Ashwagandha vs. Rhodiola: How do they Differ?
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Time to read 7 min
Stress is an unavoidable part of life, and while we cannot eliminate it, we can manage how we cope with it, both physically and mentally. Ashwagandha and Rhodiola are adaptogenic herbs that can improve the body’s reaction to stress.
While they share several similarities in Rhodiola Rosea with Aswagandha, the two adaptogens are significantly different. The long-term effects of stress on our health can be substantial, but certain supplements and plants can encourage your body to become more resilient to stress.
This article will outline the key differences between Ashwagandha vs Rhodiola and the benefits of each to help you make an informed decision on which is best for you.
What is Ashwaghanda?
Ashwagandha, also known as Winter Cherry, is a plant native to the Middle East and North Africa. It is a powerful adaptogen used medicinally for thousands of years and is now widely sold as a supplement to help manage stress.
What Does Ashwagandha Do?
Ashwagandha helps with stress in several ways. Here we look at the benefits of using Ashwagandha for stress management.
1. Decreases Blood Sugar Levels
Ashwagandha has been proven in recent studies to lower blood sugar levels successfully and can potentially be used as a medication for diabetes.
2. Lowers Cortisol Levels
Cortisol is the stress hormone that increases glucose in the blood when we sense danger or stress. It is the body’s natural alarm system, and high levels have detrimental health implications. Ashwagandha is an effective and natural way of reducing cortisol.
3. Balances Hormones
Ashwagandha can help to balance testosterone levels, which is important for men’s health. It can also enhance fertility by boosting sperm quality.
4. Improve Memory and Focus
With antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Ashwagandha can enhance memory and concentration.
When to Take Ashwagandha
The best time to take Ashwagandha is in the morning, but some people may wish to take it twice daily – in the morning and the evening. It’s best to take it after eating.
How Long Does Ashwagandha Take to Work?
Some people notice results in as little as two days, but usually, you can expect a reduction in anxiety and stress within several weeks.
Does Ashwagandha Have Any Side Effects?
As with any supplement or medication, Ashwagandha has potential but rare side effects. These include:
- Stomach upsets (vomiting or diarrhoea)
- Could be harmful during pregnancy
- Liver issues
- Low blood pressure
- Dry mouth
- Fever
- Allergies
What is Rhodiola Rosea?
Rhodiola Rosea, also known as golden root, arctic root and roseroot, is a plant native to Asia, Europe and North America in cold and mountainous areas. This herb's root is an adaptogen with various health benefits, including stress relief and increased mental performance.
What Does Rhodiola Rosea Do?
Studies have shown that Rhodiola Rosea is effective when used medicinally as a stimulant to help stress resilience and boost physical and mental performance.
The benefits of Rhodiola Rosea include:
Lifts Your Mood
Rhodiola Rosea can ease symptoms of stress and anxiety and boost energy. This leads to better moods.
Sharpens the Mind
Rhodiola Rosea improves mental energy, with people noticing significant changes after a week of taking the supplement.
Improves Physical Energy and Stamina
Stamina can improve, and exercises or activities you once struggled with can become manageable. Rhodiola Rosea can also aid athletic performance.
Increases Libido
Rhodiola Rosea acts on the dopamine system in your brain. We're talking about a potent cocktail of reducing stress, fighting fatigue, and reigniting your libido.
Improves Memory and Focus
By enhancing brain function, Rhodiola Rosea can help to improve memory and concentration.
When to Take Rhodiola Rosea
It is best to take it on an empty stomach and not within a few hours of bedtime, as it has stimulating properties.
Does Rhodiola Rosea Have Any Side effects?
The potential side effects of Rhodiola Rosea are rare and often mild. They include:
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Allergies
- Chest pain
- Increased blood pressure
- Headache
How long does it take for Rhodiola to work?
It works almost instantly, with the average time for results being around 30 minutes. Effects usually last between four and six hours. The onset of effects from Rhodiola can vary among individuals, with some experiencing its benefits within hours of ingestion, while for others, it may take a few weeks of consistent use. Its fast-acting properties are often reported, including increased energy, improved mood, reduced fatigue, and enhanced mental performance. However, Rhodiola's full and more noticeable benefits may develop over time with regular usage.
Ashwagandha vs Rhodiola
Can I take Ashwagandha and Rhodiola together?
Ashwagandha and Rhodiola supplements are two adaptogenic herbs that are commonly used for their potential stress-reducing and energizing effects. While there are no known major interactions between the two, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using Ashwagandha combined with Rhodiola. Both herbs have stimulating properties, so taking Rhodiola Rosea with Ashwagandha together may increase their overall energizing effects, which could lead to restlessness or sleep disturbances for some individuals. Personalized advice from a healthcare provider is crucial to consider individual factors such as health conditions and medications being taken to ensure safe and appropriate usage.
Ashwagandha and Rhodiola for weight loss, do they work?
Ashwagandha and Rhodiola supplements are made from adaptogenic herbs that may indirectly support weight management. While they are not specifically intended for weight loss, they offer potential benefits that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Both herbs are known for their stress-reducing properties, which may help curb emotional eating. Additionally, their energizing effects can increase motivation for physical activity, an important aspect of weight management. Some studies suggest that Ashwagandha may regulate cortisol levels, while Rhodiola may impact appetite and cravings through neurotransmitter balance. However, they should be seen as part of a holistic approach to weight management that includes a balanced diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Ashwagandha vs. Rhodiola: Which is Best for You?
Ashwagandha is the most effective at promoting relaxation and calming stress and anxiety, whereas Rhodiola Rosea is fantastic for increasing energy levels, moods and mental performance. Rhodiola Rosea is the supplement for you if your goal is to improve energy and mood. However, if you are seeking long-term relief from anxiety, Ashwagandha is the ideal solution.
The best way to get Rhodiola
Hyper-U is a premium biotech supplement which contains Rhodiola Rosea as one of its three main ingredients and is specifically designed to enhance mental and physical health while reducing the effects of daily stress and anxiety.
The Rhodiola used in Hyper-U is a very special kind of Rhodiola, 10 times more bioavailable thanks to a patented process which increases its effect and duration.
Supplement Quality is key
When choosing a supplement there are many aspects which should be taken in consideration. The most important is quality. Don't settle for low cost Rhodiola if you want to limit the undesired side effects.
Hyper-U is in fact a unique, DNA based performance supplement designed to enhance mental sharpness, mindfulness, and productivity by using a unique combination of three powerful natural ingredients. It aims to help users perform at their best without relying on caffeine or sugary energy drinks and transform stress into a secret superpower.
The three primary ingredients are RodioX2©, a potent form of Rhodiola that combats burnout and enhances mood, concentration, and mental performance; Phycocyanin, an anti-inflammatory pigment-protein complex that enhances physical performance and strengthens the immune system; and Spiralox©, premium organic Spirulina grown in Sardinia's Blue Zone, which provides antioxidants and helps manage blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol.
Key features of Hyper-U include:
- Unmatched bioavailability for higher bodily absorption,
- Mental support through natural ingredients, sourcing from Italy's Longevity Blue Zone,
- It's Titanium dioxide-free,
- Developed from cutting-edge DNA research.
The composition of each tablet is 100 mg Rhodiola Rosea, 25 mg Phycocyanin, and 225 mg Spirulina, with evidence from hundreds of medical studies backing the effectiveness of its ingredients.
Try it today and start living your best life.
FAQ
"What are the specific scientific studies or clinical trials that support the efficacy of ashwagandha and rhodiola in managing stress and anxiety or in enhancing energy and focus?
For Ashwagandha , several studies have highlighted its efficacy in reducing stress and anxiety. One such study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual's resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life. Another study in the Journal of Dietary Supplements suggests that Ashwagandha may improve energy, reduce fatigue, and better manage stress by lowering cortisol levels, which is often referred to as the stress hormone.
Rhodiola Rosea , on the other hand, has been studied for its potential to enhance physical and mental performance under stress. A review in the journal Phytomedicine noted that Rhodiola might improve physical performance, reduce fatigue, and help with stress-induced disorders by modulating stress responses.
Are there any known interactions between ashwagandha or rhodiola and medications or other supplements?
Both Ashwagandha and Rhodiola have potential interactions with medications and other supplements. Ashwagandha may interact with sedatives, immunosuppressants, and thyroid hormone pills, potentially affecting their efficacy or side effects. Rhodiola may also interact with antidepressants, anticoagulants, and antiplatelet drugs, posing risks of enhanced effects or adverse reactions. It's crucial to consult healthcare providers before combining these herbs with other medications or supplements.
What are the recommended dosages for ashwagandha and rhodiola to achieve their respective benefits?
The effective dose can vary depending on the specific health goals and the product's concentration. For Ashwagandha , dosages used in studies often range from 250 to 600 mg daily, tailored to stress relief and improving sleep quality. For Rhodiola , clinical trials frequently use doses ranging from 200 to 600 mg daily, targeting improvements in energy, mental performance, and stress management.
It's important to start with the lower end of the dosage range and adjust based on personal tolerance and effectiveness. Also, given the variability in supplement formulations, following the manufacturer's recommendations and consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable for personalized advice.
how long does ashwagandha take to work for anxiety?
The effectiveness of ashwagandha for anxiety can vary depending on individual factors such as dosage, frequency of intake, and overall health condition. While some people may experience noticeable improvements in anxiety symptoms within a few weeks of consistent use, it's essential to note that ashwagandha's effects may not be immediate for everyone. Patience and regularity in consumption are often recommended to allow the herb's adaptogenic properties to gradually build up in the body, promoting a more balanced response to stress and anxiety over time. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on dosage and expectations can provide valuable insight into the timeline for experiencing the benefits of ashwagandha specifically for anxiety management.
