Rhodiola rosea L. as a putative botanical antidepressant

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Integrative Medicine

Background:

• Rhodiola rosea (R. rosea) is recognized as a botanical adaptogen with potential anti-stress and antidepressant properties.
• Limited evidence-based data exists for R. rosea's effectiveness in treating adult depression, necessitating a comprehensive review.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on the antidepressant mechanisms of R. rosea.
• To evaluate studies on the safety and efficacy of R. rosea extracts in both animal models and adult humans.

Main Methods:

• Searched MEDLINE and the Russian state library database for studies on R. rosea up to October 2015.
• Included preclinical (animal) and clinical (human) studies.

Main Results:

• R. rosea extracts and salidroside interact with molecular networks involved in depression pathophysiology, showing preclinical antidepressant-like actions.
• Two randomized controlled trials and seven open-label studies involving 860 participants suggest R. rosea extract has a possible antidepressant effect in adults.
• R. rosea extract demonstrated a favorable safety profile and good tolerability in short-term studies, unlike many conventional antidepressants.

Conclusions:

• Rhodiola rosea exhibits multi-target effects on stress response regulation.
• It influences neuroendocrine, neurotransmitter receptor, and molecular networks, potentially offering mood benefits.