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Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board

Rhodiola Rosea

MODERATE EVIDENCEAdaptogenLast updated April 5, 2026

SCAN DOSE SUMMARY

Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used for fatigue, stress, and cognitive function. Our assessment: moderate evidence supports its anti-fatigue effects and potential mood benefits, but studies are generally small and short-term. It's one of the better-studied adaptogens after ashwagandha, with a favorable safety profile.

EVIDENCE GRADES

FatigueModerate
B
Subjective well-beingModerate
B
Cognitive function under stressLimited
C
DepressionLimited
C

OPTIMAL DOSAGE

  • For fatigue/stress: 200-600mg/day of standardized extract (3% rosavins, 1% salidroside)
  • SHR-5 extract: 340-680mg/day (most studied branded extract)
  • Timing: Morning or early afternoon. May be stimulating for some.
Scan a supplement containing Rhodiola Rosea

SAFETY PROFILE

Side Effects

  • Generally well tolerated. Mild: dizziness, dry mouth, jitteriness.
  • May cause overstimulation in sensitive individuals.

Drug Interactions

  • CYP2C9 substrates: Rhodiola may inhibit CYP2C9 (in vitro). Monitor if on warfarin, phenytoin, or NSAIDs.
  • Antidepressants: Theoretical interaction due to possible MAO inhibition. Use caution with SSRIs/SNRIs.
  • Stimulants: May have additive stimulating effects.

Precautions

  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Not studied. Avoid.
  • Bipolar disorder: May trigger mania due to stimulating/mood-elevating properties.

WADA Status

Not Prohibited.

WHO SHOULD BE CAREFUL

HOW SCAN DOSE SCORES THIS

Present at 200-600mg standardized extract:✅ Green flag — reasonable evidence, good safety
Unstandardized or "rhodiola powder":⚠️ Yellow flag — active compound content varies wildly
Combined with other stimulants:⚠️ Yellow flag — additive stimulation risk

RELATED RESEARCH

AshwagandhaReduces stress and cortisol
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AstragalusAstragalus contains active compounds including astragaloside IV, cycloastragenol
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Scan Your Rhodiola Rosea SupplementBrowse all ingredients

Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated: April 5, 2026

Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.

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