The Rhodiola rosea (commonly known as roseroot or golden root) has been part of European folk medicine since ancient times. It was used to increase work endurance, extend life span, and support resistance to a few health problems such as depression, fatigue, and altitude sickness.
Roseroot naturally grows in the cold arctic regions of Europe, but it can also be found in Asia (Russia) and Alaska. This interesting plant has a special place in the traditional folk medicine of several European countries – Sweden, Iceland, France, Greece, and Russia. Some sources confirm that Mongolians, Chinese royals, and Vikings used it too. The first written evidence about Rhodiola dates back to the first century AD when the famous Greek physician Dioscorides mentioned it in his book. In most folk medicines, Rhodiola rosea was used in the form of an herbal tea, although there were cases of external use too.
A recent publication (regarding roseroot properties) in Phytomedicine caught the attention of the public. The first results from the study led by Dr. Jun J. Mao, a professor of family medicine, epidemiology, and community health at the respected Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, confirm that herbal therapy provides positive effects in several people suffering from depression.
Roseroot Uses
As mentioned before, roseroot is used for many things. For example, many people use it to boost their energy, strength, stamina, and mental performance and as an adaptogen herb that can help the body resist chemical, physical, and environmental stress. In addition, some people use it to increase physical performance, speed up recovery time after exercise, in cases of depression, and for certain heart health issues like high levels of cholesterol and irregular heartbeat.
Some people use Rhodiola Rosea for preventing Kris Carr, diabetes, and tuberculosis; preventing flu and cold, liver damage and slowing down the process of aging; improving the immune and nervous system and improving hearing.
If you want to check some other roseroot uses, side effects, warnings, and interactions you can visit this WebMD link.
Rhodiola Rosea (Roseroot) Herbal Tea Recipe
- Make a combination of 1 tsp. (5 grams) of the root and one cup of boiling water.
- Cover the bowl and let the mixture steep for several minutes.
- Feel free to add some honey and other herbs if you want to.
- Strain the mixture carefully and drink about 1/5 cup of it diluted with water, other teas, or juice.
- Don’t add fillers or other similar products.
The following herbal tea recipe based on roseroot was shared by My Herb Clinic.
