Continuing - and inspired - from the UltraMind Solution Quizzes thread
http://www.cassiopaea.org/forum/index.php?topic=11672.0
this is some of the finds on neurotransmitter lows.
There's this book that its main focus is these four neurotransmitters (serotonin, GABA, Dopamine, Acetylholine), titled, The Edge Effect: Achieve Total Health and Longevity with the Balanced Brain Advantage By Dr Eric R. Braverman.
-http://books.google.com/books?id=12zG7dUgeIYC
You can read some pages that are in preview here
-http://books.google.com/books?id=12zG7dUgeIYC&printsec=frontcover#PPA41,M1
He discusses how certain environmental toxins affect each neurotransmitter and i find interesting what Dr Braveman says in preview page 40:
Reading that i thought of how living in psychopathic run societies affects our biology.
Then i run into James Jordan
-http://createvibranthealth.com/aboutJ.htm
who writes about himself:
James created a questionnaire that assesses neurotransmitter dominance and deficiencies. You can see him talk in a video and also read this on his site (he is referencing Braveman above):
-http://createvibranthealth.com/NT.htm
Then i started reading on the different supplements the the links above suggest for boosting the work of the neurotransmitters when i found a supplement herb it seems to work
Rhodiola rosea
-http://www.smart-drugs.net/Rhodiola-rosea.htm
http://www.cassiopaea.org/forum/index.php?topic=11672.0
this is some of the finds on neurotransmitter lows.
There's this book that its main focus is these four neurotransmitters (serotonin, GABA, Dopamine, Acetylholine), titled, The Edge Effect: Achieve Total Health and Longevity with the Balanced Brain Advantage By Dr Eric R. Braverman.
-http://books.google.com/books?id=12zG7dUgeIYC
A proven program to reverse and prevent aging that will be a must-have for all “baby boomers,” by a leading figure in the medical field and a frequent guest on national TV. This could be as close to a fountain of youth as mankind will ever come, the truly scientific answer to how to reverse or prevent the debilitating effects of aging, including memory loss, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and Alzheimer’s. Dr. Eric Braverman, a leading figure in the practice of brain-body health care, reveals the dramatic impact that proper brain nourishment can have on the quality of our lives. His key to longevity and well-being is balancing the brain’s four important neurotransmitters. A simple test determines which of the four is dominant in you, and what you can do to maintain the right balance, by modifying your diet with both foods and natural supplements. Proven effective for thousands of patients in Dr. Braverman’s practice, this groundbreaking approach will help anyone make the most of his or her life, free of the major illnesses (such as cancer and heart disease) and minor ailments as well.
You can read some pages that are in preview here
-http://books.google.com/books?id=12zG7dUgeIYC&printsec=frontcover#PPA41,M1
He discusses how certain environmental toxins affect each neurotransmitter and i find interesting what Dr Braveman says in preview page 40:
Less well documented are the effects of media's environmental assaults - violent films, pornography, loud music and foul language. I believe that exposure to such personal upsets depresses production of GABA, acetylholine and serotonin.
Reading that i thought of how living in psychopathic run societies affects our biology.
Then i run into James Jordan
-http://createvibranthealth.com/aboutJ.htm
who writes about himself:
As a certified nutritional consultant, I have helped many thousands of people to improve their health.
I am also a certified Metabolic Typing Advisor and have specialized training in reading and interpreting hair mineral analysis reports.
I graduated from Loyola University School of Law and was licensed to practice law in the state of Illinois in 1986. I practiced law on and off from 1987 to 1993.
My interest in natural healing began as a result of my six-year battle with chronic illness. During this time, from 1984 to 1990, I saw dozens of health care practitioners, both conventional and unconventional. I was diagnosed with a variety of illnesses including food allergies, chronic candida, chronic fatigue syndrome and toxic metal poisoning.
By 1989 I had made little progress and had almost given up hope. It was during this time that a life-changing shift in my understanding of healing occurred: a combination of natural therapies that addressed underlying toxicities, deficiencies and emotional challenges is what helped me break through years of struggle, and I was finally able to regain my health.
After regaining my health I felt compelled to share this message of healing with clients from my legal practice, friends, family, even complete strangers. From this point on my life took a new path into the field of natural healing.
James created a questionnaire that assesses neurotransmitter dominance and deficiencies. You can see him talk in a video and also read this on his site (he is referencing Braveman above):
-http://createvibranthealth.com/NT.htm
The Four Aspects of Brain Health
People usually don’t start thinking about the health of their brain until they notice theirs isn’t functioning as well as it used to. It may start by you having trouble remembering names, phone numbers or addresses. Maybe you can’t concentrate as well on the task at hand as you did in the past. You may also notice that you are having more sleep disorders or are feeling depressed more often. These are signs that something may be off in your brain chemistry.
The brain is the greatest generator of electricity in the human body. The brain sends electric currents throughout the entire body through brain chemicals called neurotransmitters which then send energy and information to the rest of your cells, glands and organs. It’s really amazing how perfectly designed the body is when you look closely – the only problem comes when we poison the cells of the body and starve the body of nutrients necessary to fuel cellular regeneration. There are a growing number of toxins that are entering our environment which destroy your brain and nervous system’s cells. These toxins are called excito-toxins which literally stimulate your neurons to death. Toxic chemicals such as MSG, nutra-sweet (aka as aspartame), hydrolyzed protein are now saturating our dietary landscape. Many of us put toxic chemicals on our hair and face which get into our brains and effect the production and function of neurotransmitters. For those of you who have come to my class on detoxification you know how commercial hair, skin and beauty care products are often loaded with toxic chemicals and metals including: lead, aluminum and mercury. All these toxins get into the body and poison the cells. My motto is that if you wouldn’t eat the product don’t put it on your hair, face or skin.
Attention deficit disorder is now one of the fastest growing diseases in our society and it can be traced to these toxins and nutrient deficiencies as well as a disconnected life from nature and spirit.
According to Dr. Eric Braverman, a leading clinician and researcher in the field of mind-brain-body medicine, brain health has four main aspects:
* memory
* attention
* personality and temperament
* physical health
The brain’s four primary neurotransmitters: dopamine, acetylcholine, GABA, and serontonin each affect these four areas of brain health in different ways. For example, one measure for memory and attention is the speed at which the brain processes information. All four neurotransmitters affect speed; however, acetylcholine is most important for brain speed. A normal brain processes a thought in about 320 milliseconds (1/3 of a second). By the time our thinking is slowed down to four hundred milliseconds to process a thought we can no longer process logical thoughts. The average person loses 7-10 milliseconds of brain speed every decade starting at the age of 40. Numerous learning disabilities, neuro-psychiatric problems and other seemingly unrelated health problems are set in motion with slower brain speed. Remember this is just one of hundreds of health issues related to brain chemistry.
The question you may be asking yourself is that if brain speed is a result of neurotransmitter production – what are neurotransmitters made of? Each neurotransmitter is made of different building blocks called amino acids. I will review the specific nutrients and foods that boost each neurotransmitter later.
The Brain’s Four Primary Neurotransmitters
The brain is able to coordinate your movements, control your heart rate and breathing, and allow you to feel hunger, pain, happiness, sadness and all other emotions through the electrical charges which travel throughout your body. This electricity needs a path to travel on through the body. This path is made up of the cells of the central nervous system (which includes the brain and spinal cord) called neurons. Each of us is born with approximately 100 billion neurons which are continually dying and being created every second. Electrical impulses sent as brain signals from the brain through the spinal cord to various nerve endings throughout the body travel from neuron to neuron via brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Since neurons don’t actually touch each other – there is a gap between each neuron, called synaptic gaps, neurotransmitters bridge these gaps and are, therefore, essential for the brain to communicate to the rest of the body. The electricity of the brain literally travels on the neurotransmitters between neurons throughout the body.
An overabundance or deficiency of any neurotransmitter can lead to health problems. An overabundance of a particular biochemical can flood the synaptic gaps, a deficiency will interrupt the brain signal getting to the part of the body that needs information.
When all four neurotransmitters are balanced one’s brain is operating in top form, or as Dr. Braverman calls it you will be experiencing the “edge effect” – optimum brain function.
Dopamine
Beta brain waves which make you feel alert are created in the frontal lobes of the brain from neurons that produce the biochemical dopamine, which controls the electrical voltage of your brain. Dopamine works as a natural amphetamine and controls your energy, excitement and motivation.
Dopamine controls the following:
* blood pressure
* metabolism
* digestion
* voluntary movement
* intelligence
* abstract thought
* setting goals
* long-term planning
* Adrenaline production
Those individuals with a predominant dopamine nature who are balanced know what they want, are assertive, strong-willed, fast on their feet and self-confident. Dopamine personalities tend to like facts and figures are highly rational and are achievement oriented. Dopamine types gravitate toward occupations such as law, science, allopathic medicine, engineering, architecture and the military.
Producing too much dopamine can make one too intense, compulsive and driven. Overproduction of dopamine can also lead to violent behavior.
Dopamine deficiencies can lead to some of the following symptoms:
* Anemia
* Blood sugar instability
* Bone density loss
* High blood pressure
* Low sex drive and/or difficulty achieving orgasm
* Joint pain
* Thyroid disorders
* Aggression (paradoxically)
* Anger
* Depression
* Inability to handle stress
* Guilt or feelings of worthlessness
* Excessive sleep
* Mood swings
* Slow thought processing speed
* Forgetfulness
* Attention deficit disorder
* Hyperactivity
* Failure to finish tasks
Severe dopamine deficiencies are often treated with medications or hormones. Mild to moderate dopamine deficiencies can be balanced with diet, supplements and lifestyle modifications.
Physical signs of dopamine deficiency will be fatigue, sleeping long hours and still not feeling rested, your mind wandering, difficulty making decisions, craving caffeine, sexual dysfunction. Unconsciously you will try to compensate by avoiding stressful situations, drinking coffee to give you energy and drinking alcohol to bring you down. It is important once you realize this to correct your underlying dopamine deficiency with proper nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle modifications.
Each of the primary neurotransmitters has a nutrient precursor, and dopamine is derived from the amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine. Co-factors such as folic acid, vitamin B6, iron, copper and vitamin C are important for phenylanaline to be absorbed.
Common foods that have high phenylalanine (p) or tyrosine (t) concentrations (in grams) include: Chicken 6-8 oz. 1.60 (p)/ .4 (t); Cottage Cheese 1 cup 1.7 (p)/1.7 (t); walnuts 6-8 oz. 1.4 (p); Ricotta cheese 1 cup 1.35 (p)/1.5 (t); Turkey 6-8 oz. 1.6 (p)/.7 (t); Wild game 6-8 oz. 2.6 (p)/1.5 (t).
Acetylcholine
The neurons in the parietal lobes of the brain, which are seated just behind the frontal lobes and on top of the temporal, produce the biochemical acetylcholine which is associated with alpha brain waves, which control brain speed. Acetylcholine is a lubricant which keeps the cells moist so that energy and information passes easily between cells. It is also the building block for the body’s insulation called myelin, which protects the nerves throughout the body.
When acetylcholine levels are balanced your brain operates quickly, one is optimally creative and confident. People with acetylcholine natures are highly innovative, intuitive, flexible and impulsive. Acetylcholine types are very sociable and charming. Relationships are natural to you, unlike dopamine dominants who often have trouble communicating their feelings. Occupations such as therapists, mediators, yoga teachers, social workers, writers, artists and advertising are natural occupations for the acetylcholine type.
Acetylcholine controls the brain’s speed of processing information and is a natural moisturizer that helps cells retain fluids and maintain their membrane coating. All acetylcholine deficiencies lead to dehydration. It is possible to have an overabundance of acetylcholine in which case an individual may feel paranoid and feel that life is taking advantage of them.
Acetylcholine deficiencies can lead to some of the following symptoms and diseases:
* Alzheimer’s disease
* Anxiety
* Dry mouth and cough
* Excessive or frequent urination
* Inflammatory disorders
* Inability to carry out motor commands
* Osteoporosis
* Reading or writing disorders
* Multiple sclerosis
* Bipolar disorder
* Learning disorders
* Mood swings
* Memory disturbance
* Attention problems
* Impaired creativity
* Impaired abstract thinking
Left unchecked a mild to moderate acetylcholine deficiency can lead to a drop in overall health. First one will tend to avoid contact with other people, more tension in your relationships may develop, you will have difficulty managing your schedule, muscles and bones will start to ache, sex will become less enjoyable due to vaginal dryness or difficulty with maintaining and erection. These can be some of the warning signs that acetylcholine levels are dropping.
Nutrition is the key to re-establishing healthy levels of acetylcholine. The B vitamin choline is converted to acetylcholine. Foods highest in choline are: egg yolk, meat, liver and whole grain cereals. My experience with myself and my clients have been that adding 2-3 raw eggs to a fruit smoothie with added flaxseed oil or ground flaxseed meal is a great way to boost numerous nutrients including choline and important antioxidants like vitamins C and E. These antioxidants as well as alpha lipoic acid protect the cell membranes of brain cells from being damaged by toxins and internally generated stress chemistries. One client of mine reversed the vast majority of his MS symptoms by utilizing a diet that included many of these raw-egg shakes.
Other acetylcholine boosters include: phosphatidylcholine and phosphastidylserine – both modified amino acids which help raise acetylcholine levels; DHA – the omega 3 fatty acid; the amino acid taurine; acetyl – L- carnitine and korean ginseng.
Acetylcholine levels can become depleted from the following sources:
· Aluminum toxicity
· Violent and pornographic films and TV shows
· PCBs, chemical fertilizers, pesticides and electromagnetic fields
· Lack of aerobic exercise
Like other neurotransmitter deficiencies a comprehensive program focusing on diet, appropriate supplementation, exercise and lifestyle is the key to balancing your acetylcholine levels.
GABA
Neurons in the brain’s temporal lobes produce the biochemical GABA and their resulting theta brain waves. GABA is the brain’s natural valium providing calmness and aiding in the production of endorphins. When in balance the GABA dominant person is characterized by stability and reliability. These people are team players who thrive on organization and long-term relationships. Homemakers, administrators, technicians, nurses, security officers, accountants, bus drivers are all ideal occupations for GABA natured people. GABA natured people are nurturers and are tend to be very traditional. 50% of the world’s population is GABA dominant so it is very important to understand how to balance this vital brain neurotransmitter.
An excess of GABA can result in a person not taking care of their own needs at the expense of nurturing others.
Early signs that you are may be GABA deficient include: feeling anxious, nervous or irritable. You may start to feel overwhelmed and stressed out. Other symptoms include: allergies, light-headedness, muscle aches. This is just the beginning of what could become serious health problems.
As with all the brain’s neurotransmitters GABA deficiencies affect all four major domains of brain function. Physical, personality, memory and attention issues such as the following can present themselves as GABA deficiencies become more prominent:
* Backache
* Cardiac arrhythmias
* Chronic pain
* Constipation
* Headache
* Hypotension
* Insomnia
* Muscle loss
* Tachiycardia or palpitations
* Urinary frequency
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Guilt or feelings of worthlessness
* Manic depression
* Phobias
* Rage
* Restlessness
* Poor verbal memory
* Difficulty concentrating
* Inability to think clearly
Do these symptoms sound common? Remember 50% of the world’s population is GABA dominant and many millions of these are probably GABA deficient. Many of these symptoms appear in multiple neurotransmitter deficiencies because the neurotransmitters work in pairs. Dopamine and acetylcholine are the electrical “on” switches whereas GABA and serotonin are the electrical “off” switches.
If your GABA deficiency is mild to moderate you should be able to balance it with diet, supplements, exercise and lifestyle modifications. The amino acid glutamine is necessary for the production of GABA. Start with adding foods that are rich in glutamine (Mgs. Per 6-8 oz. serving) such as: almonds 10.3 g., bananas 220 mg., beef liver 6.5 g., brown rice 940 mg., halibut 7.9 g., oats 7.4 g., walnuts 5.4 g., spinach 680 mg..
Additional nutrients to add to your program include: inositol in doses of up to 2-12 grams per day, thiamine 400 mg. per day, niacinamide 100 mg. per day and Pyridoxine 10 mg. per day. Also taking either the herb valerian root or passionflower will boost GABA levels. GABA itself is generally not well absorbed; however, I have found a brand that is easily absorbed.
Aerobic exercise is very important for boosting either GABA, serotonin or acetylcholine. Dopamine is boosted by weightlifting and other anaerobic exercise. Lastly GABA depletion is accelerated by toxic chemicals and metals, especially lead. A hair mineral analysis can tell you if your lead levels are elevated and be brought down with a metal detoxification program.
Serontonin
The brain’s occipital lobes are found near the rear of the brain and control vision and regulate your brain’s ability to rest and resynchronize by producing the biochemical serotonin and its resulting delta brain waves. When your serotonin levels are balanced you can sleep deeply and think rationally, you can enjoy the simple things of life like eating a good meal or going for a walk in nature.
People with a serotonin nature know how to live in the moment. The serotonin type thrives on change and can be impulsive and is not easily deterred. For these people they must enjoy their work or they will start to look for a change. Serotonin types often have excellent hand-eye coordination and mental flexibility. Any occupation that involves operating the most advanced and expensive tools and technology is attractive to serotonin types such as: airline pilots, oil riggers, emergency vehicle drivers, and computer programmers. Increased serotonin levels can often lead one into the more glamorous careers of professional sports, acting and modeling. Serotonin dominance would be helpful for surgeons, chiropractors, detectives, investigators and those who deal with crisis intervention.
Serotonin types are often passionate about their relationships but are tend to be the most independent of the four types and have more difficulty in committed relationships. The serotonin type is interested in excitement whether it is skydiving, mountain climbing or an exciting passionate relationship.
Producing too much serotonin can make one extremely nervous and paranoid. Excessive levels of serotonin can lead to feelings of inadequacy and inferiority and contribute to sadness, depression, anger and desperation for interpersonal relationships which they are, ironically too afraid to attempt.
The early warning signs of serotonin deficiency manifest in symptoms of a disconnect between the mind and body. Some of the symptoms of serotonin deficiency include:
* Allergies
* Hallucinations
* Muscle aches and pains
* Hypertension
* Palpitations
* Urinary frequency
* Light headedness
* Depression
* Codependency
* Loner behaviors
* Impulsiveness
* Phobias
* Rage
* Masochistic tendencies
* Shyness
* Memory loss
* Difficulty concentrating
* Perfectionism
* Restlessness
The early warning signs of a serotonin deficiency may start with a loss of enthusiasm for your favorite activity or a lack of enjoying your favorite foods. Insomnia and lack of productivity may be the next level of manifestation of serotonin deficiency. Finally physical symptoms like weight gain or skin breakouts will get your attention that you have a biochemical imbalance.
In the early stages of deficiency proper diet, supplementation and exercise can correct the serotonin imbalance within a couple of months. The starting point for replenishing your serotinin levels is to eat foods that have plenty of the amino acid tryptophan which the body converts to serotonin. The following foods have high amounts of tryptophan: 1 Avocado (.40 grams), 6-8 oz. of Turkey (.37 grams), 6-8 oz. of Pork (1.00 gram), 1 cup Cottage cheese (.40 grams), 1 cup of wheat germ (.40 grams), 6-8 oz. wild game (1.15 grams).
When you’re deficient in serotonin you will crave simple carbohydrate such as pasta, alcohol and rice as well as salt, all of which promote the release of stored serotonin. It is important to limit one’s alcoholic intake to several drinks per week. The following supplements are helpful for boosting serotonin levels (dosages are dependent on severity of deficiency): Calcium, Magnesium, Fish oils, 5-HTP, melatonin, Passionflower, Pyridoxine, SAM-e, tryptophan, Zinc.
In addition to increasing foods that have high amounts of tryptophan and adding some of the above supplements other serotonin boosting activities include: aerobic exercise 2-3 x per week for 20-30 minutes, prayer, yoga, meditation and chanting which all boost serotonin levels. Avoid foods grown with pesticides which have a particularly adverse effects on serotonin levels.
Then i started reading on the different supplements the the links above suggest for boosting the work of the neurotransmitters when i found a supplement herb it seems to work
Rhodiola rosea-http://www.smart-drugs.net/Rhodiola-rosea.htm
Rhodiola rosea: A Possible Plant Adaptogen
Gregory S. Kelly, ND
Abstract
Rhodiola rosea is a popular plant in traditional medical systems in Eastern Europe and Asia with a reputation for stimulating the nervous system, decreasing depression, enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue, and preventing high altitude sickness. Rhodiola rosea has been categorized as an adaptogen by Russian researchers due to its observed ability to increase resistance to a variety of chemical, biological, and physical stressors. Its claimed benefits include antidepressant, anticancer, cardioprotective, and central nervous system enhancement. Research also indicates great utility in asthenic conditions (decline in work performance, sleep difficulties, poor appetite, irritability, hypertension, headaches, and fatigue) developing subsequent to intense physical or intellectual strain. The adaptogenic, cardiopulmonary protective, and central nervous system activities of Rhodiola rosea have been attributed primarily to its ability to influence levels and activity of monoamines and opioid peptides such as beta-endorphins. (Altern Med Rev 2001;6(3):293-302)
Introduction
Rhodiola rosea ("golden root" or "rose root") is widely distributed at high altitudes in Arctic and mountainous regions throughout Europe and Asia. It is a popular plant in traditional medical systems in Eastern Europe and Asia, with a reputation for stimulating the nervous system, decreasing depression, enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue, and preventing high altitude sickness.1 In addition to Rhodiola rosea, over 200 different species of Rhodiola have been identified and at least 20 are used in traditional medical systems in Asia, including R. alterna, R. brevipetiolata, R. crenulata, R. kirilowii, R. quadrifida, R. sachalinensis, and R. sacra.
Rhodiola rosea has been intensively studied in Russia and Scandinavia for more than 35 years. Although the majority of this research on Rhodiola rosea is unavailable for review, available literature is supportive of its adaptogenic properties. Similar to other plant adaptogens investigated by Russian researchers, such as Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) and Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng), extracts of this plant produce favorable changes in a variety of diverse areas of physiological function, including neurotransmitter levels, central nervous system activity, and cardiovascular function.
Rhodiola rosea has been categorized as an adaptogen by Russian researchers due to its observed ability to increase resistance to a variety of chemical, biological, and physical stressors. Origination of the term adaptogen has been dated to 1947 and credited to a Russian scientist, Lazarev. He defined an "adaptogen" as an agent that allows an organism to counteract adverse physical, chemical, or biological stressors by generating non-specific resistance. Inherent in his definition is the concept that administration of the adaptogenic agent allows an organism to pre-adapt itself in a manner that allows it to be more capable of responding appropriately when diverse demands are eventually placed on it. In 1969, Brekhman and Dardymov proposed specific criteria that need to be fulfilled in order for a substance to qualify as an adaptogen.
Subjecting animals and humans to a period of stress produces characteristic changes in several hormones and parameters associated with the central nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA). HPA changes include an increase in cortisol, a reduced sensitivity of the HPA to feedback down-regulation, and a disruption in the circadian rhythm of cortisol secretion. Central nervous system changes include the stress-induced depletion of catecholamine neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine. An acute increase in beta-endorphin levels is also observed under stressful conditions.
To successfully combat stress and stressful situations, adaptation is required. Adaptation might be best thought of as the ability to be exposed to a stressor, while responding with either decreased or no characteristic hormonal perturbations. Adaptation also implies being prepared to and capable of rapidly reassuming homeostasis after the stressor is withdrawn. As an example, a well-trained athlete can participate in an event that would induce a large HPA perturbation (stress response) in a sedentary person, and yet the athlete will be relatively unaffected. This is a result of adaptation that has occurred during the athlete's training process. Additionally, if athletes are exposed to stressors they were not trained for, hormonal perturbations characteristic of a stress response would be expected; however, this response might not be as great as that found in less fit individuals. Furthermore, after the stress ended, their physiology would be expected to re-establish homeostasis rapidly. This is a result of non-specific resistance to stress gained by virtue of a training-induced higher level of fitness.
The utility of plant adaptogens is analogous to the training an athlete undergoes in order to prepare for competition. Plant adaptogens cause our physiology to begin the adaptation process to stress. When a stressful situation occurs, consuming adaptogens generates a degree of generalized adaptation (or non-specific resistance) that allows our physiology to handle the stressful situation in a more resourceful manner.
As an example of this process, Rhodiola rosea administration promotes a moderate increase in the amount of serum immunoreactive beta-endorphin in rats under basal conditions. This moderate increase is similar to that found when rats are adapted to exercise. When Rhodiola rosea-treated rats were subjected to a 4-hour period of non-specific stress, the expected elevation in beta-endorphin was either not observed or substantially decreased. Consequently, the characteristic perturbations of the HPA were decreased or totally prevented.3 In these rats administration of Rhodiola rosea appears to have generated non-specific resistance and prepared the rats to respond more appropriately to the eventual stressful situation.
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Chemical Composition
The chemical composition and physiological properties of Rhodiola species are to a degree species-dependent, although some overlap in constituents and physiological properties does exist in many Rhodiola species.
Twenty-eight compounds have been isolated from the roots and above-ground parts of Rhodiola rosea, including 12 novel compounds. The roots contain a range of biologically active substances including organic acids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic glycosides. The stimulating and adaptogenic properties of Rhodiola rosea were originally attributed to two compounds isolated from its roots, identified as p-tyrosol and the phenolic glycoside rhodioloside. Rhodioloside was later determined to be structurally similar to the known glycoside salidroside found in several other plant species. Salidroside, rhodioloside, and occasionally rhodosin are used to describe this compound and are considered to be synonyms. Additional glycoside compounds isolated from the root include rhodioniside, rhodiolin, rosin, rosavin, rosarin, and rosiridin. These glycoside compounds are also thought to be critical for the plant's observed adaptogenic properties.1,4
A range of antioxidant compounds have been identified in Rhodiola rosea and related species, including p-tyrosol, organic acids (gallic acid, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid), and flavonoids (catechins and proanthocyanidins).5,6 Significant free-radical scavenging activity has been demonstrated for alcohol and water extracts of Rhodiola sp. and is attributed to the variety of antioxidant compounds.5,6 p-Tyrosol has been shown to be readily and dose-dependently absorbed after an oral dose,7,8 and appears to produce a significant antioxidant8 and modest 5-lipoxygenase inhibitory activity9 in vivo.
Salidroside (rhodioloside), the additional salidroside-like glycoside compounds (rhodiolin, rosin, rosavin, rosarin, and rosiridin), and p-tyrosol are thought to be the most critical plant constituents needed for therapeutic activity.1,2 The contents of salidroside and p-tyrosol in root samples gathered from various areas in China have been shown to range from 1.3-11.1 mg/g and 0.3-2.2 mg/g, respectively.4 These two compounds have been found in all studied species of Rhodiola; however, the other active glycosides, including rosavin, rosin, and rosarin, have not been found in all examined Rhodiola species.5,6 Because of this variation within the Rhodiola genus, verification of Rhodiola rosea by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is dependent on the content of the additional glycosides (rather than salidroside and p-tyrosol); rosavin is the constituent currently selected for standardization of extracts.10
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Proposed Mechanisms of Action
The adaptogenic properties, cardio-pulmonary protective effects, and central nervous system activities of Rhodiola rosea have been attributed primarily to its ability to influence levels and activity of monoamines and opioid peptides such as beta-endorphins.
Oral administration of a water extract of Rhodiola rosea to rats for 10 days modulated biogenic monoamines in the cerebral cortex, brain stem, and hypothalamus. In the cerebral cortex and brain stem, levels of nor-epinephrine and dopamine decreased, while the amount of serotonin increased substantially. In the hypothalamus, the results were reversed with a 3-fold increase in the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine, and a trend toward reduced serotonin levels. It is believed these changes in monoamine levels are a result of Rhodiola rosea inhibiting the activity of the enzymes responsible for monoamine degradation, monoamine oxidase and catechol-O-methyltransferase. It is also believed Rhodiola rosea facilitates the transport of neurotransmitters within the brain.11 In addition to these central effects on monoamines, Rhodiola rosea has been reported to prevent both catecholamine release and subsequent cAMP elevation in the myocardium, and the depletion of adrenal catecholamines induced by acute stress.12
Abstracts of untranslated Russian research indicate that a great deal of the activity of Rhodiola rosea might be secondary to an ability to induce opioid peptide biosynthesis and through the activation of both central and peripheral opioid receptors.3,13-15 Lack of current availability of the complete text of these articles make verification of these effects impossible.
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Experimental Studies
Adaptogenic Activity
Rhodiola rosea appears to offer generalized resistance against physical, chemical, and biological stressors in rats and other animals studied. Evidence also suggests cardioprotective and anticancer benefits in animals.
In the test of swimming "to the limit," Rhodiola rosea administration increased the swimming time of rats 135-159 percent. Working capacity of the rats consistently improved throughout the supplementation period.16
Eggs from the freshwater snail Lymnaea stagnalis were incubated in water extracts of Rhodiola rosea and subsequently exposed to a variety of environmental stressors, including heat shock (43°C for four minutes), oxidative stress (600 ΅M menadione for two hours), and heavy metal-induced stress (one-hour exposure to 150 ΅M copper sulphate or 20 ΅M cadmium chloride). Exposure to these environmental stressors kills 80-90 percent of larvae within four days post-exposure. Pre-incubation with Rhodiola rosea extract afforded a significant degree of non-specific resistance against each of these environmental stressors as measured by rate of survival. While only nine percent of the control population survived exposure to heat shock, approximately 90 percent of snail larvae pre-incubated with Rhodiola rosea (40.5 ΅g/ml) survived. Pre-incubation with Rhodiola resulted in non-specific resistance to oxidative stress (survival of approximately 68 percent) and heavy metal stress (approximately 28-35 percent of larvae survived depending on the metal exposure).10
Two experiments have suggested possible benefit on various aspects of learning and memory in rats under certain experimental conditions. Rhodiola rosea extract administered orally at a dose of 0.1 mL/day for 10 days resulted in a non-significant trend toward protection against impairments in memory, as assessed by step-down passive avoidance, induced by electroshock in rats.17 Rhodiola rosea extract was administered in a single dose of 0.10 mL. Improvements in both learning and memory retention, as determined by using a maze test with negative reinforcement, were observed. Repeated dosing with the same quantity of the extract over a 10-day period generated significant improvement in long-term memory as assessed by the maze test with negative enforcement and the "staircase" method with positive enforcement. However, in this experiment two other doses were tested (0.02 and 1.0 mL) and were found to have no substantial effect on learning and memory.1
This suggests the possibility of an efficacious dose of Rhodiola rosea administration, above and below which beneficial physiological effects might be less likely. In the other experimental conditions investigated (active avoidance with negative reinforcement using a "shuttle box" and passive avoidance using "step down" and "step through") no beneficial effects on either learning or memory were observed with any of the administered doses of Rhodiola rosea.1
Cardioprotective Activity
Rhodiola rosea has been shown to moderate against stress-induced damage and dysfunction in cardiovascular tissue. Treatment with Rhodiola rosea extract prevents the decrease in cardiac contractile force secondary to environmental stress in the form of acute cooling and contributes to stable contractility. In animals, acute cooling leads to a decrease in myocardial contractile activity that partially recovers during the first 18 hours after the cold-stress is removed. This recovery is viewed as only partial, since the heart tissue is incapable of stable contractility during perfusion. Pretreatment with Rhodiola rosea extracts appears to create a beneficial adaptive response in this type of stress. When Rhodiola pretreated rats were exposed to acute cooling, the decrease in contractility was prevented and stable contractility of heart tissue occurred during perfusion.18
Other reports suggest administration of Rhodiola rosea protects cardiovascular tissue from stress-induced catecholamine release12 and mitigates against adrenaline-induced arrhythmias in rats.13,14,19 The antiarrhythmic effect of Rhodiola rosea is suggested to be secondary to an ability to induce opioid peptide biosynthesis13 and related to the stimulation of peripheral kappa-opioid receptors.14
Anticancer Activity
Administration of Rhodiola rosea appears to have potential as an anticancer agent, and might be useful in conjunction with some pharmaceutical antitumor agents. In rats with transplanted solid Ehrlich adenocarcinoma and metastasizing rat Pliss lymphosarcoma, supplementation with Rhodiola rosea extract inhibited the growth of both tumor types, decreased metastasis to the liver, and extended survival times.20 Administration of Rhodiola rosea extract also directly suppressed the growth of and the extent of metastasis from transplanted Lewis lung carcinomas.21 When Rhodiola rosea extract was combined with the antitumor agent cyclophosphamide in these same tumor models, the antitumor and antimetastatic efficacy of drug treatment was enhanced. The authors also commented that, "complete abrogation of the haematotoxicity of cyclophosphamide" was observed.21 The chemotherapeutic drug Adriamycin is known to induce pronounced liver dysfunction, generally reflected by an increase in transaminase levels. In animal experiments, adding Rhodiola rosea extract to a protocol with Adriamycin resulted in an improved inhibition of tumor dissemination (as compared to that found with Adriamycin alone), and the combined protocol prevented liver toxicity.22
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Clinical Studies
Although Rhodiola rosea has been studied in the former Soviet Union for more than 35 years, this research is presently unavailable for review. This makes it impossible to verify the Russian claims of its antidepressant, anticancer, cardioprotective, and central nervous system enhancing properties.23 Available animal evidence seems supportive of a possible role for this plant adaptogen in many of these conditions. Table 2 outlines the conditions suggested to benefit from Rhodiola supplementation.
TABLE 2
* amenorrhea
* asthenia
* cancer
* colds and flu
* depression
* fatigue
* headaches
* hypertension
* insomnia
* schizophrenia
* sexual dysfunction (male)
There have also been claims that this plant has great utility as a therapy in asthenic conditions (decline in work performance, sleep disturbances, poor appetite, irritability, hypertension, headaches, and fatigue) developing subsequent to intense physical or intellectual strain, influenza and other viral exposures, and other illness. 23 Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of the standardized extract of Rhodiola rosea root (SHR-5) provide a degree of support for these claimed adaptogenic properties and indicate possible utility in asthenic conditions induced by overwork or over study. SHR-5 is standardized to contain rosavin (3.6%), salidroside (1.6%), and p-tyrosol (<0.1%).10
Darbinyan et al evaluated the effect of chronic administration of 170 mg of SHR-5 for 14 days on aspects of mental performance and fatigue on 56 healthy male and female physicians (age 24-35) on night duty. Mental performance was evaluated using tests to determine speed of visual and auditory perception, attention capacity, and short-term memory. Based on the results of the battery of tests used, a Fatigue Index was calculated. The trial was divided into three periods: (1) a two-week test period of one SHR-5 or placebo tablet daily; (2) a two-week washout period; and (3) a third two-week cross-over period of one placebo or SHR-5 tablet daily. A statistically significant improvement in Fatigue Index was observed during the first two-week period in the SHR-5 group, and the improved mental performance reverted toward baseline values during the washout period. Administration of SHR-5 for the final two weeks of the six-week night duty period was unable to significantly offset declines in mental performance.24
Spasov et al investigated the effects of SHR-5 on male medical students during an exam period. Forty students were randomized to receive either 50 mg SHR-5 or placebo twice daily for a period of 20 days. The students receiving the standardized extract of Rhodiola rosea demonstrated significant improvements in physical fitness, psychomotor function, mental performance, and general wellbeing. Subjects receiving the Rhodiola rosea extract also reported statistically significant reductions in mental fatigue, improved sleep patterns, a reduced need for sleep, greater mood stability, and a greater motivation to study. The average exam scores between students receiving the Rhodiola rosea extract and placebo were 3.47 and 3.20, respectively. 25
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Dosage and Toxicity
In the two double-blind clinical trials, the dose of a standardized Rhodiola rosea extract ranged from 100-170 mg per day. The content of rosavin consumed in these daily doses is approximately 3.6-6.14 mg. The therapeutic dose of available Rhodiola rosea preparations will vary depending on degree of standardization; however, for chronic administration rosavin content within the above range seems prudent. This would suggest a dose of approximately 360-600 mg Rhodiola rosea daily of an extract standardized for one-percent rosavin, 180-300 mg of an extract standardized for two-percent rosavin, or the dose of between 100-170 mg for an extract standardized for 3.6-percent rosavin. As an adaptogen, chronic administration is normally begun several weeks prior to a period of expected increased physiological, chemical, or biological strain, and continued throughout the duration of the challenging event or activity. When using Rhodiola rosea as a single dose for acute purposes (e.g., for an exam or athletic competition), the suggested dose is three times the dose used for chronic supplementation.
The Russian approach to long-term supplementation with adaptogens generally calls for repeating cycles characterized by short periods of adaptogen administration, followed by an interval with no supplementation.26 Rhodiola rosea has been administered for periods ranging from as little as one day (acute administration) up to four months. Until more specific information is available, a dosing regime following the established patterns used with other plant adaptogens, with periodic intervals of abstinence, seems warranted when Rhodiola rosea is being used chronically.
At the doses administered in the clinical trials, a complete absence of all side effects has been reported. However, preliminary clinical feedback indicates that at doses of 1.5-2.0 grams and above of Rhodiola rosea extract standardized for two-percent rosavin, some individuals might experience an increase in irritability and insomnia within several days. It is possible that other physiological parameters that benefit from a lower dose of Rhodiola rosea extract might be exacerbated by a dose that is inappropriately high and/or sustained for prolonged periods of time.
Evidence on the safety and appropriateness of Rhodiola rosea supplementation during pregnancy and lactation is currently unavailable.
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Conclusion
Consistent with benefits found with other adaptogenic substances, Rhodiola rosea appears to offer generalized resistance to physical, chemical, and biological stressors. Available evidence suggests it can be a suitable substitute in conditions where other adaptogens might be considered. However, Rhodiola rosea also appears to be unique among the currently available adaptogenic herbs and might offer an advantage in some clinical conditions and stressful circumstances. Unlike Korean and Siberian ginseng, which are thought to exert their adaptogenic activity primarily at the level of HPA function,27-29 Rhodiola rosea appears to exert its adaptogenic effects by working centrally and peripherally on monoamine and opioid synthesis, transport, and receptor activity. If this is in fact the case in humans, it suggests the potential for therapeutic utility of Rhodiola rosea in conditions not particularly responsive to administration of ginseng products. It also suggests the possibility of potential synergistic interactions among Rhodiola rosea and other plant adaptogens.
Based on the proposed mechanism of action and available experimental data, Rhodiola rosea appears to offer an advantage over other adaptogens in circumstances of acute stress. A single dose of Rhodiola rosea prior to acute stress produces favorable results and prevents stress-induced disruptions in function and performance. Acute stress tends to initially impact monoamine levels and endorphins, while chronic stress places greater demands on the HPA axis. While this is a generalization and there is obvious overlap in the stress response, Rhodiola does seem to exert a pronounced effect on aspects of the acute stress response. Since many stressful situations are acute in nature, and sometimes unexpected, an adaptogen that can be taken acutely in these circumstances, rather than requiring chronic advance supplementation, could be very useful.
Rhodiola rosea also offers some cardioprotective benefits not associated with other adaptogens. Its proposed ability to moderate stress-induced damage and dysfunction in cardiovascular tissue might make Rhodiola rosea the adaptogen of choice among patients at higher risk for cardiovascular disease.
Since Rhodiola rosea administration appears to impact central monoamine levels, it might also provide benefits and be the adaptogen of choice in clinical conditions characterized by an imbalance of central nervous system monoamines. This is consistent with Russian claims for improvements in depression and schizophrenia. It also suggests that research in areas such as seasonal affective disorder, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome, to name a few clinical conditions, is warranted.
Administration of Rhodiola rosea appears to have potential as an anticancer agent, and might be useful in conjunction with some pharmaceutical antitumor agents. While available evidence is limited to animal models, results appear promising. This is an area that would benefit from additional research.
The clearest indication for Rhodiola rosea administration is for the asthenic condition resulting from acute or chronic overwork, which may manifest as decline in work performance, sleep disturbances, poor appetite, irritability, hypertension, headaches, and fatigue.
Some animal and preliminary clinical evidence suggests the need for a narrow range of therapeutic dosage of Rhodiola rosea, above and below which beneficial physiological effects might be less likely. Because of this, it seems prudent to keep doses at a moderate level both in terms of the quantity and duration of supplementation. While Rhodiola rosea appears to be a promising plant medicine, and has been investigated intensively in Russia, additional research is required before any conclusions with respect to its therapeutic utility can be made.
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References
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