Ashwagandha vs Rhodiola: Which is Best For You?
If you’re constantly on the lookout for ways to improve your efficiency and reduce stress, chances are high that you’ve come across the names Ashwagandha or Rhodiola.
However, you may have held off on trying them. Why?
Because there was likely some degree of confusion between the two, or due to the fact that people tend to discredit the efficacy of herbs as effective remedies.
But by the time you’re through with reading this, not only will you be convinced that you can benefit from consuming one of these herbs.
You will also be a convert to the school of efficacious herbs (we say efficacious because not everything lives up to the hype).
Let’s get down to the juicy stuff; meet the herbs.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an herb dating back as far as 1000 BC when it was introduced as an effective medical herb in Ayurveda.
Ashwagandha is a root, said to possess a characteristic odor somewhat similar to that of a horse (and from which its name originated).
It is believed that that consumption of Ashwagandha root would give the user the virility of a horse.
Today, Ashwagandha is sought after for its adaptogenic properties, and for its ability to make the body more resistance or “tolerant” to the effects of chronic high-stress exposure.
Ashwagandha is also believed to stimulate GABA receptors in the brain, which help to initiate relaxation and induce peaceful sleep.
However, even though it possesses actions that induce relaxation, it does not result in brain fog or next day grogginess, associated with many common sleep aids.
You can thank this to its adaptogenic properties, which still allow your usual circadian rhythm to prevail.
As well as lowering the stress hormone cortisol, ashwagandha also has the following positive actions in the body:
Since stress plays a role in all of the above-mentioned states, effective adaptogens play a part in managing at least one or more aspect of elevated stress states.
Specific Actions Of Ashwagandha
1. Reduces Cortisol Levels
This is the primary working mechanism behind most adaptogenic herbs. The ability to reduce levels of elevated cortisol lend itself to numerous benefits, including higher testosterone (as cortisol impairs testosterone).
2. Improve Mental Faculties
When comparing Ashwagandha to Rhodiola, it is said to possess a more “stimulatory” action on the brain and body, increasing one’s motivation and retention in the process.
This is great to combat low energy levels or states that lead to decreased productivity. This action also confers its neuroprotective actions, helping to prevent the breakdown of the neuronal structures in the brain.
3. Cancer Management
Excessive oxidative and inflammatory states are believed to play a critical role in cancer development, but luckily Ashwagandha offers a unique way to help suppress tumor growth.
In order for a tumor to grow, it must create its own network of blood vessels via the process of angiogenesis.
Withanolides, compounds found in Ashwagandha, have been shown to have strong inhibitory properties on this process, effectively stifling the cancerous growth of blood.
Ashwagandha Dosage
The typical daily dose for Ashwagandha is about 300-1000mg daily, better taken at night due to its anxiolytic action.
It can still be taken during the day, since its relaxant actions are not pronounced, but it is good to take advantage of the natural changes to the brain that occur as nightfall steps in.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea is the other competitor in this matchup versus Ashwagandha, bringing to the table a similar, yet different set of skills.
Currently, Rhodiola is the second most consumed adaptogen herb after Ginseng, possessing notable adaptogenic action, as well as functioning as an anti-fatigue agent.
Specific Actions of Rhodiola Rosea
1. Stress Reduction From Non-Physical Means
Rhodiola seems better suited to help reduce stress overload or “burnout” in individuals that indulge in high-intensity mental work but not necessarily of a physical origin.
While you may think that stress is stress regardless of the cause, there are actually very different hormonal and neuroendocrine changes occurring under the surface.
2. Improves Mood
People that are more prone to stress-related depression may find comfort in using Rhodiola.
It is said to possess serotoninergic action in the brain, allowing for increased levels of this neurotransmitter associated with a good mood.
Best of all? There are far fewer reported side-effects than using prescription anti-depressants, making it particularly attractive.
3. May Increase Lifespan
Though more studies need to be done to confirm these findings, so far there is limited evidence to show that this herbs adaptogenic properties can give someone up to a 20% increased lifespan, all without caloric restriction (which is a proven way to increase lifespan).
4. Reduces Inflammatory Disease
Specifically notable in the management of diseases such as arthritis and auto-immune disorders, but also in decreasing cancer risk.
Ashwaganda VS Rhodiola: The Similarities
Both Ashwagandha and Rhodiola are excellent Adaptogens that reduce the impact of stress and cortisol on the body.
They both also improve fatigue resistance and can enhance the function of the brain and nervous system.
What remains clear, however, is that it does not need to be a case of “one or the other”, as used jointly they can offer much more for your well-being.
Here are the Key Takeaways
Ashwagandha:
Rhodiola
Wrapping Up
While using either one of these adaptogenic herbs alone should greatly improve your tolerance to stress and fatigue, it should also be apparent that other aspects of your health will improve as well.
From your mood to sexual function and even other metabolic co-morbidities, these herbs deserve a place on your supplement shelf.
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