Are you concerned about the potential side effects of using Rhodiola rosea extract? If so, that’s understandable since it’s a powerful herb!
Rhodiola rosea is considered an adaptogen herb that regulates stress resistance and increases athletic and sexual performance, energy, and endurance. It is also used for supporting mood and sometimes used for anxiety.
Rhodiola rosea benefits are well-established in the medical community as well as practitioners of alternative health remedies and has been used historically to boost stamina, naturally regulate mood and sharpen mental function. It’s one of the main herbs that the word adaptogen was created to describe.
Rhodiola Side Effects
There are some possible adverse reactions and the side effects of using Rhodiola rosea extract when it is used correctly or incorrectly. This unique herb can help different conditions and it must be taken with caution, particularly if you have a known medical condition.
There are side effects of using Rhodiola rosea extract even if it is considered to be both safe and non-addictive.
The following are some of its side effects which include:
Blood Pressure Alteration
Rhodiola extract is used as a potential treatment for cardiac problems. It should be taken with doctor’s supervision for people with hypertension or hypotension because Rhodiola rosea extract tends to elevate high blood pressure when taken in high doses.
Dizziness or Vertigo
One of the side effects of using Rhodiola rosea is blood pressure changes and due to these fluctuations, it can cause vertigo or dizziness. A study conducted by scientists at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) showed that it can cause dizziness. It is advisable to seek emergency medical treatment if a person experience dizziness with chest pain and blurred vision because it may indicate a serious medical problem.
Anxiety, Insomnia and Irritability
Rhodiola Rosea supplements can cause or worsen anxiety symptoms like irritability, tachycardia, restlessness, mood swings and panic. A study has suggested Rhodiola rosea extract’s potency for anxiety yet its stimulating effects may aggravate anxiety problems. It may also worsen anxiety-related insomnia so do not take Rhodiola at bedtime. It’s best to only take the supplement when you first awake.
Headaches
It is possible that Rhodiola can give you a headache which could have to do with changes in blood pressure or blood sugar levels. If this is the case, try taking a lower dose next time and see if the same thing happens.
Contraindications with SSRI’s
Rhodiola rosea has potential interactions with SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), a class of medications commonly prescribed for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Rhodiola can help support serotonin which may be useful in some people. But combined with SSRI’s this leads to a risk of serotonin syndrome. This condition occurs when there is too much serotonin in the brain, leading to symptoms ranging from mild (shivering and diarrhea) to severe (muscle rigidity, fever, and seizures).
Dry Mouth and Saliva production
Dry mouth is one of the most common Rhodiola rosea side effects. This is mostly just because of it’s very astringent taste. But there is also the medical term of xerostomia. Dry mouth can cause complication like digestive problems and tooth decay if left untreated. Drinking more water and nutritious fluids, and using alcohol-free mouthwash and sugarless candy can aid in alleviating this uncomfortable side effect.
Lower Blood Sugar Levels
It may lower blood glucose level in the body so caution is necessary for patients with diabetes taking the extract powder or capsules supplement. Monitoring blood sugar levels by a qualified health professional is advised.
Increase Risk of Bleeding
It may increase the risk of bleeding so people with bleeding problems should be warned in taking Rhodiola. It is one of the most dangerous side effects of using Rhodiola rosea since excessive bleeding will lead to death. The herb should be strictly avoided by anyone anticipating surgery in the near future.
Autoimmune Diseases
Rhodiola can help support the immune system. But some may find that it stimulates the immune system too much, potentially exacerbating conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and others where an overactive immune system is a concern.
Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking Rhodiola rosea in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Stay on the safe side and avoid use due to a lack of safety data.
It is important to start with the dosage recommendations to avoid the side effects mentioned above. Too much is more likely to lead to any side effects.
As always, it’s always best to first consult a qualified physician before taking an herbal extract to prevent or minimize side effects and be alerted to any possible contraindications.