Appearance and Location

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), also called Arctic root or golden root, has been used for centuries in Russian and Scandinavian medicine. This resilient herb in particular grows wild in the high, dry, rocky mountain ranges of northern Asia, Mongolia and Siberia as well as the subarctic regions of Alaska, Europe and Scandinavia.

Despite its delicate appearance, these yellow flowers can be found at 10,000 feet altitude. The begin to really grow once the snow has melted. This plant thrives in harsh conditions: deep cold, winds, droughts, reduced oxygen and intense radiation exposure in its normal environment. Traditionally, the roots are used and are pale in color. When you cut the roots open, they give a strong smell of roses – hence the latin name ‘rosea.’

Functions and Properties Throughout History

Rhodiola is known as an adaptogen, which means it has active components that directly impact your body. Nancy likes to call it the “gentle ginseng” because much like ginseng, it also helps and supports your body’s ability to maintain optimal homeostasis. It’s attributes in traditional herbalism are plentiful! Rhodiola rosea is known to maximize your energy, assist in adapting to stressors, sharpen your memory and mental acuity, support a healthy cardiovascular system, can ease anxiety and stabilize the mood, assist in gentle hormone balancing, enhance physical performance and improve sexual function in both women and men. Recently, the root extracts of Rhodiola rosea have been used as drinks, preservatives, and in commercial medicines offered worldwide

Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.