Throughout my career as an athletic trainer, I've worked with clients struggling with focus due to a lack of sleep and chronic fatigue. And while adequate sleep and hydration can solve these issues, it doesn't always work.
However, adding natural cognitive enhancers like Rhodiola Rosea supplements can do magic. But not all supplements can produce this effect as some are of low quality and purity.
In this review, we reveal our ten best Rhodiola supplements on the market. Keep reading to learn which one might be most suitable for you.
Let’s begin.
The Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplements
- Best Overall Rhodiola Rosea Supplement: Nootropics Depot
- Cheapest Rhodiola Rosea Capsules: Double Wood Organic
- Best Organic Rhodiola Rosea Powder: Pure Organic by Micro Ingredients
- Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplement for Vegans: NOW Rhodiola
- Fastest Absorbing Rhodiola Rosea Liquid Drops: Herb Pharm Rhodiola
- Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplement for Athletes: Nootropics Depot
- Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplement for Stamina: NutraChamps
Our 10 Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplements (April 2024)
1 - Nootropics Depot Rhodiola Rosea Capsules (Best Overall & for Athletes)
- Rhodiola root extract : 500 mg (one capsule serving size)
- Rosavins (3%), Salidrosides (1%)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Very convenient to take
- Assists in building stress resilience
- Helps fight fatigue
- Improves athletic performance
Cons
- It may not be suited for people who do very high-intensity workouts
Our first pick is the Rhodiola Rosea capsules from Nootropics Depot. The first time I tried this supplement, I was impressed with the level of stimulation. It was neither too intense, nor too mild; just the right balance to get me through my training sessions.
Furthermore, since it comes in capsule form, increasing your capacity for stress and fatigue resistance becomes extremely handy, making it ideal for people who are always on the go.
Nootropic Depot capsules have been extracted from Rhodiola, an ancient traditional medicine found in Asia and Europe that was used to combat stress, fatigue, and altitude sickness, and to enhance physical strength as per reports by the National Library of Medicine [1].
We liked Nootropics Depot because it provided us with the physical energy and mental clarity we needed without being overpowering, just enough to boost our concentration while working out and carrying out the most demanding cognitive tasks.
Supplement Facts
2 - Double Wood Organic Rhodiola Rosea Capsules (Cheapest Option)
- Rhodiola root extract : 500 mg (one capsule serving size)
- Rosavins (1%), Salidrosides (3%)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps the body adapt to stress
- Improve cognition and mood
- Easy to consume
Cons
- Some consumers find it too intense
The next product on our list is Double Wood's organic, pure Rhodiola Rosea extract. This supplement is ideal for vegans who work long hours but still want to have enough energy to work out or connect with friends at the end of the day.
It contains a good amount of salidroside, an active compound in Rhodiola that has been shown by studies published on Dovepress to improve cognition, among many other benefits [2].
This high concentration enables people to maximize physical and mental energy levels for extended periods. Since it's also in capsule form, you can take it anywhere, at any time.
Taking Rhodiola Rosea from Double Wood provided us with extra energy when we needed to accomplish more reps and longer sessions. In addition, we noticed that we felt less tired after long workouts.
Supplement Facts
3 - NutraChamps Rhodiola Rosea Capsules (Best for Stamina)
- Siberian Rhodiola root extract : 600 mg (two capsules serving size)
- Rosavins (3%), Salidrosides (1%)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Clean, all-natural, allergen-free formulation
- Gradually enhances mood and focus
- Helps support healthy stamina
Cons
- Some consumers find it costly and inconvenient to take
NutraChamps, like our first supplement, is standardized to 3 percent rosavin and 1 percent salidroside, making it ideal for those seeking a mild boost in mental clarity and physical stamina.
However, this supplement has a smaller serving size of 300 mg extract per capsule, so consumers must take two of them each day to meet the recommended amount for optimal results.
We liked how it gradually increased our mental and physical energy, but taking two capsules instead of one can be more expensive and inconvenient.
Supplement Facts
4 - Thorne Research - Rhodiola
- Rhodiola Rosea extract : 100 mg (one capsule serving size)
- **Also contains Leucine and Silicon Dioxide.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It may help to accelerate muscle building due to its added leucine
- Promotes deep sleep
- Enhances focus and workout performance
Cons
- Taking two to three capsules per day might be pricey and inconvenient
The next Rhodiola supplement that we've tested is from Thorne Research, a trusted manufacturer of high-quality supplements for more than 30 years.
Thorne Research's Rhodiola Rosea contains scientifically studied ingredients designed to balance serotonin and dopamine to improve body and brain functions.
However, the label doesn't say how much salidroside this supplement has, indicating that it isn't standardized.
A few of my clients used this product for several months, and they reported increased mental stamina and faster muscles recovery.
Supplement Facts
5 - Pure Organic Rhodiola Rosea Powder by Micro Ingredients (Best Organic)
- Organic Rhodiola extract 400 mg (one scoop serving size)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Boosts strength and energy levels
- Helps reduce symptoms of depression
- Easy to mix with plain water or any beverage
Cons
- The powder has a strong flavor on its own
As with other supplements on the list, the pure organic Rhodiola Rosea root powder by Micro Ingredients is designed to improve physical, emotional, and mental energy.
What’s important to point out is that this particular USDA Organic Rhodiola powder supplement is antioxidant-rich and free of hormones, allergens, and unnecessary fillers, making it a perfect option for people who live a clean, healthy lifestyle.
Most people in my team who tested this one immediately felt more relaxed and collected during the first week of taking it. But we must say that we needed to mix it in my tea and add lemon to improve the taste.
Supplement Facts
6 - NOW Rhodiola (Best for Vegans)
- Rhodiola root extract : 500 mg (one capsule serving size)
- Rosavins (3%), Salidrosides (1%)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Improves energy levels without jitters
- Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Non-GMO and manufactured in a GMP facility
Cons
- Some consumers who took two capsules per day reported difficulty falling asleep
Now's Rhodiola supplement is specially designed for people who follow a vegan diet. Its extract is also standardized to contain at least 3 percent rosavin and 1 percent salidroside, ensuring efficacy.
When consumed once or twice a day, this supplement has been shown to improve stress tolerance by minimizing symptoms of depression, increasing focus, and enhancing mood.
My clients took two capsules every morning before going to the gym, and they claimed it worked great with their pre-workout.
This combination gave them a lot of strength and energy and a great sense of focus and calm.
Supplement Facts
7 - Herb Pharm Certified Organic Rhodiola (Fastest Absorbing)
- Rhodiola extract 685 mg (0.7 ml serving size)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fast-acting
- Certified organic and vegan friendly
- Promotes faster post-workout recovery
Cons
- Preparation is inconvenient on the go
Herb Pharm is the only liquid form Rhodiola supplement on the list. This gluten-free, certified organic liquid extract is quickly absorbed and gives you a boost in energy and mood quite rapidly.
However, mixing 30 to 40 drops in a small amount of water and taking them three to four times a day may be inconvenient for those who lead a hectic lifestyle.
In our experience, we found it tedious to prepare, but we must admit that we felt an uplifted, energetic mood right away, which lasted a few hours.
Supplement Facts
8 - Nature's Way Premium Extract Rhodiola
- Rhodiola root extract : 250 mg (one capsule serving size)
- Rosavins (3%), Salidrosides (1%)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Additive-free, clean formulation
- Better performance due to improved cognitive function
- Lessens mental fatigue throughout the day
Cons
- Twice-a-day consumption may be costly and inconvenient
This Rhodiola Rosea dietary supplement from Nature's Way Premium Extract might be ideal for people who experience natural energy dips many times a day.
This allergen-free, hormone-free, stress relief supplement will help them manage their time more effectively by improving brain function and physical performance.
After three weeks of taking it twice daily, clients reported the ability to extend their workouts, add more reps, and feel relaxed even after working out.
Supplement Facts
9 - aSquared Nutrition Rhodiola Rosea
- Rhodiola extract 1000 mg (two capsules serving size)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highly effective for people who engage in heavy physical activities
- Promote a positive mood by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels
- Rich in antioxidants that can help in post-workout recoveries
Cons
- Some consumers report that it interacts with their blood pressure medications
People who do high-intensity workouts may benefit a lot from taking aSquared Nutrition's Rhodiola Rosea supplement.
With a large serving size of 1000 mg, this particular brand of Rhodiola extract provides maximum strength to improve overall energy, cognition, and mood.
After our first week of using this supplement, we felt a significant boost in our physical and mental performance.
However, I didn't like how overpowering it was because I needed a mild brain booster that could work well with my pre-workout supplements.
Supplement Facts
10 - Swanson Rhodiola Rosea
- Rhodiola extract 400 mg (one capsule serving size)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps lower stress hormone levels
- Aids in the fat-burning process
- Improves athletic performance by boosting energy levels
Cons
- Contains unnecessary fillers and additives
Last but certainly not least is a Rhodiola supplement from Swanson Health, a company providing clinically-supported health products for over 50 years.
Swanson Rhodiola extracts are ideal for anyone who wants to relieve stress, boost energy, improve sleep quality, and safely lose fat because independent third-party labs have tested them.
Our team appreciated that this supplement gave us the mental energy boost we needed to balance out the physical energy provided by our pre-workouts.
Supplement Facts
How We Picked The Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplements
As a certified personal trainer and holistic nutritionist, I, along with my team, personally tested every product. We also incorporated feedback from clients who used these supplements. This first-hand experience allowed us to provide genuine, data-driven recommendations based on actual usage and results.
Purity and Quality
We began by ensuring the purity and quality of each product, scrutinizing ingredient lists over a two-month period to exclude any with unnecessary additives or artificial substances. Our method included lab testing and consultation with pharmaceutical experts to verify the purity of ingredients.
Standardized Extracts
Our focus then shifted to standardized extracts, where we looked for consistent amounts of active ingredients, specifically 3% rosavin and 1% salidrosides, to assure product efficacy.
Third-party Testing
This was a non-negotiable criterion. Over a four-week period, we sought products with certifications from independent labs, ensuring their safety and potency. We directly contacted these labs to verify their testing methods and results for each product.
Dosage and Concentration
The dosage and concentration of Rhodiola in each supplement were carefully examined, aligning with the latest research for optimal effectiveness.
Manufacturer's Reputation
Lastly, the manufacturer's reputation played a crucial role. We delved into the history and credibility of each brand, choosing only those with a solid track record of quality and customer satisfaction.
After thorough testing and evaluation, we narrowed down our list to the ten best Rhodiola supplements. These selections were based on their overall effectiveness in providing physical energy and mental clarity and their ability to enhance concentration and athletic performance without being overpowering.
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Buyer's Guide - How To Pick The Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplement
The easiest way to choose the best Rhodiola brand for you is to consider your personal preferences regarding the convenience of use, proper dosage, and value for money.
Form and Quality
Rhodiola Rosea supplements are available in liquid extracts, powders, and capsules, and you should choose the form that is most convenient for you to take daily. Also, my team and I agreed that the liquid extract has the highest absorbability, and taking it in this form is the best way to get results quickly as per Medical News Today [3].
Dosage and Effectiveness
The dosage for Rhodiola Rosea ranges from 170 mg to 680 mg, but research done by Complementary Medicine Research reveals that 400 mg of intake might be ideal for improving symptoms of stress and fatigue [4].
It is also important to note that the recommended 1 dose of Rhodiola Rosea contains 3 percent of the active ingredients, rosavin, and 1 percent of salidroside.
"Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic nootropic that may improve cognitive function, enhance memory and learning, and protect the brain. It also helps with emotional calming and protects against emotional stress."
- Jennifer T. Haley, MD, FAAD, Scottsdale, Arizona
Cost
To figure out which product will save you the most money, look at the label's suggested serving size to see how much dosage each brand gives per serving, and then divide the total cost by the number of servings to get the price per serving.
FAQs
What Are The Health Benefits Of Rhodiola Supplements?
Rhodiola supplements have a wide range of health benefits, including the ability to improve mood, strengthen the immune system, improve thyroid function, increase mental capacity, and fight aging because of their antioxidant properties.
Can Rhodiola Supplements Help Improve Athletic Performance?
Rhodiola Rosea can help people improve their physical and athletic performance by increasing energy levels, supporting the mind and body in coping with stress, and improving mental clarity.
How Do You Take Rhodiola Rosea Supplements?
You can take Rhodiola Rosea supplements in the morning on an empty stomach. If you wish to take it twice a day, consume it two hours before lunch. It's also not advisable to take it at night.
Are There Any Side Effects To Taking Rhodiola Rosea Extract?
As with any dietary supplements, there are minor side effects to taking Rhodiola Rosea extract, including headaches, vomiting, and dry mouth. Additionally, there have been reports of interactions with blood pressure medications.
How Long Does It Take For Rhodiola Rosea To Work?
Rhodiola Rosea supplement's relaxing effects can be felt within 30 minutes of taking it, but most people don't notice long-term improvements in their mental health until after a few weeks.
Our Verdict on The Best Rhodiola Rosea Supplement
After reviewing twenty Rhodiola Rosea brands over eight months, we all agreed that Nootropics Depot manufactures the most potent Rhodiola capsules making it our number one recommended product.
We extensively tested all the Rhodiola brands on this list, but Nootropic Depot has given us just the right stimulation that wasn't too short or too strong to support the effects of our pre-workout supplements since we found those to go together exceptionally well.
As a result, most of my team, including me and some of my clients, have all performed better at our workout sessions and dealt with stress more effectively at a reasonable price.
Our #1 Recommendation
Nootropics Depot Rhodiola Rosea Capsules (Best Overall & for Athletes)
- Very convenient to take
- Assists in building stress resilience
- Helps fight fatigue
- Improves athletic performance
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of April
- It may not be suited for people who do very high-intensity workouts
About The Author
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Rhodiola Rosea helped relieve my anxiety and occasional depression. This updated list was helpful in finding the right supplement.