Evidence supporting the use of: Rhodiola
For the health condition: Apathy

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Rhodiola rosea has some preliminary scientific evidence supporting its use for symptoms related to apathy, though the overall evidence is limited and not robust. Rhodiola is classified as an adaptogen and is traditionally used to combat fatigue, stress, and mood disturbances. Recent clinical interest has focused on its potential benefits for depression and related symptoms, including apathy—a state of diminished motivation and emotional blunting commonly seen in depression and some neurological disorders.

A few randomized controlled trials and open-label studies have suggested that rhodiola extracts may improve overall mood, reduce fatigue, and increase motivation in individuals with mild to moderate depression or stress-related fatigue. For example, a 2015 pilot study by Scholey et al. showed some improvement in self-reported depressive symptoms and motivation in participants given Rhodiola rosea extract. Similarly, a 2012 review by Ishaque et al. found rhodiola to have a modest effect on depressive symptoms, with some secondary outcomes suggesting improvements in motivation and interest.

However, specific studies targeting apathy as a distinct clinical endpoint are lacking. Most available research uses scales that include motivation or interest as subcomponents rather than primary outcomes. As such, while rhodiola’s mood-enhancing and anti-fatigue properties may indirectly improve apathy, direct scientific validation is limited. More high-quality, targeted research is needed to substantiate its use specifically for apathy.

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