Synopsis

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

Rhodiola sacra, closely related to Rhodiola rosea, has a long history of traditional use in Tibetan and Chinese medicine. It has been used to combat fatigue, enhance physical and mental performance, and increase resilience to stress—outcomes associated with the functioning of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), which is responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response. While modern scientific research has focused more on Rhodiola rosea, traditional texts and ethnobotanical sources reference Rhodiola sacra as an adaptogen used by monks and high-altitude dwellers to improve endurance and manage stressful environments. The traditional rationale is that Rhodiola sacra may support energy, stamina, and stress adaptation, all of which are mediated in part by the SNS.

However, rigorous clinical trials specifically on Rhodiola sacra and its effects on the sympathetic nervous system are lacking. Most of the scientific evidence comes from studies on Rhodiola rosea, which show some potential for stress reduction and fatigue mitigation, but direct extrapolation to Rhodiola sacra is not fully validated. Therefore, the use of Rhodiola sacra to support the SNS is justified primarily by traditional use with limited direct scientific support.

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