Rhodiola Rosea

350mg

Clinically-studied adaptogen that modulates the HPA axis - blunting excess cortisol output without sedation. EMA-assessed for mental fatigue and stress. Standardisation ratio is critical: rosavins and salidroside must both be verified.

Category Cognitive & Stress
Dose 350mg
Form ≥3.0% rosavins / ≥1.0% salidroside - HPLC verified at source
Evidence Level Strong - EMA-assessed, multiple RCTs

Mechanism

Rhodiola rosea is a well-characterised adaptogen - a compound that increases non-specific resistance to stress without impairing normal function. Its primary mechanism involves modulation of the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis: blunting the cortisol stress response while maintaining alertness and cognitive function.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has assessed Rhodiola for mental fatigue and stress, giving it a positive opinion based on clinical evidence. The standardisation ratio is critical for efficacy - the two active compound classes (rosavins and salidroside) must both be verified by HPLC. Products with only rosavin standardisation are incomplete.

Key Benefits

  • Traditional Scandinavian and Siberian adaptogen, used for centuries
  • Standardised to ≥3% rosavins and ≥1% salidroside. The most-studied markers
  • Supports cognitive performance under stressful conditions
  • EMA-assessed for traditional use in stress and mental fatigue
  • Effects accumulate with consistent daily use

The Research

Peer-reviewed human trials supporting this ingredient at this dose.

Olsson EM, et al. (2009). Planta Med. 75(2):105-12.A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the standardised extract SHR-5 of the roots of Rhodiola rosea in the treatment of subjects with stress-related fatigue.PubMed →
Shevtsov VA, et al. (2003). Phytomedicine. 10(2-3):95-105.A randomized trial of two different doses of a SHR-5 Rhodiola rosea extract versus placebo and control of capacity for mental work.PubMed →
Ishaque S, et al. (2012). BMC Complement Altern Med. 12:70.Rhodiola rosea for physical and mental fatigue: a systematic review.PubMed →
Anghelescu IG, et al. (2018). Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract. 22(4):242-52.Stress management and the role of Rhodiola rosea: a review.PubMed →
In the formula

Rhodiola Rosea

350mg

≥3.0% rosavins / ≥1.0% salidroside - HPLC verified at source

When to take it

Morning or pre-stressful activity. Avoid taking in the evening - can be mildly stimulating. Consistent daily use produces strongest HPA axis modulation effects.

Works well with

Cognitive & Stress L-Theanine 200mg Cognitive & Stress Bacopa Monnieri 300mg Micronutrients Magnesium Bisglycinate 200mg elemental
Back to Formula