Does Rhodiola Rosea Improve Exercise Performance And Recovery?
Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb, native to high altitude areas, such as East Asia, Central Asia, Siberia, and North America.
It has been studied for its positive pharmacological effects on health, and is known for its ability to reduce fatigue.
A 2022 systematic review, which included 8 randomized controlled trials, investigated the effect of Rhodiola Rosea on outcomes of exercise performance and recovery.
Participants had different levels of baseline training (recreational right through to professional), and supplemented with Rhodiola Rosea or a placebo before an exercise test.
Rhodiola Rosea improved most outcomes of exercise performance and recovery, including:
- Reduction in pain and muscle damage after exercise
- Improved skeletal muscle damage
- Enhanced antioxidant capacity, thereby reducing oxidative stress
- Reduced perceived exertion (RPE) scores
- Improved athletic explosive power
Researchers concluded that Rhodiola Rosea exhibits neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-fatigue and central nervous system stimulating activity effects.
Rhodiola Rosea, as an exercise supplement, has the ability to improve human exercise capacity and a variety of physiological mechanisms, improving the body's resistance to fatigue from exercise.
References
PMID: 35464040
