By Philippe Mathelet
Rhodiola: a golden root
The plant has an incredible effect on fatigue and physical performance both during exertion and recovery. It also acts on general well-being, both physical and mental.
Rhodiola: the plant against all fatigue
Rhodiola rosea is a small perennial plant native to the circumpolar regions of Asia, Europe and North America.
Its natural habitat is therefore Siberia, Scandinavia, Alaska, Greenland. It is also found in Europe, in the Alpine massif at high altitude, in screes and rock crevices.
This plant is therefore able to withstand extreme climatic conditions. It draws from its environment astonishing adaptive properties which it confers to the human body.
The reputation of rhodiola led Chinese emperors to organise annual expeditions to Siberia to bring back this precious "golden root".
Legend has it that in Scandinavia, the Vikings drew their strength and bravery from this plant.
Rhodiola belongs to the family of sedums, houseleeks and orpins.
Its stem grows to about thirty centimetres high and its flowers are red or yellow. It is the underground part of the plant that ensures its survival, a thick rhizome which emits a pleasant scent of rose and violet. Active compounds are found there, notably rosavin.
The plant has a powerful action against fatigue and physical performance both during exertion and recovery.
It also acts on general well-being, physical and mental.
It stimulates intellectual performance, it promotes attention and memory capacity and regulates mood.
Rhodiola is therefore a precious ally in situations of stress, in cases of physical and mental fatigue as well as for all convalescents.
It is no coincidence that it has long been used by Russian cosmonauts to better withstand extreme living conditions.
So, discover and enjoy the benefits of Rhodiola.
These articles are for information only and are neither medical advice, nor a diagnosis, nor a prescription.
The articles in this section reflect the experience and reading of their author, who does not practise any medical profession. They are published for information and never replace a consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Food supplements are not medicines. If you are under treatment, pregnant, breastfeeding or ill, ask a health professional before any use.