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Rhodiola
rosea: a possible plant adaptogen
Kelly GS
Rhodiola rosea is a popular plant in traditional medical systems in
Eastern Europe and Asian with a reputation for stimulating the nervous system,
decreasing depression, enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue, and
preventing high altitude sickness.
Rhodiola rosea has been categorized as an adaptogen by Russian researchers due
to its observed ability to increase resistance to a variety of chemical,
biological, and physical stressors.
Its claimed benefits include antidepressant, anticancer, cardioprotective, and
central nervous system enhancement.
Research also indicates great utility in asthenic conditions (decline in work
performance, sleep difficulties, poor appetite, irritability, hypertension,
headaches, and fatigue) developing subsequent to intense physical or
intellectual strain.
The adaptogenic, cardiopulmonary protective, and central nervous system
activities of Rhodiola rosea have been attributed primarily to its ability to
influence levels and activity of monoamines and opioid peptides such as
beta-endorphins.
PMID:
11410073 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
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