Monoamine modulators of herbal origin - Rhodiola rosea L.

Abstract

Rhodiola rosea L. is a traditional herbal medicine used to relieve symptoms of fatigue, enhance mental performance and increase resistance to stress whilst promoting antidepressant, anxiolytic and neuroprotective effects1-6 . Rhodiola’s reported activity on mood and cognition might be effective in the treatment of mild to moderate depression as suggested by numerous studies and clinical trials. Furthermore, subjective user reports indicate reduced side effects when compared to conventional pharmacotherapies. Its adaptogenic efficacy is believed to be associated with biogenic monoamine and opioid synthesis, transport and receptor activity1-6 . The phytochemical composition of Rhodiola is diverse, however, commercial extracts are typically standardised to salidroside and Rosavins only.