Rhodiola and Ashwagandha: Calm and Energizing

Rhodiola and Ashwagandha are different plants, with different traditional uses, that originate in different parts of the world. 

A scientific review of more than 70 human clinical trials found consistent evidence of rhodiola's anti-stress effects. 

In this article, we will cover the real difference between rhodiola and ashwagandha, whether it’s safe to take them together, and when to take each. 

Are Rhodiola and Ashwagandha the Same Thing?

While both are adaptogens, they are from different plants. 

Rhodiola is ‘Rhodiola rosea L’, originally from cold regions of Europe and Asia. It was used throughout history to enhance physical endurance and combat fatigue in harsh, cold environments.

Whereas ashwagandha, known as 'Withania somnifera', is native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Traditionally, it is used as a tonic to help with exhaustion, emotional strain, and when the body needs to heal. 

Modern supplements and wellness drinks often group them together, so the confusion is understandable, but they perform different, complementary functions. 

 

Rhodiola vs Ashwagandha: What's the Difference?

Rhodiola

The role of rhodiola is to provide energy, combat fatigue, and improve focus. The active compounds are rosavin and salidroside. These are thought to result in enhanced cognitive abilities, mental clarity, energy, and metabolism.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha’s role is to manage cortisol/stress, support mood, and improve sleep quality, and the active compounds are with anolides. However, its calming effect isn't universal; in some cases it's been linked to excess thyroid hormones, so it may not act as a sedative for everyone. 

Can You Take Rhodiola and Ashwagandha Together?

The two are commonly combined, but they act in very different ways. Rhodiola works through the central nervous system, while ashwagandha works through serotonergic-dependent and GABA pathways. There is no established ratio or guidance for combining the two, so it is always recommended to consult your doctor before taking them. 

By acting on stress through different pathways, combining them is a way to tackle the problem from two directions. There are a few areas where the combination can make a big difference: 

• Stress reduction - better relief than one herb alone, tackling both physical and mental stress
• Mood regulation - may help stabilize mood and ease anxiety and depression symptoms
• Energy and vitality - the energizing effect, coupled with the fatigue reduction, gives a rounded boost
• Cognitive function - may support memory and concentration

Looking to feel rhodiola's energizing side for yourself? Our Revive seltzer is formulated around it, alongside lion's mane, CoQ10, and curcumin. 

When to Take Rhodiola and Ashwagandha

Rhodiola is typically recommended for the morning; it is energizing and may disrupt sleep if it is taken later in the day. It typically pairs well with breakfast or as a mid-morning pick-me-up. The effects build up quickly, and you can feel a difference over the course of a few days of taking it regularly. 

Ashwagandha should be taken in the evening to aid relaxation and sleep, but this is not a hard rule. Some prefer taking it in the morning because of its mood-calming effects, so they have a consistent all-day calm. The effects of ashwagandha build more slowly over time, and consistent daily use is key. 

When combining them into your routine, it is important to understand that you will feel a lifting, energizing effect first, and it may be a little later before the calming effects kick in. 

 

Should You Take Ashwagandha or Rhodiola?

Neither option is inherently better; it all depends on what you are looking for. For a boost of energy, rhodiola is perfect, but for stress relief and calm, ashwagandha is the better fit. 

Ask yourself some questions to see which is right for you:

• Feeling physically drained or having low motivation? 
• Got a big day planned? Deadlines coming up? Need an early start or a workout boost? 

Ashwagandha is for you if:

• Feeling wired, anxious, or can’t switch off? 
• Stressful week affecting your sleep? 
  
  

If you want both the energy and the calm, combining rhodiola and ashwagandha is a well-supported option too. 

Finding the Balance with Rhodiola and Ashwagandha

Rhodiola and ashwagandha are both adaptogens doing the same thing, helping your body handle stress, but they tackle it in different ways. Taken correctly, combining them is generally considered safe. 

Finding the right combination often comes down to your personal goals. Everyone will respond differently, which is why you should start slowly and see how you feel over a few weeks. 

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