Rhodiola rosea is an herb that some believe can be used for anxiety. The supplement rhodiola rosea is generally taken as an anti-depressant. However, many anti-depressants are also recommended for people who suffer from anxiety. When taking an anti-depressant for your anxiety disorder, it is important to ascertain whether either the drug’s effects or its side effects have the potential to make anxiety worse.
This article will review the benefits associated with taking rhodiola rosea, as well as the potential problems to watch out for if you are planning on taking this supplement as treatment for your anxiety
Decreasing Sympathetic Nervous System Activity
The sympathetic nervous system is the system that springs into action when the fight or flight response is triggered by the amygdala. It includes your pulse, your breathing rate, and your adrenal glands. Increased activity of these is either directly or indirectly responsible for all the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, shaking, dizziness, and nausea.
Increasing Parasympathetic Nervous System Activity
The parasympathetic nervous system is the opposite of the sympathetic nervous system in that it is associated with the slowing of the body’s processes rather than speeding them up, as happens when you are feeling anxious.
Increasing Serotonin
Serotonin is the chemical in the body associated with happiness and relaxation. Serotonin deficiency is seen primarily in people with depression and anxiety conditions.