The medicinal value of this herb was originally documented by a Greek Physician - Dioscorides in 77 CE. However, Rhodiola Rosea has also enjoyed a long history of being used as a foodstuff in Eastern European countries for generations, and continues today.

It has also gained a reputation as being a tool in the traditional medical systems in those counties as well; especially Russia and Scandinavia. It is thought that the Vikings used it to boost their overall strength and endurance; while Siberians would often trade it for a variety of valuable herbs, foods and materials. It is believed that the Chinese also sought it out because of its value as a medical herb. But why is Rhodiola Rosea so prized?

Rhodiola Rosea is often referred to as an “adaptogen”, which basically means that it is able to enhance the body’s natural abilities of endurance. It is purported to be able to increase the body’s ability to respond to stressors. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments such as exhaustion, anemia, gastrointestinal ailments, impotence, infections, nervous system disorders and depression.

This herb has also been used in Asian countries to resolve some medical issues. For instance, Mongolian doctors have used it to treat cancer and Tuberculosis in patients. It can be used for so many different ailments because “adaptogens” are believed to be very versatile herbs in folk medicine.

Recently much of the excitement around this herb has centered on its mood elevating abilities. Many individuals are seeking holistic alternatives to help address issues around depression and anxiety. It has been suggested that Rhodiola Rosea may have some effect on the amount of Serotonin and Dopamine produced in the body, which may have an influence on certain peptides, which directly affect the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.

Not surprisingly much of the research that has been conducted on this herb has been done in Russia and Scandinavia; little is known about this element in the US for a variety of reasons. Currently research is underway in the US to ascertain what this herbal extract can really provide to users, especially those who are suffering with a mood disorder.

Until the results are in regarding this herbs ability to help with mood issues, some consumers may be interested in noting that there are many holistically based mood enhancers available on the market, which have been proven to be able to provide real results.

For instance, the mineral Lithium, which should not be confused with the commonly known pharmaceutical synthetic version, has been shown to be useful for individuals who want to attain a more balanced psyche and increased mental functioning, with no side effects.

• Herbal extract
• Inexpensive

• Modern research still pending
• No free trial sample available
• Does not utilize the natural mineral lithium

Clearly, for those who are seeking some peace of mind, relief from mood issues and improved mental functioning, a holistically based supplement may be extremely helpful. Rhodiola Rosea may eventually be proven to have some ability to enhance mood in users, however, the studies already in have shown that the usefulness of this herb is species specific, and it can be rather difficult to ascertain that you are getting the correct one.

Frankly, sorting out all the choices available in this area can be both frustrating and overwhelming. Many consumers have been seeking out products which use the naturally occurring mineral Lithium; because studies have revealed that through slowly increasing the levels of Lithium in the body mood swings and other mood related issues can be relieved; very often bringing calm and peace of mind.