When taken together, ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea may enhance stress management, energy, and well-being.
Adaptogenic herbs are natural substances that may support your body’s ability to adapt to and manage physical and emotional stress. They are thought to help your body maintain balance (homeostasis) in response to various stressors, promoting overall resilience and well-being.
Rhodiola rosea and ashwagandha are two such adaptogens. When used together, they may help to enhance energy, improve mood, and relieve stress.
There is no clear guidance on whether it is safe to mix adaptogenic herbs.
However, Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea L.) and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are commonly found together in herbal supplements for stress.
Ashwagandha and rhodiola are both adaptogenic herbs, which means
Speaking with a healthcare professional before beginning a new treatment is always best. They can advise you on whether it is ok for you to take certain herbal supplements and whether they will react with any medications you may be taking.
Ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea are both popular adaptogenic herbs used in traditional medicine to help the body cope with stress and promote overall well-being. Both herbs may help with stress reduction, cortisol regulation, and mood improvement.
While there is quite a bit of overlap between the herbs, they also have distinct characteristics and benefits.
Here are the main differences between ashwagandha and rhodiola:
| Ashwagandha | Rhodiola | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | associated with | primarily |
| Energizing vs. calming | traditionally calming but can be stimulating for some | typically more energizing, known for combating fatigue and improving mental focus |
| Active compounds | contains withanolides | contains compounds like rosavin and salidroside |
| Unique benefits | focus on sexual health and hormone regulation | emphasizes cognitive enhancement, mental clarity, and energy metabolism. |
| Geographic origin | native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa | thrives in cold regions of Europe and Asia |
Here are some potential benefits of these two adaptogenic herbs:
- Stress reduction: Both herbs may provide enhanced stress relief, helping to manage the physical and psychological effects of stress more effectively.
- Mood regulation: Both herbs have the potential to support mood regulation. Combining them may help stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression related to stress.
- Energy and vitality: Rhodiola is often associated with increased energy, while ashwagandha
supports energy levels and reduces feelings of exhaustion. Together, they may promote greater physical and mental vitality. - Cognitive function: Combining these herbs may enhance cognitive function, including memory and concentration. This can be especially beneficial if you’re experiencing stress-related cognitive issues.
Rhodiola is known for its stimulating and energizing effects. It’s generally best taken earlier in the day, such as in the morning or before lunch, to avoid potential interference with sleep.
Ashwagandha is traditionally associated with a calming and relaxing effect. Some people find it helpful to take ashwagandha in the evening, before bedtime, to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. However, some individuals may also take it in the morning if they want to manage stress throughout the day.
If you’re new to both herbs or uncertain about their effects on your body, you can start by taking them separately at different times of the day. This allows you to assess their individual effects and how they affect your energy levels and sleep.
Some people may experience side effects when taking adaptogenic herbs, such as:
- mood changes (irritability, agitation, depression)
- digestive Issues (e.g., stomach discomfort or diarrhea)
- drowsiness
- low blood pressure
- insomnia
- restlessness
- thyroid effects
When to avoid
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding or chestfeeding, it is recommended to avoid both rhodiola and ashwagandha. This is because the exact effects have not been studied enough.
Using ashwagandha and rhodiola together is thought to be a beneficial combination, as it may offer a synergistic approach to managing stress and promoting overall well-being.
Individual responses vary, so it’s important to start with recommended dosages, monitor your body’s reactions, and seek professional guidance when incorporating these herbs into your health regimen.
