There have been many beneficial teas that have been utilized throughout history. They are a natural and effective way to gain various health benefits. Rhodiola tea is no exception, as it has been linked to weight-loss, enhanced mood, higher energy levels, and improved memory.
The benefits associated with this tea, are due to Rhodiola Rosea extract. This wild, perennial plant grows best at low temperatures, at high altitudes. Traditionally, this tea was used to calm nerves, aiding in anxiety and depression. Due to this tea’s effects on stress, it also indirectly prevents more serious health complications.
When you consume this tea each day, it is said to prevent colds and flus, while boosting one’s overall immune system. Due to its increasing popularity, research is uncovering more and more positive benefits. This tea has been attributed to more youthful looking skin, improved weight-loss efforts, and more. Although Rhodiola tea is the most common way to consume this plant, supplements are also sold in capsule, tincture, and powdered forms.
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Where Does Rhodiola Tea Come From?
This plant is native to Asia and Siberia, but is also found in northern Europe and within the Rocky Mountains. As mentioned, this plant thrives at high altitudes, where there are low temperatures. Rhodiola, which is also known as cold root or rose root, grows extensively at heights above 10,0000 within Siberia.
Within the summer and spring months, this plants blooms beautiful, yellow flowers. Due to it strong roots, which latch onto rocks; this plant can be found growing out of ice and snow. It is the root itself that provides health benefits.
How Do You Prepare Rhodiola Tea?
Once the roots are dried and ground, you can steep your Rhodiola in hot water. This can easily be done at home, all you require is hot water and around 5 grams of finely chopped or ground dried root. If you have a steeper, you can prepare your tea with that. If not, pack tea bags with the root.
Although the water should be hot, do not expose the roots to temperatures higher than 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Why? Well, when boiling water is poured on the root, it can damage active ingredients. Typically, this tea is left to steep for extended periods of time.
In some cases, this tea is steeped for 4 hours. This allows all the active compounds to leak into the water, so that you can consume them. Since this time-frame is not ideal for everyone, other options are available as well. You can purchase tinctures and liquid extracts for higher levels of convenience.
When using liquid tinctures, you can add drops to a cup of tea, such as chamomile or green tea. Capsules and powder are also available. Many are also now starting to grow this beneficial plant at home. This allows them to have an ongoing source for brewing.
How Does Rhodiola Rosea Tea Benefit Weight-Loss?
In terms of weight-loss, Rhodiola tea helps the body burn stored fat, using it as an energy source. There are proven chemicals within this plant, that trigger a fat-burning response internally. This plant also contains active compounds, which help to restore balance. Due to its positive effects on one’s adrenal system, it’s considered to be an adaptogen.
There’s also evidence that Rhodiola helps process fatty acids, promoting weight-loss. An enzyme is stimulated, which helps to breakdown fat. More recent research has shown that when users combine Rhodiola tea and moderate exercise, this effect can be enhanced further.
Boosting Energy Levels and Reducing Stress With Rhodiola
This supplement has sparked interest within the athletic community, as the effects tend to gives athletes an upper edge. It has been shown through clinical trials, that when taking Rhodiola Rosea, individuals boost ATP and creatine phosphate. These are used as energy sources, helping fuel one’s muscles. This results in higher levels of physical energy and endurance.
Another way that this supplement promotes athletic ability, is through increased oxygenation of muscles. Red blood cells work by transporting oxygen to muscles. This can immediately assist with fatigue and decreased levels of performance and stamina. By stimulating red blood cell production, Rhodiola is highly recommended for active individuals.
Just as this plant has become well-known for its potential weight-loss benefits, it is now being recognized as a stress-buster. When we become overly stressed, our bodies release cortisol. When cortisol levels are too high, over extended periods of time, it can be very damaging to our health.
Although it is not fully understood why, Rhodiola is believed to control cortisol levels. As well, it boosts serotonin, allowing individuals to feel happier and calmer. This is why it’s been shown to be highly effective when attempting to combat symptoms of depression. In fact, some studies have found it to be more effective than antidepressants, without creating the associated side-effects.
Supporting Your Immune System With Rhodiola
As mentioned, this tea is known to fight off colds and flus. By boosting your immune system, you can essentially fight off infections and illness. When you consume Rhodiola Rosea, you obtain 17 amino acids. These help to promote and maintain positive health.
Not only does this tea enhance immune support, but it also has anti-viral properties. This means, that if you are already suffering from a viral infection, Rhodiola will attack the virus. If you drink one cup of Rhodiola Rosea tea a day, you will boost your natural defense system, improving your overall health.
Typically, smaller doses of Rhodiola are taken in order to boost immunity; while larger doses are typically taken in order to combat a cold or flu, high levels of stress, and anxiety. Although Rhodiola is known to aid in symptoms of depression, it is not recommended for bipolar disorder. It is also not advised for women who are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning on becoming pregnant. If you have any questions or concerns, please ask your healthcare provider regarding your options.
