As with any herb, you should be aware that there is a possibility of side effects and you should familiarize yourself with them before you start taking them. Taking Rhodiola Rosea is no exception.
Rhodiola Rosea is a well-known herb and people have been taking it for everything from headaches and migraines to helping them with sexual endurance. It is also used to improve mental awareness, physical strength and endurance. It is also one of the best herbs for treating anxiety.
As much as it helps, you do have to be aware that it does have side effects and ways to reduce or eliminate them.
Some noted Rhodiola rosea sides effects reported are headaches, upset stomach, drowsiness, restlessness, irritability and difficulty sleeping; if you take a prescription such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) then you should make sure not to take Rhodiola at the same time as Rhodiola Rosea has a similar effect as MAOIs.
You should also not take Rhodiola Rosea along with selective serotonin reputake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) as this may increase drowsiness and could prove dangerous if you are driving or handling machinery. Since not much is known about the safety of the use of Rhodiola Rosea by children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding caution should be exercised by this group until its safety has been studied and is best to avoid its use all together.
Most of the side effects of Rhodiola Rosea are the same as seen with any other type of mild stimulants and in higher than usual doses and combined with another stimulant, such as coffee you may experience rapid heartbeat, or heart palpitations.
Due to its stimulant properties persons who have or may have heart problems should either avoid its use or consult with their doctor before taking it as it can cause rapid heartbeat, or heart palpitations.
The majority of symptoms can be avoided by simply taking smaller dosages and gradually increasing dosage and monitoring for the effects.
Eating sweets (sugars) on an empty stomach then taking Rhodiola Rosea can cause you to have the shakes, for this reason it is advisable not to take it when your blood sugar levels are low or on an empty stomach.
To avoid the restlessness and insomnia side effects of Rhodiola Rosea try not to take it in the evening or before going to bed. Always use common sense before taking any herb and check with your doctor especially if on any medications or you have any health issues.