-Rhodiola rosea-

For thousands of years, certain civilizations, notably, the Chinese, Egyptians, Indians and Russians have revered herbal remedies for their healing properties. Unfortunately, many countries that used to include herbal medicines put them on the back burner as pharmaceutical drugs rose in popularity. However a renewed interest in alternatives has been revived due to the new findings from their beneficial ingredients. Today research studies published in reputable medical journals such as The Journal of the American Medical Association ^[1] & Wiley’s Psychiatry Second Edition CAM Treatments ^[2] point to the complementary role that herbs play in patients treatment. Yet, of all the herbs noted, the ability of an herb to help the body adapt to stress, improve performance and increase resistance to “the Bad Bugs” is most significant.  That herb is Rhodiola rosea from Siberia, a true adaptogen.

Adaptogens help balance our bodily functions via the neurotransmitters of the brain. Once classified as “A Russian Secret” Russian scientists are finally able to bless us with a wealth of information on this wondrous herb. ^[3] Rhodiola rosea, also known as Golden Root, has been used for centuries; in fact Siberian/Russian Rhodiola has over 45 years of clinical studies to back up its legitimacy as a safe and powerful complementary alternative. Let’s discuss one of its many important roles.

Let’s talk serotonin: Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter of which 80% is primarily found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and only 20% in the central nervous system (CNS) raphe nuclei of animals. Considering that just the slightest disturbance decreasing serotonin in the raphe nuclei can make a person become obsessive compulsive (OCD), manic depressive or schizophrenic, balancing that little bit of chemical becomes so important.  In fact an entire community of doctors now over sees patients on a regular basis to help improve this very problem.  SSRIs and other pharmaceutical drugs that alter serotonin levels are the usual treatment of these symptoms. ^[4] However many SSRIs carry unwanted side effects, especially for men.

With so much serotonin in the body you would think we would be home free. However, serotonin in the GI tract cannot cross over the blood-brain barrier, a semi permeable membrane that regulates the passage of certain substances into the brain.  Since serotonin is unable to cross over the blood-brain barrier it must be produced directly in the brain. So how is serotonin produced in the brain? An essential amino acid, tryptophan comes into play as serotonin’s raw material that can cross the blood-brain barrier. Tryptophan, when in the brain, is converted to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase.  The final step involves the conversion of 5-HTP to 5-hydroxytryptoptamine (5-HT), otherwise known as serotonin. ^[1]

In humans serotonin levels are affected by diet. An increase in the ratio of tryptophan to phenylalanine and leucine will increase serotonin levels as well. Fruits with a good ratio include dates, papaya and banana. Foods with a lower ratio inhibit the production of serotonin. These include whole wheat and rye bread.^[5] Research also suggests that eating a diet rich in whole grain carbohydrates and low in protein will increase serotonin by secreting insulin, which helps in amino acid competition.^[6] However, increasing insulin for a long period may trigger the onset of insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and lower serotonin levels.

Throughout the body there is a system of checks and balances that work to keep us healthy.  Nowhere is this more important than in the control of serotonin production in the brain.  Two powerful enzymes called monoamine oxidase and aldehyde dehydrogenase help limit the production of serotonin.  Without these two enzymes too much serotonin would be produced which would be just as bad as not enough serotonin.  Depression is a consequence of insufficient serotonin levels, this is a fact that shouldn’t be over looked. Remember brain function is dependent upon proper balance. ^[1] Enter Siberian/Russian Rhodiola rosea. Siberian/Russian Rhodiola rosea helps the brain adapt to emotional & physical stressors by balancing serotonin. Do you eat on the go?  Are constantly stressed out? Why not give a natural alternative with so much history a try?  Rosavin™ or Rosavin Plus®, brain food for a balanced brain.

REFERENCES:

1. Arctic Root (Rhodiola rosea), Carl Germano, RD. C.S.N., L.D.N. & Zakir Ramazanov. PhD Kensington Publishing Corp. 1999 Introduction
2. Wiley –PSYCHIATRY Second Edition, CAM TREATMENTS, A. Tasman, J. Kay, J. Lieberman
3. The Herb that came in from the cold, Peter Jaret, Natural Solutions, 1/01/2005
4. Wikipedia – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serotonin
5. Abu-Jayyab A. “Nutritional Pharmacology Of Sleep & Depression”. SelfGrowth.com. http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Nutritional_Pharmacology_of_Sleep_Depression.html. Retrieved 2009-12-02.
6. Young SN (November 2007). “How to increase serotonin in the human brain without drugs“. J Psychiatry Neurosci 32 (6): 394–9. PMID 18043762

This Article is copyrighted by AMERIDEN® International, Inc.

No part of this article may be reproduced by any means without the expressed written consent of AMERIDEN® International, Inc. 1/6/2010

Article by Abidoff -Fanna
Moscow, Russian Republic

Russian Rhodiola Rosea, gathered from near the Arctic.

WILL ADULTERATION POISON SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION AGAIN?

RHODIOLA ROSEA -Case Study of An Industry Disease.  Is There A Cure?

Standardized, clinically potent Rhodiola rosea is a unique and exciting herbal extract that has risen to a level of well-earned consumer excitement that unfortunately is attracting cases of product adulteration, usually justified by misinformation. Apparently the increased popularity of clinically effective forms of Rhodiola rosea now make it a target for counterfeiting with innocuous and ineffective substitutes being sold to a public still too naive to protect itself from low quality alternatives that simply do not work. Unfortunately, this sad tale is all too familiar to experienced innovators in the natural products industry.

The public does not yet fully understand that only true Rhodiola rosea extract containing sufficient standardized levels of its unique active constituents, rosavin, rosin, and rosarin can insure that the consumer is getting the form of the product that works!

Despite its rising popularity, public education about Rhodiola rosea is still in its infancy. That is why articles like this are an essential “preventative medicine” against the abuses and destructive consequences of new product misinformation typically used to justify substitution and adulteration.

The tragedy, of course, is that continuing misinformation will eventually destroy public enthusiasm for the real Rhodiola rosea and diminish its bright future. Regulators and industry critics will once again be warning disappointed consumers that they cannot trust the “unscrupulous and unregulated natural products industry” as a whole! In effect, the recurrent pattern of great products being prematurely discredited and ruine

d by competitive adulteration is a sickness that eats the heart out of the integrity and fundamental health of the entire phytomedicinal industry.

Rhodiola rosea is a perfect case study of how the natural products industry constantly finds itself under attack by critics and regulators because of its historical inability to prevent this type of abuse.

Judge for yourself. here are the facts:

Rhodiola rosea (also known as golden root) is part of the Crassulaceae family of plants, indigenous to the Polar Regions of Eastern Siberia.

1. The release of information on extraordinary~ health benefits of Rhodiola rosea by the former Soviet Union in the early 1990′ s has dramatically increased interest in this unique medicinal plant. After more than 35 years of intensive research, Russian, Bulgarian and Scandinavian scientists demonstrated that highly active constituents extracted from Rhodiola rosea regulated levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
2. ‘Pharmacological and medicinal properties of any herbal extracts are a phenomenon strictly specific to unique species of the herbs…’ (Saratikov et al. 1987). Russian botanists have identified nearly 200 species of Rhodiola genus. According to the Russian Pharmacopoeia, key active constituents in Rhodiola rosea that are responsible for its unique pharmacological and medicinal properties are actually complexes of phenylpropanoids : rosavin, rosin and rosarin. If your extract does not contain all of these active constituents then there is no guarantee that what you have been taking will work anywhere as well as clinically true Rhodiola rosea extract that does work.
3. Some suppliers of so-called “standardized Rhodiola rosea” have standardized their products to 1% salidroside. Critical evaluation of results of recent research clearly shows that the presence of salidroside and its aglycon p-tyrosol is not specific to Rhodiola genus and not the source of Rhodiola’s extensive clinical value. First identified in white willow bark (Salix), salidroside was also found in more than 22 plants, algae and in some bacteria. These active compounds have also been found in virgin olive oil as well as olive leaf extract. The presence of salidroside or p-tyrosol in our diet does have some benefit.For example, P- tyrosol in our diet does have some benefit.
   For example, p-tyrosol plays an important role in protecting against LDL oxidation and helping to regulate heart arrhythmia. There are cheaper sources of abundant salidroside available from many other natural products. Rhodiola rosea as well as many other Rhodiola species also contain salidroside and p-tyrosol. But what is unique to the standardized Rhodiola rosea extracts that produced impressive clinical effects is their full specter of pharmacologically active rosavin, rosin and rosarin. The salidroside content alone cannot be used as the objective standard for product evaluation.
4. The key quality control discovery that allowed us to see the real effectiveness of this amazing extract was in knowing that it had to be standardized to the rosavins content (rosavin, rosin and rosarin) and not according to the salidroside content as presented in Tibetan and Chinese substitutes!  Thirty-five years of clinical Research clearly proves that only full potency Rhodiola rosea extract offer full effectiveness, not the salidroside!
5. The ability of the standardized Rhodiola rosea extract to help the body adapt to stress may lie in its special ability to enhance levels of serotonin, dopamine and other vital neurotransmitters.
6. Only the Rhodiola rosea extract containing all its key active compounds (rosavin, rosin and rosarin) improves the physical work ability, shorten the recovery period after prolonged muscular workloads, normalizing the parameters of the activity of the cardiovascular system.
7. During intensive muscular work Rhodiola rosea extract stimulates the production of energy, optimizing the processes of oxidative phosphorilation, activating the phosphorilation of creatine, and stabilizing the mitochondria’s ultra-structure, while stimulating the release of fatty acids from adipose tissue.
8. Only Rhodiola rosea extract containing all its unique active constituents has shown a positive influence on the higher mobility of the human body; improving mental ability, primarily enhancing the qualitative indicators of the performed work. The effect of “prompt adaptation” arises in the organism with the introduction of the Rhodiola rosea into the central nervous system. Rhodiola rosea prevents the beginning of pathological changes in the organism, caused by immobilizing and emotionally painful stress.
9. The adaptogenic characteristics of the standardized Rhodiola rosea preparations are displayed in an increase of the resistance of the organism to the action of physical and biological factors. Rhodiola rosea prevents the experimental development of hyper and hypoglycemia, leukocytosis, leucopenia, erythrocytosis, erythropenia and hypoxia.
10. The proven of effectiveness of Rhodiola rosea extract containing Rosavin and other key compounds in treating depression led Russian scientists to use it in combination with antidepressants. Patients’ general activity along with intellectual and physical productivity increased while duration of hospital stays and side effects normally associated with tricyclic antidepressants decreased. Rhodiola rosea is a safe and effective adjunct to conventional antidepressant therapy.
11. The Rhodiola rosea preparations increase the anti-tumor resistance of the organism. They significantly inhibit the growth of experimental tumors while decreasing the frequency of their metastases: Also, the life expectancy of animals with tumors is prolonged, decreasing the outcome of spontaneous tumor growth.
12. The Rhodiola rosea preparations are prescribed as a stimulative remedy for fatigue, for people with an inclination toward asthenia during work, which require increased mental workload, in sports medicine to fight exhaustion occurring during intense muscular work: It also accelerates the recovery processes during intensive training workouts.
13. In testing the response of exhaustive muscle workloads to Rhodiola rosea extract, it was found that the herb increases the activity of proteolytic enzymes and also significantly elevates the level of RNA and protein in skeletal muscles.

However, many new US Rhodiola products do not establish or maintain true clinical potency in their formulations. Consequently, they will not work and are not worth their price… especially since a clinically potent product is readily available and is verified.

Letting people know about the genetically true Rhodiola rosea extract presents a perfect opportunity to demonstrate the natural product industry’s ability to prevent recurrent threats and set a new standard of validity and integrity.  Demand that the truth be told about real Rhodiola rosea extract will insure that consumers get the benefits they expect and pay for; this is critical to preserving the goodwill of our loyal public.  Perhaps a more proactive, consumer centered self-help industry is needed to defend and promote objective standards in new product innovations. Participatory public PR campaigns are needed to brighten the image and reality of the natural products industry as a whole. The opportunity exists because the problem persists. Who will stand up for truth in marketing while offering integrity in product innovation? It will be those of us who really care about this industry and who have the principles and power to put our ideals into practice.

Closeup of Rhodiola Rosea flowers

This article presented by:

Dr. Musa T Abidoff MD, Professor of Medicine, President and CEO, Abidoff-Farma & Center of Modern Medicine, Russian Academy of Medicinal Science.Professor Satarov AD, Russian Academy of Medicinal Sciences, Academician Emeritus of Russian Academy of Sciences, President of Medicinal Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
Professor Krasnov, Russian Academy of Medicinal Sciences, Emeritus Academician of Russian Academy of Sciences, President of Medicinal Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.

Everyone has probably heard the word disease and can relate to it as some kind of plague of mankind, but what I believe people experience over time is ‘Dis-Ease’ with the whole situation of their health. Could it be if they just had a little peace with the process they would heal faster?

As I reflect over more than 40 years of trekking the long & winding road to great health, I cannot help, but realize my ‘assignment’ in life was to get healed; then to help others achieve the same status I have. The knowledge of maintaining or regenerating our health is right at our fingertips, so the question is “do I wait until I am sick or do I take action today.” I didn’t just go into the health care industry I grew into it! It began many years ago when I was a young, know-it-all 20 year old pursuing my dreams, studying philosophy, literature, & the humanities at a local city college while raising 2 daughters and working a 7 day shift in the restaurant business. You know, the normal everyday non-stressful life, yeah, right!

As with most, my symptoms of ‘Dis-Ease’ began in my teenage years when I wasn’t sick, but I was living in denial and I don’t mean the river in Egypt!

I began having blackouts, but was too afraid to tell anyone or do anything about them. That was most uncomfortable. I began seeing doctor after doctor and I took everything they instructed me to take and yet I did not improve; sound familiar? My disease was fast becoming my ‘Dis-Ease.’ I was “shocked” when a doctor told me I had to go to the hospital immediately because I was losing red blood cells.

Losing blood cells, where, I didn’t see or feel them leaving, where were they going, what was happening to me? The loss was from an ulcer big enough to cause such bad gastrointestinal problems that my respiratory system and skin soon gave way to allergies. The list grew quickly; what was happening to my youth? I was overwhelmed with fear, but I couldn’t give up, where would I find an answer to my problem? Weeks of testing and treatment for the bleeding ulcer ultimately cured it, but I was still at ‘Dis-Ease’ with the whole trauma.

Elated that it was gone, I was able to resume my life once again, but went right back to the cause of my ulcer, junk food. I didn’t know food played such a big deal in overall health.

Within 3 days of my junk food diet, the bleeding returned. Suddenly I came to the realization of why I had Dis-Ease, if I continued on the junk food highway, I might not live to see my 30th birthday! So began my journey to health and a ‘Dis-Ease’ Free life. It took me two more years, countless hours of soul searching & divine intervention until I was ready. Peace for some doesn’t come cheap!

I started taking Advanced Nutritional classes that were outside of the traditional realm. Can you imagine how unusual this was in the 70’s? My research & studies put me on a 360º turnaround and I have never looked back! Fortunately, for me this was a perfect time in history and my transition had great help from such mentors as Dr. Bernard Jenson, Dr. Paul Bragg, Dr. Carlton Fredericks & Dr. Benjamin Franks. I also had the privileged to have met & learned from Dr. Jonathan Wright, Dr. David Williams, Weston Price, Jack Challen, Dr. Robert Jay Rowen & Dr. Sherry Rogers to name a few. Few! That’s a whole lot of great advice.

Now let’s fast-forward 12 years, I was juicing daily, eating healthy & feeling fantastic when the dietary supplement market exploded. I knew I had to share what I learned with others so I started my own company “Vital Nutrients.” I promised myself years ago that when I started I would only work with companies who had integrity, credibility and manufactured a high quality product and I have kept my promise all along. As a result, my business continues to bring me great joy and wonderful clients who I am able to help with their health concerns.

Sometimes I feel like the “Natural Nutritional” version of Detective Colombo, but in this distinctive way, I am able to also connect with a unique variety of cliental. My clients are faithful because of my deep commitment to them and the high quality products I carry. Some of my favorites are “The Original Olive Leaf Extract” & “Rosavin Plus” by Ameriden International, Inc. It also helps that I personally use these products; I will continue to keep them as part of my daily regime and I know my clients do as well.

Our society may be caught up in the Big Pharma & the Alice in Wonderland paradigm of modern medicine, which has its place, but a healthy body & mind at peace brings homeostasis, there is nothing like it, may you all find it.

Sincerely Ron Pellegrini

Origins to Art

I am Tricia Meteer, professional photographer, artist & entrepreneur. I have a secret to share with you and I didn’t expect to find it at work.

It all started seven months ago. I was an executive with Origins and the Estee Lauder Corporation; hopping from one airplane to the next, crisscrossing time zones and hardly getting enough sleep. If you’re working for a living you can probably identify with this and how hard it is to balance a social and family life without feeling like a ping pong ball.

This combination was constantly fatiguing me as I would have to arrive on location with a smile on my face, ready to motivate, educate & lead 50+ employees then work with the clients too. To say the least my life was challenging and keeping stress in check became part of my life’s everyday diet. Read the rest of this article »

Stone Mountain Center…… where Stephen Larsen PhD focuses his attention on neurofeedback and nutraceutical support to help patients restore their lives.

In 1990, after 28 years of teaching biofeedback and self-regulation techniques to college students (at SUNY Ulster), Dr. Stephen Larsen set up his own healing and counseling center at Stone Mountain Farm on a piece of choice Hudson Valley landscape, with forests, rock-climbing cliffs, and waterfalls. His wife Robin was already running a not-for profit center there, The Center for Symbolic Studies, which included seminars in personal growth, traditional wisdom, and sports challenges such as rock climbing and the flying trapeze.

Read the rest of this article »

Laurel Dewey – Author

As a professional author, I understand stress. I know what a looming deadline feels like in the gut. I comprehend what an all-night re-write does to the brain. I really get what waiting for the reviews can do to my adrenal glands. While I wouldn’t choose any other profession, I’m patently aware that my chosen occupation requires a certain amount of physical support that’s beyond a brisk walk to clear the head. As I get older, I’m reminded repeatedly how without that support, I’d be operating way below par.

Twenty years ago when I got my first “real” writing job in Los Angeles, I knew nothing about herbs called “adaptogens.” I wish I had known because I probably wouldn’t have burnt out so quickly Read the rest of this article »

by Dr. Richard P. Brown, Dr. Patricia L. Gerbarg, and Dr. Philip R. Muskin
W.W. Norton, 2009

Many people use Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) because they want to enhance their health, prevent illness, slow the aging process, or participate more in their own health care choices.  Others find prescription medications to be ineffective, suffer unpleasant side effects, or fear long-term health risks.  Without the guidance of knowledgeable health care providers, many consumers have a hard time sorting out fact from fiction when trying to evaluate all the available information.  They may fall prey to practitioners who profit financially from the sale of products they recommend. The solutions this book shares are part of a new medical paradigm, integrating the best of standard and complementary treatments for long-term brain health, mental clarity, mental focus, memory, emotional health, and well-being.  The substantial but digestible text is peppered with “clinical pearls” and case vignettes. Read the rest of this article »