Yet, the kinds of anti-anxiety medication in the market have either become ineffective or priced too steeply.

Fortunately we're now hearing of Rhodiola Rosea, the latest natural cure to be named a natural anti-anxiety medication and stress reducer.

Also known as Golden Root, Rhodiola Rosea is a native plant that grows in arctic Siberia. For centuries it has been used by eastern Europeans and Asians for stamina, work productivity, longevity, resistance to high altitude sickness, and to treat fatigue, depression, anemia, impotence, gastrointestinal ailments, infections, and nervous system disorders.

The first recorded medicinal application of rodia riza (renamed Rhodiola Rosea) was made by the Greek physician, Dioscorides, in 77 C.E. in 'De Materia Medica'. Since 1969 Rhodiola Rosea has been included as an official Russian medicine.

However, in spite of its long history, the Western world has only recently become aware of the health benefits of Rhodiola Rosea. Many natural health practitioners have now begun to take notice because of tests which proved its effects on combating anxiety and stress.

Rhodiola Rosea is considered an adaptogen, which means it has an overall stabilizing effect on the body without disrupting other bodily functions. Its ability to normalize hormones may be an effective anti-anxiety medication and can be used also for depression.

Studies have shown that Rhodiola Rosea stimulates neurotransmitters and enhances their effects on the brain, including the ability to process serotonin which helps the body adapt to stress.

Since adaptogens improve the body's overall ability to handle stress, they have been studied so as to identify their effects on biological, chemical and physical factors that cause stress.

In fact, tests were performed to analyze the effects of Rhodiola Rosea on stress caused by intense mental work (such as final exams). These tests concluded that this wonder herb improved the amount and quality of work, increased mental clarity and reduced the effects of fatigue.

The curative effects of Rhodiola Rosea have also been tested on both physical and emotional stress and anxiety. A report by the American Botanical Council states that "Most users find that this natural anti-anxiety medication improves mood, energy level, and mental clarity." They also report on a study that indicated Rhodiola Rosea could increase stress tolerance while at the same time protect the brain and heart from the physical effects of stress.

This report included details of related studies that highlight the overall health benefits of Rhodiola Rosea.

Generally, the recommended dose is 200-600mg/day. The active properties should be a minimum 0.8 percent salidroside and 3 percent rosavin.

It is important for consumers to know that Rhodiola may be sold using other species that do not share the properties of Rhodiola Rosea, or at ineffective strengths for treatment. Anyone with depression or anxiety should also check with a health professional when treating these symptoms.

Looking for a natural anti-anxiety medication? Rhodiola Rosea may just be what you're seeking.

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