10 Possible Side Effects Of Rhodiola Rosea (Golden Root)

Rhodiola rosea has some side effects when used improperly, such as dizziness, headaches, and insomnia.

These side effects are often caused by excessive intake or consumption of the herb, which can lead to over-stimulation of the nervous system.

For instance, dizziness can make daily activities like driving or climbing stairs hazardous, while headaches can interfere with work or school performance, and insomnia can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to fatigue, impacting overall quality of life.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Rhodiola rosea if used imporperly.

1. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea causes stomach upset in some individuals.

This is due to its ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and increase gut motility, which can lead to nausea, bloating, and discomfort. Additionally, Rhodiola's adaptogenic properties may cause an initial increase in cortisol levels, further exacerbating digestive issues.

As a result, users may experience stomach upset, particularly during the early stages of supplementation or at high doses.

2. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea induces anxiety attacks due to its unique ability to stimulate the central nervous system and increase levels of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

This can lead to feelings of jitteriness, nervousness, and an overwhelming sense of panic in some individuals, particularly when taken in large doses or without proper acclimation.

As Rhodiola rosea works to enhance mental performance and boost mood, it may inadvertently trigger anxiety responses in certain people.

3. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea increases heart rate due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system and increase norepinephrine levels.

This can lead to a temporary rise in blood pressure and heart rate, causing feelings of anxiety or jitteriness in some individuals.

Rhodiola's adaptogenic properties allow it to counteract stress and fatigue by increasing the body's response to physiological demands, resulting in an increased heart rate as a natural response to its stimulating effects.

4. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea provokes insomnia due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system and increase alertness.

This adaptogenic herb can cause an increase in cortisol levels, leading to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night.

Additionally, Rhodiola rosea's stimulating effects on the brain may disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, making it challenging for individuals to achieve a restful and rejuvenating sleep.

5. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea triggers headaches in some individuals due to its ability to stimulate the central nervous system.

The increase in alertness and energy can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure, which may lead to headaches in those who are prone to them.

Additionally, Rhodiola's ability to enhance mental clarity and focus may also contribute to the development of headaches as it can be overstimulating for some people.

6. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea creates fatigue syndrome when consumed in high doses or for extended periods.

This occurs due to its ability to stimulate the body's natural energy reserves, leading to an overactivation of the adrenal glands and subsequent exhaustion.

Additionally, Rhodiola's adaptogenic properties can cause a sudden increase in energy levels, which may be followed by a crash, leaving individuals feeling drained and fatigued.

7. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea produces dizziness spells when taken in excessive amounts or without proper individual tolerance.

The herb's ability to increase alertness and energy can lead to an imbalance of neurotransmitters, causing a sudden feeling of lightheadedness or vertigo.

Additionally, Rhodiola's stimulatory effects on the nervous system may also contribute to this side effect by disrupting normal blood pressure regulation, further exacerbating feelings of dizziness.

8. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea evokes panic disorder in some individuals due to its stimulating effects on the nervous system.

The plant's ability to increase alertness and energy can overwhelm an already anxious or stressed individual, exacerbating their symptoms of panic disorder.

This may be attributed to Rhodiola's action on serotonin levels, which can fluctuate rapidly and unpredictably, leading to increased feelings of anxiety and unease in susceptible individuals.

9. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea leads to agitation in some individuals due to its ability to increase alertness and energy.

When taken in large doses or by those sensitive to its effects, Rhodiola rosea can cause feelings of anxiety, jitteriness, and irritability. This is likely caused by the plant's stimulation of the central nervous system, which can lead to an increased heart rate and blood pressure.

As a result, people may experience agitation as their body reacts to the plant's energizing properties.

10. Triggers depression episodes

Rhodiola rosea generates tremors in some individuals due to its ability to increase neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin and dopamine, in the brain.

This increased activity can lead to an overstimulation of the nervous system, causing involuntary muscle movements like tremors.

Additionally, Rhodiola's adaptogenic properties may also contribute to this side effect by enhancing the body's natural response to stress and promoting a sense of alertness and energy.