Evidence supporting the use of: Rhodiola sacra
For the health condition: Worry
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Rhodiola sacra, a close relative of Rhodiola rosea, has been traditionally used in Tibetan and Chinese medicine to promote resilience against stress, fatigue, and to support mental well-being. The traditional use of Rhodiola species for worry—often characterized as mild anxiety or nervousness—stems from their role as adaptogens, substances believed to help the body adapt to stressors and restore balance. Historical texts and ethnobotanical records indicate that Rhodiola sacra has been used in rituals and remedies aimed at calming the mind and enhancing endurance, particularly in high-altitude regions where psychological stress is common.
However, while there is a substantial body of research on Rhodiola rosea for stress and anxiety, direct clinical studies on Rhodiola sacra are limited. The traditional use is thus the primary justification for its application in supporting worry or anxiety, rather than robust scientific validation. Some preclinical studies suggest potential adaptogenic and anxiolytic properties due to its content of salidroside and other bioactive compounds, but human clinical data specific to worry or anxiety are lacking. Therefore, the evidence supporting its use for worry is primarily traditional, and the strength of the supporting evidence is modest.
Other ingredients used for Worry
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
waterhyssop
benegut perilla (proprietary)
damiana
fennel
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
guayusa
kudzu
L-theanine
l-tyrosine
lavender
lion's mane
magnesium
motherwort
ophiopogon root
polygala root
relora® (proprietary)
vitamin B6
zinc
cardamom
1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
Albizia
Buddha's Hand
bacoside
Gelsemium
Linden
Poppy
Scleranthus annus
Schisandrins
Schizandrol A
Xanthine
Other health conditions supported by Rhodiola sacra
Adrenal FatigueAnxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Athletic and Exercise Aids
Concentration (poor)
Depression
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Memory and Brain Function
Stress
Worry