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Rhodiola rosea.

naturopathy rhodiolaRHODIOLA – an amazing herb for increased energy, stamina and mental performance.

Rhodiola rosea also known as rose root, golden root, arctic root and Russian rhodiola, is native to cold northern alpine regions, and is a hardy plant which thrives on rocky slopes. It has been used for centuries in Northern Europe and Scandinavia.

Rhodiola possesses tonic and stimulant properties that increase resistance to stress and disease. It is traditionally believed to give strength and stamina and is known to increase attention span as well as work productivity, providing a dramatic boost in energy levels, increased memory and mental performance. It has been commonly used to treat long-term illness and tiredness due to infection, mood elevation, mental alertness, sports performance, impotence, liver problems and as adjuvant treatment of cancer.

Recent studies have shown that Rhodiola may also be useful in the treatment of binge eating, nicotine withdrawal, erectile dysfunction and infertility.

At Health In The Bay, our Naturopaths use a herbal extract of Rhodiola in liquid herbal medicines which are custom blended for patients. One of the great benefits of mixing a number of herbal remedies into a formula is that it can be made to suit individual requirements. The many beneficial actions of Rhodiola can be enhanced by combining with other suitable herbal medicines. For example:

  • Rhodiola combines well with other herbs that increase resistance to stress and disease such as Siberian ginseng and Withania.
  • Rhodiola combines well with other herbs for Depression and nervous debility such as St John’s Wort and Skullcap
  • Rhodiola combines well with other herbs for male sexual dysfunction such as Tribulus and Saw Palmetto
  • Rhodiola combines well with other herbs for menstrual disorders such as female reproductive tonics Paeonia and Dong Quai
  • Rhodiola combines well with other herbs to make brain tonic and study mixes such as Bacopa and Ginkgo
  • Rhodiola combines well with other herbs for liver problems that protect and restore liver function such as Schisandra and St Mary’s Thistle.

A word of caution: Rhodiola use is not advised for depressed patients with hysteric and phobic symptoms as may occur with bipolar disorder. Concurrent use of stimulants such as caffeine is best avoided. It is important to consult with a qualified Naturopath or herbalist before taking Rhodiola.

 

Are you a Migraine/Headache sufferer?

MeditatingA New Study Shows Acupuncture to be More Effective than Western Medication.

Migraines are a major health and disability problem and are one of the main reasons headache patients will visit a doctor for treatment. A recent survey of migraine patients found Western pharmacological treatment options to be unsatisfactory in their results. Latest studies have shown that Acupuncture has been found to be more effective for treating and preventing migraines than most Western medications.

Frequency of migraines can range from daily headaches to once/month. The symptoms, occurrence and cause of migraines vary widely between each case and it is quite common for patients to be prescribed incorrect medication. This is a serious concern that is linked to development of chronic daily headaches. Interestingly, patients who have received preventative Western medication often report using more over the counter painkillers than those not receiving any preventative medication.

Acupuncture is a safe, effective and pain free alternative to medication. A recent Cochrane systematic review found Acupuncture to be as effective, or possibly more effective than preventative migraine medication. These results were demonstrated through a number of small and large scale randomised trials. Researchers were met with positive results, agreeing that Acupuncture was more superior than the only evidence-based, oral drug for treating chronic migraines. This is great news for migraine sufferers and also practitioners of Acupuncture. Traditional Chinese Medicine is deeply rooted in ancient philosophy whilst always results driven. Although reports of Acupunctures’ efficacy dates back 2000 years, it’s comforting to note that modern, evidence based research is confirming these clinical observations.