and it is a hypolipidemic, diminishing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The incorporation of this phytomedicine provides at least 20 active principles in a single therapeutic. The Vikings were reported to have used the herb to enhance their endurance, physical, and mental strength. Research has revealed that the roots of this plant contain powerful adaptogens--defined as substances that nonspecifically increase resistance to physical, mental, emotional, toxic, or environmental stress, without disturbing normal biological measurements or functions. Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root, Roseroot) consists mainly of phenylpropanoids (rosavin, rosin, rosarin (specific to R. rosea), phenylethanol derivatives (salidroside, rhodioloside, tyrosol), flavanoids (catechins, proanthocyanidins, rodiolin, rodionin, rodiosin, acetylrodalgin, tricin), monoterpenes (rosiridol, rosaridin), triterpenes (daucosterol, beta-sitosterol), and phenolic acids (chlorogenic and hydroxycinnamic, gallic acids). It also contains organic acids (gallic, caffeic, and chlorogenic acids) and p-Tyrosol. Rhodiola rosea extract has ability to activate the enzyme called hormone sensitive lipase. Studies have shown that the combination of Rhodiola rosea extract together with physical exercise can be a powerful tool in the activation of this lipase enzyme, resulting in enhanced breakdown of stored fat.

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