Nektium-backed research highlights anti-stress benefits of Rhodiola rosea and Ashwagandha

21 Feb 2024 --- Botanical ingredients supplier Nektium and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, identified sufficient scientific evidence for the effective anti-stress activities of the adaptogens Rhodiola rosea and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). The researchers reviewed existing in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials.

Various medicinal plants are classified as herbal adaptogens, used in traditional medicine to enhance the efficiency of the body’s adaptive responses to physical, chemical or biological stressors. The review concludes that R. rosea helps to improve stress-associated fatigue, and Ashwagandha counteracts stress-related anxiety. 

“Both adaptogens show effective anti-stress activity, but their specific mechanisms of action differ,” comments co-author Rubén P. Machín, Ph.D., project manager in research, development and innovation at Nektium. 

“R. rosea, with its impact on the central nervous system, demonstrates improvement in stress-induced fatigue, depression and enhanced mental and physical performance. Ashwagandha, on the other hand, exhibits serotonergic-dependent antidepressant effects and modulates GABAergic neurotransmission, potentially making it more effective against stress-associated anxiety, nervousness and insomnia.”

The review also concludes that both botanicals “have a long history of traditional uses and are generally regarded as safe, with no serious adverse events observed at recommended doses.” Clinical trials report minor side effects, which are “low incidence and transitory in nature.” 

Distinguishing adaptogens 
Both botanicals have been studied extensively to determine how they modulate the central nervous system. 

The review, published in the European Journal of Medicinal Plants, evaluated over 70 human clinical trials on R. rosea, which varied in quality regarding methodology, design and conditions. 

Despite these limitations, the trials support most of the traditional uses of R. rosea. The study authors identified that the plant’s preparations (root powder, dry or liquid extracts and multi-ingredient formulations) might be effective “with an acceptable level of evidence” against stress, physical-related fatigue, low mood, anxiety and depression and in improving physical and mental working capacity in several conditions. 

Many human trials demonstrate the clinical efficacy of Ashwagandha’s preparations and extracts. The review reveals that mixtures of the plant have “demonstrated remarkable, adaptogenic and stress-relieve effects with amelioration of stress-related conditions: anxiety, depression and insomnia.” 

Machín explains: “Taking into account the endocrine mechanism of action and the most robust evidence of efficacy from clinical trials, R. rosea may tentatively be assigned as a regenerative ‘tonic vitalizing’ adaptogen, supporting stress-associated fatigue and weakness in several physical and psychological contexts.”  

“Ashwagandha could be considered as a regenerative ‘tonic-nervine’ that counteracts stress-related anxiety and insomnia or drowsiness.”

The review concludes that R. rosea helps to improve stress-associated fatigue (Image credit: Lukas Juocas).Use and health claims 
Bruno Berheide, Nektium’s commercial and partnership director, comments that the review study suggests that choosing the right adaptogen depends on the desired use and target audience. 

“For example, R. rosea could be recommended for morning intake due to its energizing and vitalizing effects, while Ashwagandha could be more suited for evening intake due to its calming and sleep-promoting effects.” 

“Likewise, sports people could take advantage of R. rosea to combat fatigue and improve mental and physical performance, while Ashwagandha could be well positioned for individuals wishing to manage their anxiety levels in everyday life.”

Nektium’s Rhodiolife, the “world’s first” commercially available standardized R. rosea extract, was launched in 1997. 

“Rhodiolife is our premium adaptogen solution for use in health and nutrition products,” highlights Laura López-Ríos, Ph.D., head of product development in research, development and innovation at Nektium. “It is standardized to total rosavins and salidroside content — the phytochemicals responsible for the adaptogenic anti-stress effects.”

Health Canada recently approved Rhodiolife and provided a Natural Product Number for it, meaning that the product can use several health claims. The company can claim that, as an adaptogen, the product may help “to temporarily relieve symptoms of stress (such as mental fatigue and sensation of weakness)” and “to help support cognitive function (such as mental focus and mental stamina).” 

Moreover, the company can state the product is “a source of or provides antioxidants” and may help to “increase energy and resistance to stress (e.g., in case of mental and physical fatigue related to stress).” 

Ashwagandha mixtures are linked to remarkable, adaptogenic and stress-relieve effects, improving stress-related conditions.Product safety 
In April 2023, Denmark announced a ban on Ashwagandha when a risk assessment could not establish a safe lower limit for intake. As a result of this decision, the Finnish Food Safety Authority was also deliberating whether to ban the plant. 

Based on the significant number of human trials and preclinical toxicity research, the review authors conclude that Ashwagandha is safe for consumption. However, the authors caution that no systematic clinical studies have been conducted to examine the botanical’s potential acute or chronic toxicity, either as a plant or extract. 

Moreover, the research team asserts that the risk of significant side effects due to herb-drug interactions is possible and needs to be considered, especially regarding interactions between Ashwagandha extracts and specific medications, such as certain classes of psychotropic drugs. 

Potential adverse effects are also possible in susceptible individuals or people with certain health conditions or subclinical disorders. 

Regarding R. rosea, the review concludes that its use can be considered safe and generally well tolerated, based on the traditional use and many clinical trials. At the same time, the authors warn against consuming the botanical alongside psychotropic medication. 

By Jolanda van Hal