A stroke can be debilitating to anyone who suffers it, and oftentimes results in death. However, as more and more research is done on stroke, scientists are learning that certain natural elements, such as rhodiola, may play a role in addressing this leading cause of death.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death. However, a few recent studies showed that there is hope for stroke victims who survive the initial onset. First, understanding a little about what a stroke is and how it affects brain and the body functions is necessary.

Stroke and its Effect on the Brain

A stroke is also referred to as a cerebrovascular accident. It occurs when an occlusion or rupture of a blood vessel leads to a lack of oxygen in the brain. One of the most debilitating forms of brain damage results from this ischemia. Ischemia is a restriction in blood flow to bodily tissues that results in dysfunction or damage to the tissue. In terms of damage to the brain, ischemia is usually caused by a clot or hemorrhage in the brain tissue.

The Effects of Ischemia

When the blood vessels in the brain are damaged or slowly begin to experience ischemia, a number of different things can happen. A patient may experience difficulties with speech and fine motor skills. Saying certain words may be difficult or a person may know what he wants to say, but it will not come out right. Depending on where the problem is located in the brain, other problems with the senses may arise. Ischemia in the brain also causes harmful chemicals to be released that may damage or kill the brain tissue.

Treatment Options for Ischemic Brain Damage

In 1996, the State Pharmaceutical Academy in Russia completed a research study that found that Rhodiola Rosea Extract can help prevent ischemic brain damage. Their findings indicate that 700 mg/kg can stop the development of poor blood supply to the brain that occurs from stroke or brain injury and can lessen the chances of the release of the chemicals that cause the brain tissues to die or become severely damage. The study also found that Rhodiola was effective in decreasing the creation of lipid peroxidation processes, which can also cause significant problems.

These findings are very important to today’s current research in ischemic brain damage and to the extent that the brain tissue is damaged. By limiting the damage, there is more hope for those that have suffered a stroke or some other form of brain damage.

What is Rhodiola Rosea Extract?

Rhodiola has been used for many centuries as a traditional medicine. It has been used as an antidepressant, a stimulant for the nervous system and to help reduce fatigue. Rhodiola is part of the Crassulaceae plant family. It grows in the colder areas of the world. There are several shoots to one plant and a plant can grow between 5 and 35 cm tall.

How is Rhodiola Rosea Extract Sold?

Rhodiola Rosea is also called Goldenroot and is usually sold in capsule form. A few tonics are available as well. The normal dosage is between 100 and 1000 milligrams a day, depending on the individual patient.

What Are the Known Side Effects of Rhodiola Rosea Extract?

To date, the main side effect of Rhodiola Rosea that has been reported is having difficulty going to sleep if the dose is taken too late in the day. One of the best things about Rhodiola Rosea is that there are also no known drug interdictions to date.

In Closing

Rhodiola Rosea is often used for mood enhancement and as an herbal antidepressant. However, with the latest studies showing the benefits of this plant substance on preventing ischemic brain damage, this supplement is certainly worth taking it, as stroke and brain injuries are very common nowadays. This may be the one thing that can have a significant effect on the long-term effects of these types of brain damage.