Rose Root

Rhodiola rosea

Physical Characteristics

Rhodiola rosea is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 1 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Arctic regions of Europe, Asia and N. America, including Britain, further south on mountains.

Habitats

Ground Cover; East Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Stem Edible Uses: The young succulent leaves and shoots are eaten raw or cooked like spinach[2, 52, 62, 85, 172, 183]. A slightly bitter taste, we find them unpleasant on their own though they can be used as a small part of a mixed salad[K]. They can be made into a sauerkraut[257]. Stems - cooked and eaten like asparagus[183]. Root - raw or cooked[106, 183, 257]. It was fermented before being eaten by the N. American Indians[172].

Medicinal Uses

Adaptogen Antidepressant Stomachic TB Though little known as a medicinal plant, rose root has been used in traditional European medicine for over three thousand years, mainly as a tonic. Modern research has shown that it increases the body's resistance to any type of stress by regulating the body's hormonal response. Its use has been shown to have a protective effect upon the neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in the brain. It improves neurotransmitter activity by inhibiting their enzymatic destruction and preventing their decline caused by excessive stress hormone release. Rose root also enhances the transport of serotonin's precursors into the brain and studies have shown that use of this herb can increase brain serotonin by up to 30%[255]. The root is adaptogen. It has an enhancing effect upon physical endurance and sexual potency. A decoction of the flowers has been used to treat stomach aches and intestinal discomfort[257]. The raw flowers have been eaten in the treatment of tuberculosis[257].

Known Hazards

None known