Nootropic
Rhodiola rosea
Also known as: Rhodiola rosea Extract, Rhodiola, Golden Root, Roseroot
Rhodiola rosea is a traditional adaptogenic herb used to support stress resilience, mental fatigue, and mood. Clinical evidence shows modest benefits for stress-related fatigue and cognitive performance, though effects are generally moderate in magnitude.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Rhodiola rosea product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Rhodiola | 92 A | $0.40 |
| 2 | BulkSupplements Rhodiola Extract (3% Salidroside) Powder | 91 A | $0.02 |
| 3 | Pure Encapsulations Rhodiola Rosea | 91 A | $0.24 |
| 4 | Nutricost Rhodiola Rosea Capsules | 91 A | $0.33 |
| 5 | Life Extension Rhodiola Extract | 91 A | $0.26 |
| 6 | NOW Foods Rhodiola | 90 A | $0.32 |
| 7 | New Chapter Rhodiola Force | 90 A | $0.97 |
| 8 | Thorne Emotion Balance Support | 87 A | $1.05 |
| 9 | Pure Encapsulations CarbCrave Complex | 87 A | $0.94 |
| 10 | Pure Encapsulations Emotional Wellness | 86 A- | $1.29 |
| 11 | Pure Encapsulations Phyto-ADR | 86 A- | $0.53 |
| 12 | Pure Encapsulations Daily Stress Formula | 86 A- | $1.38 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Rhodiola rosea should I take?
The typical range is 200-600 mg daily. Cycle: 3 weeks on, 1 week off
When should I take Rhodiola rosea?
Morning (can be stimulating). Optional.
Which form of Rhodiola rosea is best?
Standardized extract — 3% rosavins, 1% salidroside. Other forms in the catalog: SHR-5 extract, Root powder, Capsule, Tablet, Liquid extract.
Is Rhodiola rosea safe?
Commonly reported: Insomnia if late, Jitteriness, Dry mouth. Serious warnings: None. Safe
Which Rhodiola rosea supplement scores highest?
Thorne Rhodiola, at 92/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Mental fatigue
- Stress resilience
- Focus
- Mood
- Stress resilience and adaptation
- Mental fatigue and cognitive performance
- Physical endurance and recovery
How it works
- Inhibits MAO-A and MAO-B
- Modulates cortisol
- Increases stress resistance
Dosage
- Typical range
- 200-600 mg daily
- Timing
- Morning (can be stimulating)
- With food
- Optional
- Duration
- Cycle: 3 weeks on, 1 week off
- Special populations
- High stress, mental fatigue
Forms
- Standardized extract
- SHR-5 extract
- Root powder· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
- Tablet· 70/100
- Liquid extract· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Insomnia if late
- Jitteriness
- Dry mouth
Contraindications
- Bipolar (may trigger mania)
Products containing Rhodiola rosea
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Rhodiola rosea on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Known interactions
Evidence notes
Well-studied adaptogen for mental performance
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
Cited research for Rhodiola rosea
Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention rhodiola rosea. Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.