Rhodiola rosea as an adaptogen to enhance exercise performance: a review of the literature

Abstract

Rhodiola rosea (RR) is a plant whose bioactive components may function as adaptogens, thereby increasing resistance to stress and improving overall resilience. Some of these effects may influence exercise performance and adaptations. Based on studies of rodents, potential mechanisms for the ergogenic effects of RR include modulation of energy substrate stores and use, reductions in fatigue and muscle damage, and altered antioxidant activity. At least 16 investigations in humans have explored the potential ergogenicity of RR. These studies indicate acute RR supplementation (∼200 mg RR containing ∼1% salidroside and ∼3% rosavin, provided 60 minutes before exercise) may prolong time-to-exhaustion and improve time trial performance in recreationally active males and females, with limited documented benefits of chronic supplementation. Recent trials providing higher doses (∼1,500 to 2,400 mg RR/day for 4 to 30 days) have demonstrated ergogenic effects during sprints on bicycle ergometers and resistance training in trained and untrained adults. The effects of RR on muscle damage, inflammation, energy system modulation, antioxidant activity, and perceived exertion are presently equivocal. Collectively, it appears that adequately dosed RR enhances dimensions of exercise performance and related outcomes for select tasks. However, the current literature does not unanimously show that RR is ergogenic. Variability in supplementation dose and duration, concentration of bioactive compounds, participant characteristics, exercise tests, and statistical considerations may help explain these disparate findings. Future research should build on the longstanding use of RR and contemporary clinical trials to establish the conditions in which supplementation facilitates exercise performance and adaptations.

The Role of Rosavin in the Pathophysiology of Bone Metabolism

“…Current international studies have focused on the individual impact of each of these substances on osteogenesis. However, it is worth noting that both of these compounds occur together in nature as components of Rhodiola rosea root and, as mentioned, have been taken together orally as a dietary supplement or adaptogens for many years [2][3][4]. Since research shows that rosavin and salidroside taken separately have anti-osteoporotic effects [57][58][59], it is necessary to determine whether the combined action of these substances undergoes an additive effect or whether some biological actions of rosavin and salidroside counteract each other.…”

“…It has been used in traditional medicine for over 2000 years as an adaptogen, increasing the body's immunity and adaptive capabilities in unfavorable environmental conditions. Rhodiola rosea stimulates the nervous system, improves physical endurance, reduces fatigue, and has antidepressant and antiinflammatory properties [1][2][3][4][5]. This plant requires specific growing conditions and occurs naturally in specified regions of the Earth, especially in Northern Europe, Northern Asia (Siberia), and North America [6].…”

Vegetable and other adaptogens with actoprotectory properties (phytodrugs and food supplements)

“…3) to support performance during performance and recovery during heavy physical exertion (Lu, 2022;Tinsley, 2023;Liu, 2023).…”

Characterization of the complete chloroplast genome of Rhodiola sachalinensis and comparative analysis with its congeneric plants

“…Among them, representative compounds include salidroside, tyrosol, rosavin and phenylpropanoids. Rhodiola species have demonstrated remarkable effects in combating fatigue [8], improving microcirculation [9], boosting immune function [10] and retarding the aging process. The medicinal plants of the genus of Rhodiola are utilized in the form of decoctions, drugs and extracts.…”