Siberian tea: the next ginseng?

Nutritional supplements company Enzymatic Therapy has introduced Rhodiola Energy, a Rhodiola rosea extract based on the clinically studied herb. Is this the next ginseng?

"I believe Rhodiola rosea could become the next herb of choice for people looking for a short-term energy boost and everyday stress relief,"​ said Donald Brown, a member of Enzymatic Therapy's scientific advisory board. "In clinical studies, Rhodiola rosea helps alleviate stress and improves energy levels without the letdown many people get with popular energy products."​

According to the company, Rhodiola rosea is an herb that has been used for thousands of years in Siberia to make an energy-enhancing tea. "Clinical studies of medical students, military cadets and physicians have demonstrated that extracts made from Rhodiola rosea improved mental performance, increased work output, and decreased fatigue,"​ commented Dr. Brown.

As with any standardised herbal supplement, Dr. Brown stressed, getting the right amount of key ingredients is important. "Consumers should check labels to make sure they are getting Rhodiola rosea, not Rhodiola sacra or other species. Only Rhodiola rosea contains the active ingredient rosavins."​

Enzymatic Therapy's​ Rhodiola Energy has been formulated to contain 3 per cent rosavins and 1 per cent salidroside.