Rhodiola rosea
Rhodiola rosea (golden root): what the plant is, what rosavins and salidroside on the label mean and how to choose an extract.
This substance has no health claim authorised in the European Union. So we describe what it is and how it is taken, but do not say what it does in the body.
What it is
Rhodiola rosea (golden root, roseroot) is a perennial of cold mountain and northern regions: Scandinavia, the Alps, Siberia, the Altai. Its root has long had a place in northern folk culture, and in Norway and Iceland the young shoots were eaten as a vegetable.
Rhodiola has no authorised health claims in the European Union: claims for plants have been under review for years. So we do not write about stress, tiredness or endurance; we describe the plant and how to compare extracts.
How to read the label
Rhodiola rosea extracts are standardised to rosavins (usually 3 %) and salidroside (usually 1 %) — the ratio in which they occur in this species' root. Rosavins are specific to Rhodiola rosea, so stating them speaks for the species' authenticity. Products standardised to salidroside alone may be made from other rhodiola species.
How it is taken, and precautions
The extract is usually taken in the morning, as the pack directs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with bipolar disorder, and anyone on antidepressants or blood-pressure or diabetes medicines should ask a doctor first.
Frequently asked questions
What do 3 % rosavins and 1 % salidroside mean?
It is the extract's standardisation. That ratio is typical of Rhodiola rosea root and lets you compare products.
Why is it called golden root?
For the colour of the cut root and its value in northern folk culture.
When should it be taken?
Usually in the morning. Follow the directions on the pack.
Products with rhodiola rosea
