The study investigates the effect of Rhodiola rosea (rose root) on symptoms of persistent or chronic fatigue. Rhodiola rosea is used as an adaptogen and is said to help cope with physical and mental stress. The clinical study was conducted with 100 participants who took 2 × 200 mg of an ethanolic dry extract daily over a period of 8 weeks.
The results show that there were significant improvements in fatigue symptoms after just one week, which continued until the eighth week. The improvement was measured using standardized fatigue scales (MFI-20, Sheehan Disability Scale). In addition to the reduction in general fatigue, mental performance, sleep quality and subjectively perceived stress also improved. Tolerability was good and there were no serious side effects.
Conclusion: Rhodiola rosea shows promising effects in the relief of chronic fatigue. Due to the positive results, further placebo-controlled studies are required to confirm its efficacy.
Background:
Chronic fatigue is a widespread problem that can have a significant impact on both quality of life and ability to work. The causes are varied and there is currently no standardized drug therapy. Adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea are traditionally used to increase resistance to stress and fatigue. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of Rhodiola rosea in patients with persistent or chronic fatigue.
Methodology:
In an open, multicenter clinical study, 100 participants with symptoms of fatigue were treated with 2 × 200 mg WS® 1375 for 8 weeks. Efficacy was assessed using standardized scales to measure fatigue (Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory [MFI-20]), to assess impairment in everyday life (Sheehan Disability Scale) and to assess sleep quality, stress and psychological strain.
Results:
1. Reduction of fatigue symptoms:
– Significant improvements were observed after just one week.
– After 8 weeks, there was a clear decrease in general fatigue (MFI-20 total score decreased significantly).
– The reduction in physical and mental exhaustion and listlessness was particularly pronounced.
2. Improvement in cognitive performance:
– The Numbers Connecting Test (NCT), which measures executive functions, showed a significant improvement.
– Concentration and memory performance increased measurably during the study.
3. Improvement in sleep quality and stress reduction:
– The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) showed a reduction in sleep disorders.
– The Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ-R) documented a significant decrease in the perceived stress level.
– The participants reported higher energy levels and an improved sense of well-being.
4. Social and professional improvements:
– The Sheehan Disability Scale showed that restrictions in everyday life, work and social life were reduced.
– The number of unproductive days and sick days was reduced compared to the baseline.
5. Safety and compatibility:
– The treatment was well tolerated and there were no serious side effects.
– The most common side effects were mild and related to occasional gastrointestinal complaints or mild headaches.
Conclusion:
The results of this study suggest that Rhodiola rosea could be an effective and well-tolerated option for the treatment of chronic fatigue. The observed improvements in fatigue, mental performance and stress resistance underline the potential of this plant as an adaptogen. Controlled, randomized studies are needed to further confirm its efficacy and long-term benefits.