Rhodiola rosea is also called rose or golden root. The plant received the last name due to the roots, which have a bronze or gilded hue. It is a perennial herb belonging to the species Rhodiola, a family of bastards.
It should be noted that this plant is quite rare and is listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation. It is protected in all areas of growth, with the exception of the Krasnoyarsk Territory, Altai, Magadan and the Republic of Tyva.
Habitat and seasonality
Rhodiola rosea can be found in areas with cold and temperate climates. Including, in North America, Great Britain, Ireland, Alps, Pamirs.
On the territory of Russia, it is found in the Altai Territory, the Urals, Yakutia. Prefers Siberia, the Far East, mountainous regions, as well as the coasts of the Barents and White seas.
Color from June to July. Ripens from July to August.
Description
Forms a strong horizontal root system and thin adventitious roots. As a rule, it has erect, branched stems. On one copy, you can find 10-15 pieces, but sometimes you can find Rhodiola pink with only one stem.
The height of the plant can vary from 10 to 40 cm. The deciduous cover of the plant is sedentary, alternate. The shape of the leaves is oblong, ovoid, elliptical or pointed. Solid or scalloped edges at the top.
The inflorescence is corymbose. Produces multiple yellow flowers. As a rule, they have four or five members. It is extremely rare to find a plant with five-membered inflorescences.
The plant assumes the presence of erect, multi-leafed fruits of a greenish tint. Propagated by vegetative and seed methods.
Rhodiola rosea does not require special conditions in relation to heat and light. However, to ensure active growth, certain humidity conditions and the presence of flow irrigation are required.
Medicinal properties
Scientists have found that the part of the plant hidden underground contains approximately 140 components. Therefore, rhodiola is very valuable in medicine and is included in various medicinal products.
An alcohol-based extract is used to restore the functioning of the central nervous system. He actively fights neurasthenia, fatigue, apathy. Applicable in the treatment of diseases of vegetative-vascular dystonia. Often used by psychiatrists. It is part of a rehabilitation program after the treatment of somatic and infectious diseases.
The plant is also useful as a component of medicines used in the home treatment of bone fractures. It is used in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, for skin diseases, as an analgesic and antipyretic.
Gossipentin and rhodiolflavonosin in the composition of the plant demonstrate an antiseptic effect. It is effective in Staphylococcus aureus and stops the activity of cancer cells in the representative gland.
The hydroalcoholic setting is used in the fight against drug addiction, reducing the patient’s addiction to substances and the urge to use. Demonstrates good effect in combating opium addiction.
The root extract is characterized by stimulating properties. It is able to significantly increase efficiency, resist fatigue with prolonged brain and physical activity.
Contraindications
Preparations and medicines based on the root of Rhodiola rosea are not recommended for use at high pressure and temperature, with emotional arousal. In the latter case, it is recommended to rest, suppressing emotional outbursts, and then apply the drug, otherwise the effect will intensify and the drug will not have the desired effect.
