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Have you heard of Rhodiola? Today we are talking about what does Rhodiola to the body?

Until recently, I had never heard of this before. Then my brother, who is very into health and fitness, told me about it. He takes it and loves it! He told me I had to do a post on Chemistry Cachet!

So, I started researching!

What Does Rhodiola Do To The Body?

History

Rhodiola ,Rhodiola rosea, is a flowering plant that grows in arctic regions. It has been used for centuries in Siberia and Russia to relieve stress and facilitate focus. In fact, it was used to increase physical endurance with military in the extreme cold temperatures!

The Chemistry Behind Rhodiola

Rhodiola contains  a variety of polyphenols. The main polyphenols found in rhodiola are salidroside and tyrosol. The other components of rhodiola are glycosides (like rosavin which is important for rhodiola’s benefits), acids, essential oils, fats, alcohols, sugars, and proteins (as with all plants).

Scientist classify rhodiola as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are herbal medicines that help the body adapt to stress and normalize bodily functions. Along with being an adaptogen, it is also classified as an anti-fatigue and possibly an ant-aging compound. This is all due to the high anti-oxidant activity in the polyphenols tyrosol and salidroside.

So, What Does Rhodiola Do To The Body?

After looking at the chemistry, you can see how there are undeniable benefits of rhodiola due to the adaptogen activity. But, the question is what does that actually do for you??

Lowers Cortisol

My brother started taking it to see how it would lower cortisol, the stress hormone. Compounds that are classified as adaptogens basically help your body deal with stress. In turn, this lowers the cortisol levels in the body. According to my brother, this has been a noticeable benefit!

Increase Energy

Anti-oxidants help increase energy in the body. Rhodiola contains high levels of the polyphenols tyrosol and salidroside which helps energy levels by increasing your red blood cell count. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to your muscles. This improves endurance and performance!

Burn Fat

I also researched and found that rhodiola can burn fat! The glycoside rosavin improves glucose and lipid metabolism. Since rhodiola also lowers cortisol, it can also help your body burn fat more effectively.

Improve Mental Fatigue

Rhodiola can improve mental fatigue and clarity. The polyphenols and glycosides work together for mental focus. This also goes back to being an adaptogen and keeping the body in balance! 

Anti-inflammatory 

This study talks about using rhodiola as an anti-inflammatory. This study showed rhodiola to have an inhibitory effect against acute and subacute inflammation.

How to Use Rhodiola

The best way to use rhodiola is in capsule form. It is very easy to take! It’s important to try a smaller dose first to see how you feel on it. This is a great brand with a good dosage. My brother uses this one, but said it is pretty strong at 700mg, so start with a lower dose if you want.

Who Can Benefit?

This is a great option to try for athletes or exercisers. Anyone who struggles with stress can also benefit from rhodiola. 

Caution!

Remember to always check with your doctor before starting any supplements. They will make sure any medications you are using are safe to use with supplements!

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