Rhodiola rosea roots beneficial properties. Rhodiola rosea extract - instructions for use, beneficial properties. Rhodiola rosea infographics

Rhodiola rosea L.
Taxon: Crassulaceae family
Common names: golden root, pink root.
English: Stonecrop

Description:
Golden root or Rhodiola rosea is a perennial medicinal herb up to 40 cm high. The rhizome is thick, with thin adventitious roots, brownish, the color of bronze or ancient gilding with a peculiar pearlescent sheen. The popular name “golden root” comes from this color. The weight of a perennial rhizome can reach 500-800 g or more. The stems are numerous (up to 10-15 pieces), less often solitary, erect, unbranched, usually 10-40 cm high. The leaves are sessile, oblong-ovate, elliptical or almost lanceolate, pointed, serrated-toothed in the upper part along the edge. The inflorescence is corymbose, multi-flowered. The flowers are unisexual, the sepals are yellow-green, the petals are yellow. In male flowers, the stamens are longer than the petals. The fruits are erect greenish leaflets. Rhodiola rosea blooms in June - July, the fruits ripen in July - August. Propagates vegetatively (by rhizome segments). Seed propagation is of less importance, but seed productivity is high - one generative shoot produces up to 900 seeds. Rhodiola rosea is a moisture-demanding plant; it requires abundant but flowing moisture, and is less demanding of heat and light.

Spreading:
Grows in the Altai mountains, Eastern Siberia, the Urals, and the Far East. More often, Rhodiola rosea is found scattered in the northeastern Altai in the alpine belt at the boundaries of altitudes from 1500 to 2500 m above sea level, where its massive thickets can be found. Thus, in the Priteletsky district there are areas where there are up to 60 thousand specimens of golden root per 1 hectare. More than 1500 kg of rhizomes can be collected from this area. In the conditions of central Europe it produces two growing seasons. The plant is included in the Red Book of Russia.

Collection and preparation:
Medicinal preparations of Rhodiola rosea are made from the roots and rhizomes of the plant. They are stored from the end of flowering to the end of the growing season of Rhodiola. Only young plants with 1 - 2 stems are not harvested.
The roots of the plant are dug up, the soil is cleared from them, then they are washed in cold running water and dried in the shade. Then the roots of the plant are cut into pieces 2 to 10 cm long and dried in dryers at a temperature of 50-60ºC; drying in the sun is not allowed.
The finished raw material of Rhodiola rosea is golden on the outside, and pink-brown at the break. In addition, Rhodiola rosea has a bitter - astringent taste and smell, similar to the smell of a rose.
The shelf life of finished raw materials is 36 months.

Chemical composition:
The roots and rhizomes of Rhodiola contain tannins of the pyrogallic group (up to 20%), anthraglycosides, essential oil, organic acids (oxalic, citric, malic, gallic, succinic), a significant amount of sugars, proteins, fats, waxes, sterols, tertiary alcohols, glycosides , flavonoids and a large amount of manganese.
Rhizomes with roots contain: ash - 11.42%; macroelements (mg/g): K - 5.70, Ca - 10-80, Mg - 1.70, Fe - 0.80; trace elements (CBN): Mg - 0.13, Cu - 0.08, Zn - 0.16, Mo -2.00, Cr - 0.11, Al - 0.54, Ba - 0.15, V - 0 .49, Se - 26.00, Ni - 0.28, Sr - 0.38, Pb - 0.04, I - 0.15. B - 33.60 µg/g. Co, Cd, Au, Ag, Br were not detected. Concentrates Mo, Se, Fe.

Pharmacological properties:
The plant is not much inferior to ginseng in its medicinal properties. For many centuries, Rhodiola rosea has been used in folk medicine of Altai as a remedy that increases mental and physical performance. People have long said: “Whoever finds the golden root will be lucky and healthy until the end of his days, and will live for two centuries.”
Rhodiola preparations have a pronounced stimulating property and significantly increase the volume of dynamic and static work. Performance increases especially noticeably when using drugs against the background of fatigue and when performing heavy work. At the same time, Rhodiola rosea normalizes metabolic processes, promotes economical consumption of energy resources and their rapid resynthesis, improves energy metabolism in muscles and brain due to oxidative processes associated with phosphorylation, earlier use of not only carbohydrates, but also lipids as oxidation substrates.
Rhodiola preparations have a stimulating effect on a person’s mental performance and somewhat improve memory and attention.

Application in medicine:
Underground part. The alcohol extract is used as a central nervous system stimulant for asthenic and neurasthenic conditions, increased fatigue, decreased performance, vegetative-vascular dystonia, and functional diseases of the nervous system. It is superior to Eleutherococcus in its stimulating effect. In Tibetan medicine - for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. In Mongolian medicine - for pulmonary tuberculosis, bone fractures, skin diseases; as an antipyretic, tonic; externally (in the form of lotions, ointments) - for the treatment of wounds. In folk medicine, decoction, tincture - for metro and menorrhagia, diarrhea, fevers, headaches, scurvy, to relieve fatigue and increase performance, for respiratory infections, for gout (as a diuretic), diabetes, scrofulosis, stomach diseases, anemia, pulmonary tuberculosis, liver diseases, toothache, impotence. Externally (poultices, lotions) - for conjunctivitis, abscesses, skin rashes; for lubricating the gums - for pyorrhea. Juice - early cleanser; with jaundice.
Aboveground part. Decoction, lotions - for trachoma.

Medications:
Infusion.
Pour 10 g of Rhodiola rosea rhizomes with a glass of boiling water, leave for 4 hours, filter. Drink half a glass 2-3 times a day.

Tincture.
Pour crushed rhizomes of Rhodiola rosea with 40% alcohol in a ratio of 1:5. Use 20 minutes before meals three times a day, 10-15 drops.

Pharmaceuticals:
Rhodiola extract liquid(Extractum Rhodiolae fluidum) take 5-10 drops 2-3 times a day 15-30 minutes before meals. The course of treatment is 10-20 days. In psychiatric practice, it is prescribed starting with 10 drops 2-3 times a day, then the dose is gradually increased to 30-40 drops per dose. Duration of treatment is 1-2 months. Golden root extract is stored in a cool, dark place.

Contraindications:
Rhodiola rosea preparations are contraindicated in feverish conditions, hypertensive crises, and increased excitability. If signs of agitation, insomnia and headache appear, stop taking Rhodiola medications.

Photos and illustrations:

Rhodiola rosea

Good day, dear guests of the site! The medicinal properties and contraindications of Rhodiola rosea are described here. This is a perennial herb that grows up to half a meter.

The rhizome with brown bark reaches a weight of up to 2.5 kg. The plant prefers to grow on the rocky terrain of the tundra, in the Far East, in the Siberian expanses. People also call radiolu the golden root.

Collection and preparation of Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola rhizome is used for treatment. It is harvested in August and September, when the plant stops blooming. The root is dug up for the first time 4 years after planting.

The dug up root is cleared of soil and washed with running water. Then the rhizome is cut into thin slices about 5 cm long. The root is dried in a dark room, preferably using an electric dryer, at a temperature of 50 * C.

Properly dried raw materials have a white or pinkish tint at the break. If the root remains brown, it is better to throw it away. It is recommended to store raw materials in wooden containers with a constant supply of fresh air. Then its shelf life is extended to three years.

Video: Rhodiola rosea (golden root) - preparation, medicinal properties, how to take

Rhodiola rosea: medicinal properties

The rhizome of the plant contains a lot of organic acids, flavonoids, essential oils, glycosides, and sugar.

Thanks to its biologically active substances, Rhodiola rosea is used by humans in the treatment of:

6. The healing plant will help a woman endure: it will reduce hot flashes and improve her mood.

7. The drugs are effective in treating inflammation of the genitourinary system and infectious diseases.

8. In addition, Rhodiola rosea is included in anti-wrinkle cream. The unique substances contained in the root keep the skin youthful longer, slowing down its withering. A cream containing plant components gives firmness and elasticity to the skin, protects it from the negative effects of the environment. Rhodiola rosea tincture is used as a lotion for acne.

9. They reduce inflammation and tighten pores. Taking Rhodiola rosea drops internally helps improve skin.

Rhodiola rosea: infusion

Rhodiola rosea: instructions for use

Medicines prepared on the basis of golden root are sold in pharmacies, but you can make them yourself.

1. Rhodiola rosea infusion is used to treat the stomach, relieve nervous tension, and hypertension. The infusion increases the level of glucose in the blood vessels, maintaining mental clarity even during prolonged work.

To prepare the product you need 10 grams. Brew 200 ml of rhizomes. boiling water and let the broth brew for 4 hours. The product is then filtered. It is recommended to use the infusion about three times a day, about 200 ml. You should rinse your mouth with the prepared infusion if you have a sore throat. The resulting product can be used to treat wounds, abrasions and cuts.

2. Colds and heart weakness are treated with the following infusion from a medicinal plant. 20 gr. The crushed root is steamed with half a liter of hot water. Leave for about 5 hours. The infusion is filtered and it is ready for use. You should drink half a glass 3 times a day.

6. Ready-made Rhodiola rosea extract can be purchased at any pharmacy. It improves a person's physical and mental abilities. They should not be taken in the late afternoon.

The extract can cause insomnia. The dosage is determined by the doctor. But, as a rule, they take 5-10 drops 3 times a day, diluting the drops with boiled water. Consume a quarter of an hour before meals.

7. Tincture with alcohol. Mix 20 grams together. fresh crushed root and add 10 grams to it. dry. Pour the mixture with 100 ml of alcohol. Leave for 8 days, filter. The tincture is taken in 15-30 drops, depending on the severity of the disease.

The infusion is useful for treating affected areas of the skin. The tincture is diluted with water and used to rinse the mouth. You can use the tincture to make lotions on damaged areas of the epidermis.

8. To improve sleep and relieve nervous tension, a decoction is prepared from Rhodiola rosea at home. To prepare a decoction 10 g. 200 ml of dry rhizome is steamed. boiling water. Place in a water bath for 15 minutes and filter.

9. Wine tincture. Mix together one and a half tablespoons of heather berries, rose hips, and golden root. The mixture is crushed and poured with half a glass of red wine. Leave for 5 days, add a small spoon.

Preparations from the rhizome of Rhodiola rosea will benefit the human body, but they must be taken strictly according to the dosage and after consulting a doctor.

Rhodiola rosea: contraindications

Rhodiola rosea infusion should not be taken five hours before bedtime. It causes strong emotional arousal.

When an overdose of golden root preparations occurs, the head begins to hurt, the person becomes excited, irritated, and sleeps poorly. Therefore, it is necessary to strictly observe the dosage when using preparations from medicinal plants.

Preparations made from golden root do not need to be used:

• pregnant and breastfeeding mothers;

Not so long ago, people knew very little about goldenseal or Rhodiola rosea. Today this plant is widely used in medicine, cosmetology and sports. What is the secret of this miraculous herb and what are its benefits?

Until the middle of the last century, most of the beneficial properties and contraindications of Rhodiola rosea were unknown or poorly studied. The reason for this is quite simple - the plant’s growing area is very limited. The population of Altai keeps secret the places where the root mainly grows. One of the expeditions managed to discover the plant only in 1961.

Features of the plant

The culture is surrounded by many legends and tales that the local population passes on from mouth to mouth. The plant is credited with many magical properties, most of which are confirmed by science and medicine.

But in recent years, Rhodiola rosea has become something of a miracle cure, which helps against all diseases, fights cancer and cleanses the blood. The price of such drugs is quite high, but there will always be many buyers. But the main characteristics of a plant do not always justify its healing properties, and advertising only embellishes what it really is.

Description of the plant

Rhodiola rosea is a herbaceous plant with a large and powerful root. The root develops strictly horizontally and becomes woody on the soil surface. The color of the root resembles bronze or aged gold with a characteristic shine, which is where the name “golden root” comes from.

Many small shoots extend from the main root, which allow the plant to obtain sufficient moisture and nutrients even from the poorest soil. At the same time, only a compact part of the bush develops on the surface. It is composed of several stems that reach a height of 10 to 40 cm. Most often, a bush consists of ten stems, but extremely rarely those that consist of one branch can be formed.

The herbaceous part of the plant is decorated paired leaves opposite each other. In mid-July the plant begins to actively bloom. At the top an inflorescence is formed, collected from many small petals.

In August, seed pods appear in place of the flowers. This is how golden root reproduces. If you propagate it vegetatively, the survival rate is much lower than when planted by seeds.

Beneficial features

The effectiveness of the plant is due to the fact that it contains a huge amount of various substances and aromatic compounds, but the list of contraindications is extremely small. Scope of application of Rhodiola rosea very wide. Its beneficial properties help with many diseases:

Scope of application

Recently, a lot of research has been done on this plant. Most experiments were carried out on animals. But it has been scientifically proven that alcoholic tincture of golden root has stimulating effect In addition, it helps increase endurance.

If golden root is used by people who are actively working on physical fitness or spend a lot of time doing mental work, then it perfectly helps to increase the energy activity of the brain, as well as reduce oxidative processes in the muscles. It has been experimentally proven that the plant has a stimulating effect on the brain, thymus gland, and gonads.

Rhodiola rosea tincture, the instructions for which advise taking it at a strictly defined time, is used as a soothing, refreshing agent. Some sources advise using the culture when the temperature rises or to combat microbes. The astringent properties allow the herb to be used in gynecology in the treatment of colpitis and vaginitis.

Rhodiola rosea: use in official medicine

In traditional medicine, the drug is used in the form of a tincture of the purified root of the plant. But this should be done strictly according to indications. Most often, the plant is recommended to be used as an adaptogenic drug to increase immunity and mental activity. But also it applies in the following cases:

Rhodiola rosea extract is used in a dosage that completely depends on the patient’s condition and on what result they want to achieve. The tincture should be taken 5-10 drops during severe mental stress. For schizophrenia, the infusion is taken throughout the entire period of taking antipsychotics, with the number of drops per dose being at least 25. To enhance physical endurance, 15 drops per dose are sufficient. The results will not take long to arrive.

You should start taking the product with five drops, gradually every other day, increasing the dosage by five drops. In this case, the patient’s condition should be monitored very carefully. Most often, the course lasts no more than 30 days.

Use of the product in folk medicine

In folk medicine the remedy is used more widely. Thus, vodka tincture is used in the treatment and restoration of potency in men. Radiola rosea has enormous beneficial properties for men. It restores sexual function, helps cope with adenoma and restore potency.

When treating women, tincture of golden root is used during amenorrhea of ​​unknown nature. In addition, the use of tincture helps to cope with nervous exhaustion, loss of strength after infectious diseases, and various psycho-emotional conditions.

Quite often the medicinal properties of the plant used in treatment malaria and diseases of the intestines and stomach. The tincture is used for anemia, diabetes, tuberculosis, but the positive effect on the body in these diseases has not been proven.

Radiola rosea, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which you now know, is widely used in wound healing. This is possible due to the fact that the plant has excellent astringent and antiseptic properties. The infusion also helps well with diseases of the mouth and throat. So, if a sore throat occurs, you should gargle with water in which a few drops of golden root tincture have been diluted.

Preparation of alcohol tincture

Medicinal composition with alcohol can be prepared at home. The recipe is quite simple:

• place the root in a container, while no more than 10 grams of dry root will be required, and 20 grams of fresh root;
• add 100 milliliters of vodka;
• leave to infuse for eight days;
• drain.

Both men and women should take this infusion in an amount of no more than 20 drops at a time. If you need to treat a wound or gargle, you should dilute a teaspoon of infusion in half a glass of water. The same composition can be used to make lotions.

Using a decoction

Accept golden root decoction needed for low blood pressure and physical or mental exhaustion. It is taken as tea throughout the day. In order to prepare such a decoction, you will need to pour 10 grams of the root with boiling water and simmer in a water bath for at least fifteen minutes.

But it is worth remembering that during the boiling process, the decoction may lose some of its beneficial properties, and therefore most healers prefer to prescribe an alcohol tincture. This is especially important when treating potency in men and some diseases in women. But if you just need to raise your blood pressure or restore strength, then Rhodiola decoction will be an excellent remedy. Just remember that you shouldn’t take it at night, because it has not only medicinal properties, but also stimulating ones. You may not fall asleep all night.

Contraindications

The plant has quite few contraindications. It is strictly forbidden to use it for nervous disorders and without consulting a doctor. In addition, Rhodiola rosea is strictly prohibited for children. Its extract should not be given to a child under any circumstances. This is due to the fact that the extract contains a high concentration of root, and therefore it can have an extremely negative effect on the baby.

If an overdose occurs, pain in the heart area and increased irritability may appear. Therefore, you should strictly adhere to the dosage of the extract and increase the number of drops gradually.

Golden root tincture has a lot of useful properties, which allows it to be actively used for many diseases. But you should still be extremely careful not to harm your own health. And most importantly, you should not use the medicine without the supervision of a doctor.

Rhodiola rosea plant

Rhodiola rosea is an indispensable plant for various ailments. “Golden root” is the name given to this noble plant for its bronze-pearl-colored root. Rhodiola grows half a meter in height, has oblong leaves with denticles along the edges. The yellow flowers of goldenroot are inflorescences. Another name for Rhodiola rosea is rose root. The fruits ripen in August and have a rose oil aroma.

Pink root has many... The plant can prevent and cure a lot of diseases, as well as strengthen the immune system and speed up mental activity.

Let's look at the beneficial basic properties of Rhodiola:

• the root can improve the acuity of the sensory organs, accelerates the healing of bones in fractures, and quite successfully fights pulmonary tuberculosis;
• the ability to calm nerve cells has long been the hallmark of the plant. In case of loss of appetite, overexcitation or severe fatigue, it will have a calming effect;
• the root of this plant will have a stimulating effect on mental abilities, improve the functioning of the heart valves, increasing blood pressure;
• pink root will perfectly help stop bleeding;
• Hypothermia and overheating of the body can be easily cured by Rhodiola, which has antipyretic properties.

This is not the entire list of benefits of Rhodiola rosea. In order to fully appreciate all the benefits of this plant, it is necessary to consider in detail when it is worth resorting to its help.

When to use golden root - instructions

Used to treat many diseases. But first you need to figure out whether you should use such a medicine. So, here are the indications for use for healthy people:

• increased mental work;
• predisposition to asthenia;
• various types of overwork;
• the need for recovery after intense physical activity.

The plant will do an excellent job of solving all these problems; these are not all the healing properties of Rhodiola. In medicine, root tincture is used to treat various types of diseases. We will look at some of them below.

With vegetative-vascular dystonia, Rhodiola rosea will have a number of positive effects on the body, namely:

• will strengthen the body's resistance to weather conditions, stress, and nervous disorders;
• normalizes the functioning of the nervous system.

It is thanks to these properties of the plant that it is recommended for use by patients with vegetative-vascular dystonia. The root will contribute to the further normalization of nervous processes and the future recovery of the body.

For depression

The use of Rhodiola rosea tincture will help cope with an unpleasant illness quickly and without consequences, significantly improving mood and stamina. This is explained by the presence of essential oils, glucose, proteins and manganese in the root of the plant. These components can be taken by people of any age.

Application possible as:

• tincture;
• decoction;

A few drops of this wonderful plant will relieve you of a bad mood and surprise you with its ability to maintain the effect for a long time.

For hypertension

Despite all the beneficial properties of the rose root, you need to know that it is strictly contraindicated for hypertension.

Important! For hypertension, the use of golden root tincture can lead to severe headaches and a hypertensive crisis.

It is imperative to remember this to maintain your health.

Pink root for mastopathy

For mastopathy, Rhodiola rosea is used together with other drugs prescribed by a doctor.

To prevent or treat this disease, it is recommended to take a few drops of root tincture about twice a day. An option for using the tincture is mixing the root with, beets and carrots. The resulting mass is used as a compress every four hours for fourteen days.

Rhodiola rosea for diabetes

Rhodiola contains a large amount of fructose, which is why it is used in the preparation of dietary foods especially for people with diabetes. The tincture of this plant does an excellent job of reducing blood sugar.

15 drops of Rhodiola rosea tincture per day will reduce the chances of developing diabetes to almost zero. However, this drug should be used for medical purposes for no more than 10 days.

Attention! An overdose of golden root in the treatment of diabetes can lead to unpredictable consequences. You may get the opposite effect from the expected result. In some cases, death is possible. Use the tincture very carefully if you have diabetes.

Rhodiola rosea is also capable of producing antibodies that will prevent various types of infections from entering the body and coexist there.

The tincture stimulates and strengthens the immune system with two options:

• a direct effect on the immune system, which is produced directly for the body to produce substances that prevent toxins;
• increasing immunity by developing resistance to stress and nervous tension. Stress can greatly reduce the body's defenses and ability to resist “bad” bacteria and viruses. The medicine reduces stress levels in the body, increasing resistance to various diseases.

Thus, this plant is irreplaceable by nature for almost every person who cares about their health and does not want to spend money on purchasing medications.

Application to improve various indicators of the body

Goldenseal is popular among many people due to many reasons. In particular, the plant is used:

• for libido, which is very important for both women and their life partners. If you are faced with such an unpleasant problem as decreased libido, rose root will surprise you with its intended properties. The root helps normalize excitatory processes, so for arousal an hour before sex, take two tsp. Rhodiola rosea extract.
• For potency, it is useful to use golden root, as it normalizes the functioning of the ovaries, significantly speeds up the functioning of all sex glands, which helps in the treatment of diseases of the genitourinary system.

Important! For women's health, libido level is an important component. Low libido can negatively affect the quality of heart function. But be careful! An overdose leads to a sharp increase in irritability, which can lead to the opposite result.

Thus, we have seen how many problems the plant can solve, but we should also separately consider how Rhodiola affects athletes.

Application for athletes

As mentioned above, the property of the root is to restore the body after strong physical exertion. In addition, the tincture will maintain the body’s tone at the desired level and increase strength for new feats.

1. For various injuries and muscle pain, the root has an analgesic effect and promotes speedy healing.
2. Alcohol tincture of Rhodiola improves the elasticity of ligaments. This property will be especially appreciated by gymnasts.
3. In bodybuilding, the tincture will be rated much higher by representatives of this sport than others, since it helps build muscle mass, while being a natural and environmentally friendly product.

We were able to appreciate a huge number of positive properties of golden root, so now we need to talk about the method of preparing a wonderful tincture.

The recipe for making golden root tincture is simple to the point of banality. There are several options for tinctures. Choose the one that will be more profitable for you or just like it more:

1. Pour the golden root with a 40% alcohol solution and leave to infuse in a dark place, preferably cool. The instructions for using this type of tincture are not complicated. It is advisable to take about 10 drops 3 times a day half an hour before meals.
2. Grind the root and pour 40% alcohol, place in a dark place for 25 days, then strain with gauze. How to take this tincture is described above. The only difference is that in the first case we take the same amount of root and alcohol, in the second - in a 2:1 ratio.
3. Another nuance is that if you use vodka instead of alcohol, the effect will not change. , described above, only instead of alcohol in the same ratio you need to use vodka.

Having talked about the beneficial properties, use and preparation of rose root tincture, it is impossible not to say a few words about contraindications, because ignorance of this point can lead to various kinds of bad consequences.

Contraindications for use

The plant has such a great effect on the body that in some cases this plant cannot be used. Contraindications to the use of the medicine:

• hypertension;
• overexcitement;
• fever;
• damage to the cerebral cortex.

Important! Knowing the contraindications will help you avoid side effects, which manifest themselves in excessive irritability, heart pain and chronic fatigue. As a rule, these effects appear on the third day after the start of use.

In any case, you must not exceed the required dosage, otherwise the remedy can turn into a real enemy of your health.

So, we talked about the beneficial properties of a plant such as Rhodiola rosea. The choice is yours whether to use it or not, but if you choose a tincture, be sure to consult your doctor or read the instructions very carefully to avoid causing harm to your health.

Update: November 2018

Rhodiola rosea (pink, golden root) is a herbaceous perennial plant from the Crassulaceae family. It has a distinctive feature: the root and rhizomes are the color of bronze or old gilding with a noticeable pearlescent sheen, due to which it received its second “precious” name. The plant is included in the Red Book of the Russian Federation.

It is found in regions with temperate and cold climates, including Great Britain, North America and Ireland, grows well in alpine mountain meadows (in the Pyrenees, Alps, Carpathians), found in Kazakhstan, grown in China, Bulgaria, India. In the Russian Federation it is found in Altai and the Urals, in the mountainous regions of the Far East, Eastern and Western Siberia, in the polar regions of Yakutia, on the coasts of the Barents and White Seas. The plant is undemanding to light and heat, but needs plenty of moisture. It grows on rocks and rocky outcrops, in flat tundra, on the banks of mountain rivers and streams.

It has long been used in folk and official medicine as an effective adaptogen that increases resistance to adverse environmental factors, as well as a stimulant of the central nervous system. Part of the group of adaptogens, it combines and competes with eleutherococcus and ginseng.

Morphological description

The rhizome is horizontal, powerful, covered with a brown (bronze) cork, and has thin adventitious roots. When broken, the root is white, has a bitter-astringent taste, and has a special aroma, similar to the smell of a rose.

Most often, the plant has several (10-15 pieces) non-branched erect stems, 10-40 cm high, less often there is only one stem. The leaves are alternate, sit on stems, have an oblong-ovate, elliptical or pointed shape with a whole or serrate-toothed upper part.

Flowering occurs in June-July, fruits reach maturity in July-August. The inflorescence is multi-flowered and has a corymbose shape. The flowers are yellow, unisexual, four-, less often five-membered. The fruits are erect, multi-leafed, green.

Propagated both by seeds and vegetatively.

Collection, preparation and reproduction

The root of Rhodiola rosea is harvested for future use (the plant is 3-4 years old). This is done from the end of July to September. The roots are dug up, thoroughly washed to remove soil particles in cool water, and cleaned of brown plugs and rotten, dry areas. Cut the rhizome into pieces, each 10 cm long, and dry them at 50 degrees in a dryer.

The finished raw material has a pinkish or white color when broken. If the root is brown in color at the break, it is unsuitable for use because it loses its beneficial properties. Store dry raw materials in canvas bags in a dark place. Shelf life – 3 years.

Most often, the plant is propagated by seeds: planted in late autumn or winter in a box with nutritious soil, providing good ventilation (expanded clay is placed on the bottom). The soil is pre-moistened with a weak solution of potassium permanganate and compacted a little. The seeds are evenly distributed over the surface and lightly pressed, covered with soil (2 mm layer), covered with film and placed on the balcony. In March, the box is moved to a warm, illuminated place, and within a couple of days shoots will appear. They can be replanted when two true leaves appear.

You can propagate a plant (which is at least 2 years old) by dividing the rhizomes into 2 parts, which are planted in prepared holes with humus; compost is also laid on top, leaving renewal buds on the surface.

Chemical composition

The root of the plant contains more than 140 useful elements, which determine the complex positive effect.

• Phenols and their derivatives: tyrosol, salidroside. Strengthen the circulatory system, protect blood vessels from narrowing. Prevents cholesterol oxidation;
• Carbohydrates: glucose, fructose, sedoheptulose, sucrose. Participate in energy metabolism;
• Organic acids:
  • oxalic acid (stimulates gastric secretion and intestinal function),
  • apple (normalizes digestion, improves the condition of blood vessels, improves vision and is involved in metabolism),
  • amber (neutralizes free radicals, reduces uric acid levels, restores joint mobility, stimulates insulin production),
  • lemon (increases appetite, stimulates cell renewal, activates the immune system);
• Terpenoids: rosiridine, rosiridol. Increases tissue resistance to damage;
• Flavonoids: kaempferol, astragalin, 7-rhamnoside of kaempferol, rhodiolin, tricine, rhodionin, 5-glucoside and 7-glucoside of tricine, rhodosin, acetylrodalgin, 8-methylherbacetin. Reduce vascular permeability, normalize blood pressure and heart rate, reduce intraocular pressure, participate in bile formation processes, stimulate the function of the adrenal cortex and regulate urine production;
• Glycosides. They are characterized by cumulative and cardiotonic properties, normalize the functioning of the cardiovascular system. They have a calming and diuretic effect;
• Microelements: silver, copper, manganese, zinc, involved in vital processes;
• Anthraquinones. Strengthen the immune system, participate in the formation of immune cells. Have a laxative effect;
• Coumarins. They have antitumor, anticoagulant and anticoagulant effects. They influence the genetic apparatus of the tumor, thereby inhibiting the ability of cells to metastasize;
• Essential oil. Has bactericidal, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulating, wound-healing, analgesic effects;
• Tannins. They change the structure of proteins and participate in the formation of a protective albuminate film, which has a bactericidal or bacteriostatic effect. They have an astringent effect;
• Alkaloids. They have antispasmodic, hemostatic, analgesic, sedative and hypotensive effects;
• Sterols. Reduce cholesterol levels, strengthen the cardiovascular system, increase immunity, affect the quality and quantity of helper cells that protect against the development of autoimmune reactions;
• Aromatic compounds: rosavin, rosin, rosarin, cinnamic alcohol. Improves the functioning of the central nervous system.

Straight chain aliphatic alcohols and monoterpene hydrocarbons were found in the essential oil. The composition of the essential oil varies depending on where the plant grows.

The aboveground part of the plant is saturated with organic acids (malic, citric, oxalic, succinic), phenols and their derivatives, phenolcarboxylic acids (gallic, caffeic), coumarins, tannins, and flavonoids.

Beneficial features

Golden root (rhodiola) is characterized by many beneficial properties:

• is a powerful antioxidant and adaptogen;
• protects the body from the development of cancer and prevents tumor metastasis;
• increases blood pressure;
• improves heart function;
• fights pathogenic microorganisms;
• has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• promotes bile secretion;
• stops bleeding;
• restores the body after overwork, tones well;
• has a general strengthening effect and increases the body’s resistance to the influence of unfavorable environmental factors;
• has a neuroprotective effect;
• stimulates the central nervous system;
• maintains the energy potential of the brain at a high level;
• improves cognitive functions;
• accelerates the course of oxidative processes;
• accelerates wound healing.

Scientific research

Scientific research began in the 60s of the 20th century. In 1961, an expedition led by G.V. Krylov was carried out, during which scientists managed to find the plant in the taiga of the Altai Mountains. Based on research results, the plant was introduced into scientific medicine and began to be used in the form of a liquid extract with adaptogenic and stimulating properties.

Numerous studies have been conducted to study the effect of the plant on the central nervous system. Plant preparations change the bioelectrical activity of the brain and improve cognitive functions: by increasing resistance to stress factors, memory and the ability to remember information improves.

The positive effect of plant preparations has been reported to eliminate the side effects of psychotropic therapy for schizophrenia.

A number of studies have shown that roseola rosea can improve physical performance. An experiment conducted on animals (white rats) recorded a decrease in the rate of glycolysis, the amount of lactic acid in the muscles, the preservation of a high level of phospholipids in the muscles and liver, as well as blood sugar after 2 hours of swimming in individuals receiving the plant preparation.

The possibility of using plant preparations as hepatoprotectors is also being considered. The effectiveness of use as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent for liver damage induced by organophosphorus compounds has been proven in animals.

Application

Rhodiola rosea is a powerful adaptogen that has a visible effect after the first use of the drug! But you can’t take plant preparations every day without reason. Constant stimulation of the body, even with herbal preparations, can lead to an effect opposite to the expected one.

Rhodiola is used for many diseases and pathological conditions, and is characterized by a whole range of pharmacological properties. The most common indications for the use of plant preparations:

• poor appetite;
• metabolic disorders;
• physical and mental fatigue;
• neuroses;
• asthenic condition after long-term illnesses;
• inflammatory processes;
• allergic reactions;
• radiation injuries (acute and chronic);
• reduced visual acuity;
• poor hearing;
• pulmonary tuberculosis;
• anemia;
• oncological diseases;
• bone fracture;
• menorrhagia;
• dysmenorrhea;
• amenorrhea primary and secondary;
• gynecological diseases (adnexitis, polycystic ovary syndrome, fibrocystic mastopathy);
• early menopause;
• oligospermia;
• late puberty;
• toothache;
• headache;
• gout;
• diabetes;
• conjunctivitis;
• angina;
• pyorrhea;
• diarrhea;
• wounds, skin lesions, rashes, abscesses.

Golden root is often used for men and women: it helps with impotence and is indicated for many diseases of the female reproductive system. Plant preparations enhance the functioning of the sex glands, stimulate the ovaries and are widely used in the treatment of early menopause. The plant has a positive effect on potency, and its effectiveness is higher than that of ginseng root.

It has been proven that the plant enhances the effect of cytostatics that cause necrosis of cancer cells: the membrane, core and parts of the cell are destroyed, which leads to its death.

In cosmetology

This unique plant has also found its application in cosmetology. Golden root extract has a positive effect on aging, sensitive skin and improves its overall condition. The rich biologically active composition allows the use of plant extracts in various creams to give them stimulating and adaptogenic properties, slow down the aging process of the skin, and increase resistance to adverse environmental factors.

Cosmetic preparations with golden root:

• normalize metabolic processes in the skin;
• improve energy metabolism in cells;
• accelerate skin regeneration processes;
• minimizes transepidermal fluid loss;
• increase skin barrier functions;
• slow down the aging process;
• reduce the level of depression.

The most popular cosmetics with golden root: day cream for sensitive skin from “Natura Siberika”, face cream “Clean Line”, day cream “Granny Agafya’s Recipes”.

Pharmaceutical preparations with Rhodiola rosea

Golden root has also found application in official medicine - many drugs and dietary supplements are actively used in the treatment of a number of diseases. Let's look at the most popular ones.

Rhodiola Liquid Extract The drug is indicated for increased fatigue, neurocirculatory dystonia of the hypotonic type, neurasthenic conditions, during the period of recovery from severe somatic and infectious pathologies, during periods of mental and physical stress, and also as a means for the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections during periods of epidemics.

Rhodiola +

Rhodiola rosea vis extract in capsules A plant complex with golden root and vitamin C, characterized by a stimulating, restorative and tonic effect. Recommended for improving physical and mental performance, acclimatization during flights, and restoring health after long-term illnesses. It is also used in sports - before and after training, it helps to achieve better results and recover faster after exercise.

Root Dry plant raw materials, which are used for the preparation of aqueous and alcoholic preparations, decoctions, teas, which are characterized by high adaptogens and stimulating properties. The instructions for the golden root describe how to prepare this or that remedy.

The plant is also included in various herbal teas and mixtures.

Traditional recipes with Rhodiola rosea

Traditional healers have long and successfully used plant preparations for many diseases. The duration of use is determined individually, but it is recommended to take no more than 5 days in a row, after which take a seven-day break.

Tincture of golden root with vodka for hypotension

• Take 50 gr. dry plant root, grind to a powdery consistency, pour in 2 glasses of vodka. Leave in the dark for 14 days, shake occasionally. Strain the finished tincture.
• Take 20-30 drops 3 times a day. 30 minutes before meals. You can start taking 5 drops and gradually increase the volume to the recommended amount.

Tincture of golden root for colds and heart weakness, nervous diseases and pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract

• Take 10 g. roots, chop and pour 1 cup of boiling water. Leave to brew for 4 hours and strain.
• Take half a glass 3 times a day. Externally used as an effective wound healing agent for treating wounds, cuts, and for rinsing the mouth with sore throat.

Decoction

• Improves the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, making them more resilient. Helps with gastrointestinal diseases, uterine bleeding, impotence, improves thyroid function and normalizes blood sugar levels. Eliminates headaches and toothaches. Can be used externally to wipe the skin.
• Take 20 gr. roots, chop and pour 500 ml of boiling water, keep on low heat for 10 minutes. Leave to steep until cool, then strain.
• Take 50 ml 3 times a day.

Tonic decoction

• It has a strong stimulating effect on the central nervous system, which surpasses the effect of black teas and coffee. Therefore, you should not take it every day, but only when necessary.
• Take 1 tsp. root (pre-chopped) and pour 1 liter of water, boil for 10 minutes. and leave for another 40 minutes. in a warm place.
• Take 2-3 glasses during the day (no later than 4 hours before going to bed), adding sugar or honey to the drink if desired.

Collection to strengthen immunity

• Take 20 grams. rhodiola roots, and zamanika roots. Add 15 gr. , 15 gr. dry nettle, 10 gr. St. John's wort herb, mix. 1 tbsp. pour a glass of boiling water over the collection and place on low heat for 10 minutes. Leave to infuse for 4 hours, covered, and strain. Dilute the resulting volume with 200 ml of boiling water.
• Take 70 ml 3 times a day.

Tincture for anemia and diseases of the female reproductive system

• It also helps with age-related loss of strength, impotence, pulmonary tuberculosis, liver pathologies and diabetes.
• Take 100 gr. chopped roots and pour 400 ml of good vodka over them. Place in a dark place for 7 days.
• Take 30-40 drops 3 times a day. 30 minutes before meals.

Collection for colds and gastrointestinal function disorders

• Take equal parts of Rhodiola rosea, bergenia, blackberry, strawberry, raspberry, black currant leaves, cinquefoil flowers, St. John's wort flowers and thyme, mix everything. Take 3 tbsp. dry collection and pour 1 liter of boiling water over them, leave for 60 minutes. Add honey or sugar to taste.
• Take 1-2 glasses per day.

Contraindications

• Hypertensive crisis.
• Severe diseases of the cardiovascular and central nervous systems.
• Post-influenza encephalitis.
• Children's age up to 12 years.
• Pregnancy.
• Lactation.
• Severe nervous excitability.
• Fever.
• Individual intolerance.

Side effects

It is very important to follow the dosage described in prescriptions or prescribed by a doctor - this is a guarantee that side effects will not occur. The medications are taken no later than 4 hours before going to bed.

In rare cases, the following undesirable effects may occur:

• excitation;
• insomnia;
• increased irritability;
• discomfort in the heart area;
• headache.

In patients who suffer from hypotension caused by menopause, VSD or diencephalitis, plant preparations can lead to a sharp increase or decrease in pressure, which leads to a deterioration in overall health.

If any side effects develop, treatment is stopped immediately.