The queen of our garden is Rhodiola rosea. It is a slow-growing plant belonging to the stonecrop family (Crassulaceae). For several thousand years, it has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as in the healing traditions of northern peoples — highly valued for reducing nervousness and restlessness, restoring energy and joy of life, and supporting the immune system and mental performance.

Today, Rhodiola rosea is gaining increasing attention as a plant that may help reduce stress, support energy levels and cognitive performance, and is also being researched in connection with weight regulation. The body of research on Rhodiola rosea and its effects is impressive.

Global demand for Rhodiola products is growing by at least 9% per year. Unfortunately, this has led to increasing exploitation of natural wild populations and the adulteration of genuine Rhodiola rosea in high-priced products. Around 70% of Rhodiola rosea currently on the market originates from China. Scientists are already warning of the possible extinction of this species in the wild.

For this reason, enthusiasts across the Northern Hemisphere have begun cultivating Rhodiola themselves. This is a demanding process — Rhodiola grows slowly, requiring seven years from sowing to harvest. It involves intensive and careful manual work. Yet this remarkable plant is well worth the effort.

Why is the Rhodiola grown in Upmaļi special?

The effectiveness of Rhodiola is largely determined by the concentration of rosavins and salidroside in the root. Wild-growing Rhodiola plants vary greatly in the levels of these active compounds. Our organically cultivated Rhodiola rosea has been propagated vegetatively from a single plant for more than 30 years, ensuring a nearly constant composition of active compounds over time.

Analyses show that our Rhodiola contains particularly high concentrations of rosavins and salidroside. The delicate rose-like aroma of our products is also considered an indicator of a high rosavin content. Rosavins, in particular, support the nervous system and promote mental well-being.

How to use Rhodiola

The fastest, most convenient, and most effective way is in tincture form. Absorption of active compounds begins already in the mouth rather than in the digestive tract. The extraction process results in a highly concentrated plant extract.

The tincture has a pleasant rose aroma and can also be added to morning tea. Its effects during physical exertion are often noticeable almost immediately.

When consumed as a tea — including blended teas containing Rhodiola — the effect is milder and develops more slowly, with enjoyment taking center stage. Tea can be refined with honey, lemon, or, in winter, cloves and ginger.

Rhodiola products with a strong energizing effect should be taken in the morning or before midday. For the evening, we recommend calming and sleep-supporting tinctures (“Evening Herbs Complex”, “Meadowsweet Tincture”) or teas (“Evening Calm”, “Immunea Mix”).

Learn more about Rhodiola rosea in our blog.