روڈیولا · Rhodiola rosea, golden root
Weak evidence
Some promise for fatigue and burnout. Thin evidence for depression itself.
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An arctic root classed as an adaptogen, used traditionally in Russia and Scandinavia for stamina.
Small trials suggest it may reduce fatigue and burnout symptoms, and one trial in mild depression found it better tolerated but less effective than a standard antidepressant. Small evidence base, uneven quality. Most plausible for exhaustion and stress rather than depression as such.
Trials commonly used 200 to 600 mg daily of standardised extract, in the morning because it can be activating.
Recorded because a person who has decided to try something will find a number somewhere, and a forum's number is worse than a trial's. It is not a recommendation, and the right amount for you depends on things only a doctor who knows your history can weigh.
Can cause agitation, irritability and insomnia, especially later in the day. Reports of triggering mania in bipolar disorder - avoid if that applies. Little pregnancy data.
Imported and relatively expensive; not commonly stocked outside larger pharmacies and online sellers.
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