WomenSense Rhodiola - 60 V-Caps

Rhodiola

Rhodiola rosea has been studied extensively and has been categorized as an adaptogen because of its ability to increase resistance to a variety of chemical, biological and physical stressors. It is a popular plant native to Asia and Europe, with a reputation for supporting the nervous system by inhibiting the depletion of important brain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine during times of stress. Studies in Russia suggest that Rhodiola has great benefit in conditions where there is a decline in work performance, poor appetite, sleep disturbances, irritability and fatigue. Some studies have found that medical students given Rhodiola during exams report improved concentration and performance, as well as enhanced well-being, improved sleep and greater mood stability. In addition to enhancing mood and better sleep, Rhodiola can also help decrease episodes of worry and nervousness supporting the body to function more efficiently under stressful situations.

Rhodiola rosea, meaning the golden root, is the new wonder plant. It is considered an adaptogenic herb, meaning it aids the body in adapting to physical, biological, emotional or environmental stressors. Rhodiola has been used for centuries to combat fatigue by increasing physical endurance and exercise performance, as well as speed recovery from illness.

Rhodiola grows across the Arctic, the mountains of Central Asia, the Rockies, the Alps, the Pyrenees, the Carpathian Mountains, Scandinavia, Iceland, Great Britain and Ireland.

When we think of stress we commonly think of mental-emotional ramifications such as changes in mood, anxiety and depression, which Rhodiola has been shown to effectively treat. Stress however, can have many forms and numerous consequences on the body. Research also shows a significant benefit to using Rhodiola in cases of physiological and biological stress, such as in the treatment of altitude sickness, and protective for the liver against damage due to chemotherapy. Women are finding it beneficial in regulating the menstrual cycle, treating amenorrhea and enhancing fertility. In higher doses, Rhodiola has been shown to have a sedative effect and aid in achieving a deeper sleep. Some individuals however, may find it interferes with sleep. You may need to experiment to see which time of day is most suitable for you in terms of supplementation.

Stress

Stress is usually thought of as a negative factor in our daily lives but it is necessary part of life. Without stress life becomes boring. The key to stress, as with everything else in life, is balance. Enough to keep you interested but not enough to become overwhelmed. Individuals have different thresholds for stress. What is seen as stressful to one person may not be stressful to another.

The stress response is the body's way of preparing for action. As our species evolved it kept us safe, allowing us to fight for survival, or to flee from dangerous situations. The sympathetic nervous system response involves increased heart rate, blood pressure and adrenal output, as well as increased blood flow to the brain, muscles, lungs and heart. Those organs that are not needed to fight or flee receive less blood flow, for example, the digestive organs. This response is very efficient for a short period of time but it is meant to be used sparingly.