Thanks. GNC is the brand I use as its the pure version. It does work. I should read that book and the author of the book was the clinician doing a presentation at a Parkinson's group where I found out about it. He is conducting a specific controlled study but I know in any study you can get a placebo so I don't go into studies but when the compounds being studied are available out of study, I take them under the care of a professional if they are willing to authorize it. I don't advise this for everyone. In fact, I'd probably advise against it. But since the rhodiola stops life threatening dysphagic spasms, I honestly have no choice. I know the glycine I take as an antipsychotic has been in multiple Phase II FDA studies for 5 years now and they are beginning to understand it much better now and I hope the same occurs for the rhodiola as it seems a bit of an unknown quantity now although a very helpful one for me.
There is a book, "Rhodiola Revolution," that may answer some of your questions.
You can look for at at Amazon.com to read the review.
Have you tried different brands of Rhodiola? I use it for fatigue, and noticed that some brands seem to do nothing.
Carol
Hi,
Thanks for writing in.
Rhodiola is being hailed as a miracle treatment for parkinson’s disease. It is supposed to raise the level of dopamine by inhibiting COMT enzyme which metabolizes dopamine much like the prescription drug.
Placebo controlled trials of rhodiola have shown its efficacy in patients with depression. It is known to enhance cognitive functions, mental and physical performance under stress and sexual function.
However more studies are needed to support the use of Rhodiola for these clinical conditions and to study its side effect profile.