Also known asRhodiola rosea, Rhodiola kirilowii, Rhodea rosiola, roseroot, and golden root.IntroductionRhodiola is a flowering perennial, growing in cold and arctic regionsaround the world. It can be found in a number of mountainous regions,including the Alps, Rockies, and Pyrenees. It grows on rocky groundbetween cracks and crevices, and is cold hardy. Rhodiola is dioecious,meaning that each plant is either male or female. It bears spikes ofblue-green leaves and a single yellow flower that blooms during thebrief arctic summer. In some village in Siberia, a bouquet of rhodiolaroots is still given to couples just prior to marriage to enhancefertility and to ensure the birth of healthy children.ConstituentsRosavin, rosin, rosarin and salidroside.Parts UsedRootTypical PreparationsTeas, tinctures, and encapsulations.SummaryThough the leaves may be eaten as a potherb, they are somewhatbitter, and most of the plant’s value comes from its medicinal roots.Rhodiola root is identified as an adaptogen within traditional herbalmedicine. It is an excellent herb for promoting psychologicalwell-being, and supporting a healthy, stable mood. It has been shown toalleviate occasional bouts of mild to moderate depression as well ascombat fatigue. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatoryproperties.PrecautionsA smaller dose of rhodiola is a stimulant, but a larger dose is asedative. If you are seeking a boost to your immune system or you aretreating depression, or altitude sickness, try thesmallest recommended dose first. If you are treating colds, flu, orstress, use a larger dose. Rhodiola is appropriate for depression, butit is not appropriate for bipolar disorder. Not recommended for usewhile pregnant.For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.