null Skip to main content

Comparing Rhodiola Rosea Extracts: Rosavins vs. Salidroside

Learn about the differences between Rhodiola rosea and Rhodiola crenulata, along with the differences between the active compounds salidroside and rosavins.

Rhodiola Rosea Extracts: Comparing Rosavin and Salidroside

 

Rhodiola rosea, more commonly known as golden root or rose root, is a perennial flower indigenous to many cold regions of the world; including the Arctic, Central Asia, and mountainous areas in Europe. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, through which it has been touted for its potential to support cognitive function and promote energy.

Research reveals that there are two primary compounds that contribute to Rhodiola rosea’s possible effects: salidroside and a combination of compounds called rosavins. The amounts and ratios of these active compounds in the various Rhodiola extracts determine how that extract affects the body. Certain Rhodiola extracts can be stimulating, while other extracts feel more calming or sedating. Let’s take a closer look at these compounds, and their role in the rhodiola rosea root.

 

Rhodiola Rosea Extracts: Comparing Rosavin and Salidroside

Rhodiola rosea, more commonly known as golden root or rose root, is a perennial flower indigenous to many cold regions of the world; including the Arctic, Central Asia, and mountainous areas in Europe. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, through which it has been touted for its potential to support cognitive function and promote energy.

Research reveals that there are two primary compounds that contribute to Rhodiola rosea’s possible effects: salidroside and a combination of compounds called rosavins. The amounts and ratios of these active compounds in the various Rhodiola extracts determine how that extract affects the body. Certain Rhodiola extracts can be stimulating, while other extracts feel more calming or sedating. Let’s take a closer look at these compounds, and their role in the rhodiola rosea root.

Rhodiola Rosea Extracts: Comparing Rosavin and Salidroside

Rhodiola rosea, more commonly known as golden root or rose root, is a perennial flower indigenous to many cold regions of the world; including the Arctic, Central Asia, and mountainous areas in Europe. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, through which it has been touted for its potential to support cognitive function and promote energy.

Research reveals that there are two primary compounds that contribute to Rhodiola rosea’s possible effects: salidroside and a combination of compounds called rosavins. The amounts and ratios of these active compounds in the various Rhodiola extracts determine how that extract affects the body. Certain Rhodiola extracts can be stimulating, while other extracts feel more calming or sedating. Let’s take a closer look at these compounds, and their role in the rhodiola rosea root.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a herb that belongs to the night shade family of plants. The nightshade family of plants is a very interesting one and includes a lot of vegetables that make up large parts of many diets. Notable nightshade members are potatoes, tomatoes, chili peppers, goji berries and even tobacco! Another name for the nightshade family is Solanaceae. This is where  Ashwagandha gets its Latin name from; Withania somnifera. Ashwagandha is a short perennial shrub, with a large root system that develops small deep orange fruits. The fruits resemble a small cherry and the leaves look frosty due to the many tiny hairs that are on them. This one of the reasons why Ashwagandha is also referred to as ‘winter cherry’. Traditionally, the Ashwagandha root is used, however new research has found high concentrations of key components in the leaves too. Various manufacturers have taken notice of this. One of the most notable being  Natreon who produce a specialized extract of Ashwagandha called Sensoril.  Sensoril is made from the leaves of Ashwagandha, giving it a unique chemical composition, which produces noticeable calming effects.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a herb that belongs to the night shade family of plants. The nightshade family of plants is a very interesting one and includes a lot of vegetables that make up large parts of many diets. Notable nightshade members are potatoes, tomatoes, chili peppers, goji berries and even tobacco! Another name for the nightshade family is Solanaceae. This is where Ashwagandha gets its Latin name from; Withania somnifera. Ashwagandha is a short perennial shrub, with a large root system that develops small deep orange fruits. The fruits resemble a small cherry and the leaves look frosty due to the many tiny hairs that are on them. This one of the reasons why Ashwagandha is also referred to as ‘winter cherry’. Traditionally, the Ashwagandha root is used, however new research has found high concentrations of key components in the leaves too. Various manufacturers have taken notice of this. One of the most notable being Natreon who produce a specialized extract of Ashwagandha called Sensoril. Sensoril is made from the leaves of Ashwagandha, giving it a unique chemical composition, which produces noticeable calming effects.


What are Rosavins?

Rosavins are a collection of compounds which include, rosavin, rosin, and rosarin. They are known as a cinnamyl alcohol glycosides belonging to a group of compounds known as phenylpropanoids. They are amongst the main active phytochemical components in Rhodiola rosea, but studies remain inconclusive on how they specifically operate and their mechanisms of action. Some research suggests that rosavins may not be effective on their own, but must be combined with other more powerful compounds, like salidroside, to exhibit potential effects.

Research suggests that rosavin in Rhodiola rosea may support healthy stress levels. Rosavin may also act as an active compound that supports weight loss. Studies show that rosavin may potentiate hormone-based lipase, an enzyme that can break down adipose tissue, or fat, particularly around the midsection. This break down of stomach fat may be promoted when rosavin is combined with exercise.


What is Salidroside?

Alternately known as rhodioloside, salidroside is considered the more powerful component in Rhodiola rosea. Some studies even suggest salidroside may be more active than rosavin. Salidroside is a glucoside form of tyrosol, and can also be found in Rhodiola crenulata, a species related to Rhodiola rosea found specifically in China. Salidrosides have also been found in other unrelated plants species.

Research identifies that salidroside may have a variety of positive effects throughout your body. Some studies show that salidroside may have adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens refer to any compound that may help your body adapt to the physical drawbacks associated with stress as well as maintaining homeostasis. Salidroside may also support nerve health. Studies suggest that salidroside may promote nerve repair processes, regulate the release of neurotransmitters, and protect cells. One study found that salidroside may protect nerve cells from toxins and other harmful substances while promoting cognitive function. Salidroside has also been found to potentially support skeletal health as well. A study tested the effects of an isolated salidroside extract on bone. The study found that salidroside may protect against oxidative stress. This suggests that salidroside may support bone development.


Salidroside and Rosavin in Rhodiola Rosea Extracts

Many of the studies surrounding Rhodiola rosea focus on the nootropic as a whole, and the way its different phytochemicals and compounds like rosavin and salidroside work together. Studies show that one of the main mechanisms of action for Rhodiola rosea extract may involve its regulation of monoamine oxidase. Monoamine oxidase comprises a family of enzymes bound to the outer membrane of mitochondria. The various subtypes of monoamine oxidase are all involved in the oxidative breakdown of various components and neurotransmitters in your system, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.

By blocking monamine oxidase enzymes, Rhodiola rosea can lead to a significant modulation of certain neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and dopamine. Along with contributing to the body’s natural cyclic processes, serotonin is responsible for regulating emotions like happiness. Dopamine is responsible for a variety of functions, including movement and emotional response, but it is best known for controlling motivation, reward, and the brain’s pleasure centers. By promoting both dopamine and serotonin, Rhodiola rosea may support healthy stress levels and promote feelings of well-being. The supported serotonin and dopamine may also promote your attention, concentration, and overall cognitive function. Rhodiola rosea may also promote focus and mental energy.

Along with its effects on certain neurotransmitters, Rhodiola rosea has been studied for its potential to regulate cortisol. Cortisol is released during periods of physical or emotional stress. Cortisol may interfere with a healthy immune system and the normal metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, Rhodiola rosea may support healthy cortisol and stress levels. These adaptogenic benefits of Rhodiola rosea may also support a healthy night's sleep, which offers its own wide range of potential benefits such as promoting cognitive function. While many studies suggest that salidroside is the more powerful Rhodiola rosea supplement, both salidroside and rosavins play a key role in the potential effects of Rhodiola rosea extract.


Summary of Rhodiola Rosea Benefits

Sold out

Sold out

✔ Supports Healthy Stress Levels*

✔ Promotes Metabolic Function*

✔ Supports Balanced Oxidation Levels*

✔ Promotes Cognitive Function*

✔ Standardized to 3% Rosavins+ 1% Salidroside*


Sold out

Sold out

✔ Supports Healthy Stress Levels *

✔ Helps Promote Energy and Stamina*

✔ Supports Exercise Recovery*

✔ Helps Support Cognitive Function

✔ Standardized to 3% Salidroside*


A New Species on the Market: Rhodiola crenulata

There appears to be about 60-90 species of rhodiola. The main rhodiola species of interest is Rhodiola rosea as it contains both high concentrations of salidroside and rosavins. However, Rhodiola rosea is in short supply these days, with increasing costs, and thus different species are being falsely sold as Rhodiola rosea. This adulturation is happening all over the industry. Due to the fact that we perform species testing on all of our plant extracts, we discovered that one particular batch of “Rhodiola rosea” that was sent to us contained lots of salidroside, no rosavins, and the HP-TLC species testing indicated it was not Rhodiola rosea. This made us scratch our heads quite a bit. How could one of the compounds of interest be showing up, while the other compound of interest was not at all present, in addition to it not even being the plant we were looking for?

We dug through some research and found another fairly common species of rhodiola that has also seen extensive use in traditional medicine in China and Tibet. This species is called Rhodiola crenulata, and it doesn’t contain any rosavins. Instead it contains high concentrations of salidroside and p-tyrosol, the stimulating and mood elevating compounds that are also present in Rhodiola rosea. We retested the batch that was sent to us, and discovered that we had actually been sent Rhodiola crenulata. We then evaluated whether or not Rhodiola crenulata would be a worthwhile extract, and we quickly came to the conclusion that it could be advantageous to carry a Rhodiola crenulata extract in addition to a Rhodiola rosea extracts we already had. The reason for this is that the absolute lack of rosavins makes this extract much better for individuals who respond particularly well to just salidroside. The extract will be better suited to athletes looking to curb exercise fatigue, and for individuals wanting just an energy boost. For those that are looking for a more well rounded effect profile, the Rhodiola rosea will still be the preferred extract due to it containing rosavins. As always, each plant has its own unique effects and benefits. The issue comes from when supplement companies mislabel products in an attempt to save money. We feel Rhodiola crenulata is unique enough to stand on its own, and shouldn't be mislabeled at something it is not.


Sold out

Sold out

✔ Supports Healthy Stress Levels*

✔ Promotes Energy*

✔ Helps Promote Nerve Health*

✔ Supports Cognitive Function*

✔ Standardized to 3% Salidroside*


"Research has shown that magnesium levels are decreasing in most foods... With the magnesium content decreasing in crops and the increase in the consumption of processed foods, magnesium deficiencies in the population are becoming more prevalent."

THE BORING STUFF NOBODY READS BUT PROBABLY SHOULD

**SCOOPS: Nootropics Depot does not provide scoops or spoons with any of our products. Scoops are highly unreliable for accurate measuring. Mama didn't raise no fool! Scoops measure volume rather than weight, which is problematic because all powders have different densities. You wouldn't use a spoon to weigh yourself, would you? A milligram scale is needed to accurately measure powder products. Tools set us apart from the animals.

WARNING: Keep all supplements out of reach of children. Kids are short and stupid, so that should be easy for you. Do not take any supplement if under the age of 18, pregnant or nursing a baby (or an adult for that matter), or if you have any known or suspected medical conditions, and/or taking prescription drugs or over the counter medications.

*DISCLAIMER: Always consult with a qualified health physician before taking any new dietary supplement. If you can't find a qualified one, try an unqualified one. The products and statements found on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. You hear that FDA? We are not talking about diseases! These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, nor would we want them to.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USING NOOTROPICSDEPOT.COM: The most exciting page on our website, apart from the sitemap! You can review the terms and conditions of using NootropicsDepot.com by clicking here. We know you won't, though. We will just mock you for it later.

PRIVACY POLICY: The second (third?) most exciting page on our website. You can review our privacy policy by clicking here. Nothing is private anymore. Literal babies have Instagrams now.

READ MORE NOOTROPICS DEPOT BLOGS

Andrographis paniculata for Immune Health & Pain Management

Top Magnolia Bark Benefits

Shoden | The Most Potent Ashwagandha We've Tested

Green Tea For Our Brain, Mood, & Metabolism

When Should I Take My Supplements?

Tongkat Ali | Everything You Need To Know Before You Buy

The Top 5 NMN Benefits

CuroWhite | A Stain-Free & Odorless Curcumin

Why Choose Pomella Pomegranate Extract?

TeaCrine: A Detailed Guide To This Long-Lasting Theacrine Supplement For Energy And Focus

MicroMag: A Novel and Highly Bioavailable Magnesium Supplement

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Mushroom Extracts

Injuv®: A Clinically-Studied Hyaluronic Acid Supplement For Youthful Looking Skin

Kaneka Ubiquinol: Introducing A Bioavailable and Crystal-Free Reduced CoQ10 Supplement

Chocamine: A Cocoa Extract For Memory, Focus, and Concentration

The Top Benefits of Polygala tenuifolia

The Top Benefits of Lemon Balm

The Top Benefits of Uridine

The Top Nootropic Mushroom Extracts

The Top Benefits of Gotu Kola Extract

The Top Benefits of L-Theanine

The 5 Best Sleep Supplements That Aren't Melatonin

The Best Supplements for Collagen Synthesis

Dynamine Methyllberine For Energy, Mood, and Motivation

The Top Benefits of Ashwagandha

CoQSol-CF: The Superior CoQ10 Supplement

The Top Benefits of Milk Thistle

The Top Benefits of Taurine

Did You know Your Melatonin Supplement May Be Overdosed?

The Top 5 Immune Supplements

EpiCor: The Immune Supplement You May Not Know About

The Top Benefits Of Black Seed Extract

Magnesium Glycinate vs. Magnesium L-Threonate: Which Is The Best For You?

Teacrine: A Natural Alternative To Caffeine

The Top Benefits for 7,8-DHF

Creatine As Nootropic

What You Need To Know Before You Buy A Curcumin Supplement

Comparing Rhodiola Rosea and Crenulata Extracts

The Top Benefits of Berberine

Lion's Mane Mushroom: Comparing Our 1:1 and 8:1 Extracts

Nitric Oxide Boosters Compared: L-Citrulline vs. Agmatine vs. AAKG

Red Reishi Mushroom: Comparing Our 1:1 and 8:1 Extracts

The Top Anti-Aging Supplements

Cordyceps militaris: Comparing Our 1:1 and 10:1 Extracts

Bacopa monnieri: Bacognize vs. Synapsa

The Nootropic Synergy of Caffeine and L-Theanine

L-Citrulline vs. L-Citrulline DL-Malate

A Look At PrimaVie Shilajit Extract

A Look At Nootropics Depot's Purity Testing

The Ultimate Guide to Choline Supplements

The Ultimate Guide to Fish Oil Supplements

Palmitoylethanolamide And Its Pain Management Benefits

The Ultimate Guide to Adaptogen Supplements

The Ultimate Guide to Mushroom Extracts

What You Might Not Know About Panax Ginseng

Ashwagandha: KSM-66 vs. Sensoril

About Nootropics Depot

Nootropics Depot Logo

Nootropics Depot is an online-based vendor of high quality nootropics, novel plant extracts, amino acids, fish oil, choline supplements, vitamins, and more based in Tempe Arizona. We were founded in 2013 with one mission: to revolutionize the lab testing and quality control standards of the supplement industry. We realized the industry needed a trusted source for these products, and consumers needed someone to champion the change the supplement industry needs. We have our own in-house analytical testing lab with some of the best analytical chemists in the supplement industry. We are constantly striving to advance and improve the purity and analytical standards of not only the nootropics industry, but the larger supplement industry as a whole.