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Side effects of rhodiola rosea are generally rare and mild to moderate. They may include headache, stomach upset, drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping.
You may experience drowsiness if you combine rhodiola rosea with benzodiazepines, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
Do not take rhodiola rosea if you are pregnant or nursing, or taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
There are no known risks associated with rhodiola rosea; however, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the production of herbs and supplements. Most herbs and supplements are not thoroughly tested, and there is no guarantee regarding the ingredients or safety of the products. *
Studies have only noted mild side effects in rare cases:
- Sleep disturbances: Since rhodiola is a stimulant, some people have trouble falling asleep if they take rhodiola at higher doses too close to bedtime. On the contrary, other people suggest it improves your sleep. Even the evidence is a mixed bag. The best way to find out here is to see for yourself.
- Dry Mouth
- Blood thinning: While rare, it’s important to consider this. You don’t want thinned blood before surgery. Or if you’re already on a blood thinner, it may not be a good idea to combine with rhodiola.
- Nervous excitability: People who are prone to getting excessively nervous may get worse with rhodiola. If you have this issue, you should not take rhodiola without consulting a healthcare professional first.
When to Avoid Rhodiola
- If you have an autoimmune condition, it may be best to avoid rhodiola. Since it’s regarded as an immune stimulant, it can potentially worsen symptoms.
- Since rhodiola is a mild herbal stimulant (not like caffeine), in rare cases it may worsen anxiety. But in most cases, it helps it. That’s why it’s always best to work your way up to higher doses. Always start small. *
