Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Rhodiola sacra, a species closely related to Rhodiola rosea, has been traditionally used in Tibetan and Chinese medicine for enhancing physical endurance and reducing fatigue. Recent scientific studies, primarily conducted on related Rhodiola species (especially R. rosea), have begun to substantiate these traditional uses. Human and animal studies indicate that Rhodiola extracts may improve exercise performance by reducing perceived exertion, enhancing oxygen utilization, and mitigating exercise-induced muscle damage. The proposed mechanisms include modulation of stress-response pathways, antioxidant activity, and effects on energy metabolism (such as increasing ATP synthesis).

While clinical trials specifically on Rhodiola sacra are limited, available research demonstrates that supplementation with Rhodiola (often not distinguishing species) can increase time to exhaustion, improve recovery, and decrease biomarkers of physical fatigue. For example, several placebo-controlled studies using Rhodiola rosea extract have reported improved endurance exercise capacity and faster recovery in both amateur and elite athletes. Animal studies with R. sacra extract have shown improved swimming performance in mice, likely due to its adaptogenic and antioxidative properties.

Overall, the use of Rhodiola sacra for athletic and exercise support is justified by both traditional use and a growing, though not yet robust, body of scientific evidence. The evidence base is moderate (rated 3/5) due to the predominance of studies on related species and the need for more rigorous, species-specific human trials.

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