Rhodiola rosea is a root that has several demonstrated medicinal uses. It hasn't been studied specifically for fibromyalgia (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ME/CFS) but is shown to be effective at treating many symptoms of the conditions.
Research shows rhodiola may:
- Relieve stress, anxiety and fatigue
- Alleviate depression symptoms
- Boost memory and cognitive function
- Stimulate activity of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine
Rhodiola has anti-viral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and may increase exercise capacity. So far, we don’t know whether it's effective against post-exertional malaise.
The recommended dosage of rhodiola is between 100 and 300 mg a day. Because it can have a stimulating effect, it's best taken early in the day. High doses are sometimes associated with feeling jittery and causing an increased risk of side effects.
Rhodiola isn't available in foods, so it has to be taken as a supplement. In addition to capsule form, it's available as an extract and in medicinal teas.
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty sleeping
Rhodiola has effects similar to prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), so you shouldn't take them together. Taking rhodiola along with selective serotonin reputake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may increase risk of drowsiness. We don't yet know whether rhodiola is safe for children, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Back to Supplements for Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
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- Low Norepinephrine - Associated Symptoms & Treatment Options
- Low Dopamine - Associated Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Sources:
American Botanical Council. "Rhodiola rosea: A Phytomedicinal Overview"
The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2008;36(6):1209-17. "Antioxidant evaluation of three adoptogen extracts."
Clarocet. "Rhodiola Rosea"
Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. "Rhodiola rosea: A Versatile Adaptogen"
International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. 2004 Jun;14(3):298-307. "Acute Rhodiola rosea intake can improve endurance exercise performance."
Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2009 Mar 18;122(2):397-401. "Monoamine oxidase inhibition by Rhodiola rosea L. roots."
Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. 2007;61(5):343-8. "Clinical trial of Rhodiola rosea L. extract SHR-5 in the treatment of mild to moderate depression."
Phytotherapy research: PTR. 2009 Jan 16. (Epub ahead of print) "Anti-inflammatory activity of Rhodiola rosea - 'a second-generation adaptogen'"
Phytotherapy research: PTR. 2007 Jan;21(1):37-43. "Adaptogenic and central nervous system effects of single doses of 3% rosavin and1% salidroside Rhodiola rosea L. extract in mice."
