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Unlocking the Power of Rhodiola: Your Guide to Rhodiolife® and its Sustainably-Sourced, Health-Boosting Properties

Get ready to delve deep into the world of Rhodiola rosea extracts with Rhodiolife® - the hero Breakthrough ingredient sourced from the pristine Altai Mountains. Rhodiolife® is a sustainable, socially-responsible, and water-soluble compound that stays true to the root's unique composition for optimal health benefits. Strap in for an enlightening journey into the world of Rhodiola and Rhodiolife®!

Rhodiolife® is the Rhodiola rosea extract you didn’t know you needed. Or, maybe you did, and for that, consider us impressed. You’re giving… “I know what my body deserves” vibes. Rhodiolife® is a first-of-its-kind water-soluble, sustainable and socially-responsible Rhodiola compound sourced from the Altai Mountains. Rhodiolife®’s unique ‘fingerprint’ composition consistently provides the spectrum of compounds found in the root of the plant so that it may accomplish the benefits you desire. 


As we guide you on this journey, we'll break down Rhodiola's role as a time-honored adaptogen, arming you with all the necessary knowledge to fully appreciate the studies that follow. We'll then take a deep dive into Rhodiolife®'s compelling clinical trials, its fingerprint and active compounds and the sustainable and conscious harvesting methods aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The cherry on top? An exploration of Rhodiolife®'s cultivation program and a grand finale that uncovers the beautiful synergy between you and Rhodiola. 

Just a little side note: You may, or may not, be aware that we cannot make any claims about our products. That’s the nature of the industry we’re in. While we fully believe in our products to help you achieve your most joyous season in life, we can’t fully claim what they can and can’t do. We hope that with more progress in industry regulation, we’ll be able to, but for now, we’ll let you come to your own conclusions and let the science speak for itself. 

What is an adaptogen and how is Rhodiola a “true adaptogen”?

An adaptogen (could) decrease occasional stress and promote calm while enhancing energy.* Check out these quick nuggets:

  • The term “adaptogen” was coined in the 1940s by Russian scientist Nikolai Lazarev.
  • The concept was based on Hans Selye’s theory of stress and General Adaptation Syndrome.
  • An adaptogen allows an organism to counteract adverse physical, chemical or biological stressors by generating non-specific resistance.*
  • In 1969, Rhodiola was identified as one of just five plants that met the criteria for a ‘true adaptogen’. Other secondary adaptogens have since been identified.[2]

The strongest evidence for Rhodiola’s benefits (at any dose) appears to be in support of its efficacy as an adaptogen. To be considered a ‘true adaptogen’—and Rhodiola is one of just five plants considered to meet these criteria—the plant must be demonstrated to have:

  • Low to negligible toxicity* 
  • Multiple ways it performs in the body: A non-specific mode of action yielding a broad-spectrum resistance*
  • Body-balancing: A normalizing effect on various organs and systems*
  • The (potential) effect matches what you need Rhodiola for: An intensity of effect that is proportional to that of the need*

Plant-originated adaptogens must not cause side effects such as an inability to sleep, low protein synthesis, or excessive energy consumption; they must do no harm to the human body. 

Potential benefits of all true adaptogens (i.e., Rhodiola, panax ginseng, eleuthero, maca and schisandra):

  • Can help the body adapt to stress*
  • Possibly counteracts negative effects of occasional physical and mental stress*
  • Supports an increase in the body’s resistance to stressful stimuli*
  • Non-stimulating*
  • Low or no toxicity*

If you want to learn more about Rhodiola over the centuries (literally), check out this blog.

What Is

Rhodiolife® helps your body generate sustained energy and supports wellness including psychological, emotional and physical conditioning.* It also supports healthy biological responses necessary for healthy immune, cardiopulmonary and endocrine systems.*

It is a first-of-its-kind, sustainably grown and cultivated, water-soluble Rhodiola rosea extract that closely matches the root of the original Rhodiola’s bioactive profile (check out the comparison shot at the bottom of this page). This is important because it enables Rhodiolife®’s unique “fingerprint” composition to consistently provide the spectrum of compounds found in the root of the plant so that it may accomplish the benefits you desire. 

The ingredient compound comes with all of the receipts: Rhodiolife® is the world’s first Rhodiola rosea that is third-party verified for ingredient identity and sustainable sourcing. It has multiple certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, Kosher, GRAS and Halal[6]. Every batch also receives CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) certification. This means that the Rhodiolife® is non-adulterated Rhodiola and the sourcing of Rhodiolife® is done in a sustainable way. 

When evaluating these studies, keep in mind that Breakthrough’s formula contains 500mg of Rhodiolife®. 

Clinical Trials

Study 1

Rhodiolife® supports muscles during exercise*.

Extract of Rhodiola rosea Radix Reduces the Level of C-Reactive Protein and Creatinine Kinase in the Blood

Note: Rhodiolife is the water-soluble form of Radix/Rhodax.

This study (link and citation below) showed that Rhodiolife® assisted the body in an optimal inflammatory response and muscle-protective effects.[4]

PURPOSE: Study the effect of regular treatment with R. rosea extract and plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and creatinine kinase (CK) in untrained subjects before and after maximum exercise.

METHOD/DESIGN:

i. 36 healthy, untrained (meaning, they weren’t serious athletes) volunteers aged 21-24 years old.

ii. Double-blind placebo-controlled design

iii. 3 groups:

  • Placebo
  • Rhodiolife at 340mg/day
  • Control (no treatment)

iv. Participants were supplemented 30 days prior and for 6 days after exhausting physical exercise.

RESULTS:

i. Less pronounced rise in C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in the Rhodiolife group. Levels returned to baseline only in this group. 

ii. Creatine Kinase (CK) was also blunted in the Rhodiolife-supplemented subjects.

iii. Rhodiolife possesses anti-inflammatory and, presumably, long-lasting adaptogenic effects.* [4]

iv. According to the study, “Two promising trends in the use of R. rosea extract can be outlined: facilitation of recovery after exercises and…” support in cardiovascular health and needs.[4]

DEFINITIONS:
i. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a type of protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in the body. It is part of the body's natural defense system against several causal forms of inflammation. CRP levels increase rapidly in response to inflammation, making it a useful marker for detecting and monitoring inflammatory conditions.

ii. Creatine kinase (CK), also known as creatine phosphokinase (CPK), is an enzyme found in various tissues of the body, including muscle, brain and heart. CK plays a key role in the energy production process in cells by catalyzing the conversion of creatine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to phosphocreatine and adenosine diphosphate (ADP). CK levels in the blood can be measured through a simple blood test and are often used as a diagnostic tool for detecting muscle damage, particularly in the heart and skeletal muscles. Elevated levels of CK in the blood may indicate cardiovascular insufficiency. CK levels can also be elevated in individuals who engage in intense exercises, such as athletes and weightlifters.

study 2

Rhodiolife® reduces anxiety*.

A Pilot Study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax®) for GAD

Note: Rhodiolife is the water-soluble form of Rhodax.

This study (link and citation below) showed that Rhodiolife® helped decrease self-reported ratings on scales related to mood and mental measures.* [5]

PURPOSE: Rhodiola rosea is an herbal supplement many have used for decades to alleviate and support optimal mood and sleep. Whether R. rosea is effective in reducing similar symptoms in clinical samples is unknown. The goal of this pilot study was to evaluate whether R. rosea is effective in reducing symptoms of GAD.[5]

METHOD/DESIGN:

i. 10 participants with a DSM-IV diagnosis of GAD, were recruited from the UCLA Anxiety Disorders Program and between the ages of 34 and 55.

ii. 9 of the participants were female.

iii. Open-label design

iv. Assessments:

  • Two rating scales: Hamilton Rating Scale: HAM-A or HARS and Hamilton Rating Scale: HAM-D or HDRS
  • Four-Dimensional Mood Scale (FDADS)
  • Clinical Global Impressions of Severity/Improvement Scale

v. Participants were supplemented with Rhodiolife® 340mg/day for 10 weeks

RESULTS:

i. Daily Rhodiolife® consumption decreased ratings on scales of mood ratings: (HAM-A) and (HAM-D). (p=0.001).* [5]

ii. Self-rated scores on FDADS also significantly decreased (p=0.043) ).* [5]

Study Links

If you really like science and geek out on quantitative research, you can find the full studies here:

Extract of Rhodiola rosea Radix Reduces the Level of C-Reactive Protein and Creatinine Kinase in the Blood: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/B:BEBM.0000046940.45382.53

A Pilot Study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax®) for GAD

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18307390/

Rhodiolife ’s Active Compound and Fingerprint

Rhodiolife® is a standardized extract of Rhodiola rosea. Only Rhodiolife®’s unique ‘fingerprint’ composition consistently provides the spectrum of compounds found in the root of the plant that are responsible for its biological activity – including rosavin, rosarin, rosin and salidroside. With Rhodiolife®, not only is the percentage of the primary actives the same as the root but so is the ratio of actives. Competitor products could never (check out the comparison charts below). 

It was imperative to NOVA’s product development team to source an ingredient compound that would consistently provide the same experience for our superwomen. Rhodiolife® is that ingredient. Because every batch contains the same number of actives and ratio of those actives, every stick pack of Breakthrough always offers equal potency as the next. The actives in Rhodiolife® - rosavin and salidroside – contain the naturally occurring ratio of 3:1.

Origin + Cultivation Program

What if we asked for more than a powerhouse Rhodiola extract that was backed by clinical trials and provided consistent results? What if we desired a compound that was cultivated using good practices, in a socially responsible way (meaning, fair to farmers and land owners) and done so sustainably throughout the process? Well, we did. We don’t think that’s asking too much. You expect it, so we respect it.

First things first, raw material collection is performed according to the World Health Organization’s Guidelines on Good Agricultural Practices. Rhodiolife® comes from Altai, Siberia, the same geographical region as wildcrafted stocks. Nektium is the company that exports Rhodiolife® from the Altai region. It is only one of very few granted special licenses by the Russian government to do so. This license was granted after years of collaboration with local companies and farmers in product research and evaluation of sustainable Rhodiola rosea resources by the local authorities. 

After a decade of development, the project has now achieved physical and phytochemical profiles identical to previously supplied wildcrafted material. This is achieved by propagating roots for faster growth and consistency of the phytochemical profile. Additionally, the roots are manually harvested and the use of machinery is intentionally limited. Farmers utilize manual weeding techniques, without fertilizer. We’ll jump into sustainability below, but this cultivation process requires only a small amount of water that is sourced from nearby mountain streams. Finally, natural tree and rock formations are respected and preserved.

Be wary of frauds. Adulteration of Rhodiola – mainly done by substituting in other species – is prominent. By now you know that NOVA comes with receipts. That’s why Rhodiolife® is CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) certified.

Sustainability

The long-term sustainability of Rhodiola is under threat. Cultivation is the answer. But certified sustainable cultivation is the GOAT and that’s what Rhodiolife® is! The cultivation of Rhodiolife® is aligned with three of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

  • Responsible consumption and production (#12): Rhodiolife® from cultivated Rhodiola rosea is sustainably sourced and clean label due to a gentle manufacturing process.
  • Climate action (#13): Growing Rhodiola rosea in fields that were previously barren contributes to CO2 capture.
  • Life on land (#15): Cultivation of Rhodiola rosea supports the conservation of the wild plant and promotes natural biodiversity.

So, you’re telling me Rhodiola is a woman?

FDA: That’s a joke.

Basically. Rhodiola is just like you: a badass woman. First, it is sourced from one of the harshest climates; like how you, someone beautiful, have grown out of harsh elements. You have stayed your ground and sprung up to blossom into an adaptable, yet formidable woman, despite all of the ‘elements’ life has thrown your way. Rhodiola must also grow much longer than other adaptogens and nutrients – anywhere from 3-5 years! Did you have to work through a lengthy “waiting period” – or are you in it now – where you underwent growth, leading to a true understanding of your purpose before you were ready to add immense value to this world? Last, Rhodiola is an OG, one of the original adaptogens. It is authentic and has stood the test of time, dating back centuries. Like you, and NOVA, Rhodiola is tenacious, real and true to itself with a life story that’s one for the books (and super old-school scribble stones? The Vikings used it…). 

Rhodiolife®’s bioactive profile vs. competition

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We make no claim of efficacy.

CITATIONS:

[2] I Brekhman, and, and I V Dardymov New Substances of Plant Origin which Increase Nonspecific Resistance. Annual Review of Pharmacology. Vol. 9:419-430 (Volume publication date April 1969) https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.pa.09.040169.002223

[3] Kelly GS. Rhodiola rosea: a possible plant adaptogen. Altern Med Rev. 2001 Jun;6(3):293-302. PMID: 11410073.

[4] Abidov, M., Grachev, S., Seifulla, R.D. et al. Extract of Rhodiola rosea Radix Reduces the Level of C-Reactive Protein and Creatinine Kinase in the Blood. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine 138, 63–64 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1023/B:BEBM.0000046940.45382.53

[5] Alexander Bystritsky, Lauren Kerwin, and Jamie D. Feusner. A Pilot Study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax®) for GAD.The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.Mar 2008.175-180. http://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2007.7117

[6] Breakthrough does not have these official certifications. The listed certifications are exclusive to Rhodiolife. Breakthrough is gluten-free and vegan.

Want to read about the WHO Guidelines on Good Agricultural Practices? Check out the publication here: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9241546271