Rhodiola and kratom are two very different herbal products with different mechanisms of action. However, lately, chatter on forums like Reddit includes discussions about the combination of these herbs for the potentiation of kratom. In this guide, we’ll explore if this combination is viable, how it works, and if it should be avoided or not.
To give you a deeper understanding of the interaction between these two herbal products, it is important to know how each of these botanicals works on their own first. At the end of this guide, we will explore some anecdotal first-hand experiences from users who have tried this combo.
Rhodiola and its Active Compounds
Rhodiola is called by different names. Whenever you hear Rhodiola rosea, golden root, roseroot, or arctic root, they are referring to the same plant. The origin of this plant can be traced to colder climates such as Sweden, Norway, Russia, and Iceland.
This plant has been used in traditional medicine as an adaptogen to promote endurance, strength, mental performance, and general well-being. The adaptogenic properties of Rhodiola may also help with:
- Boosting energy levels
- Improving physical endurance
- Enhancing mental clarity
- Balancing mood
- Boosting focus
The side effects of Rhodiola are mild and generally rare; however, one may experience insomnia, irritability, headaches, and increased blood pressure.
Talking about its chemical composition, Rhodiola is rich in polyphenols, and the two major active compounds in Rhodiola are salidroside and rosavin. Studies have demonstrated that these compounds might activate certain neurons in the brain and enhance the activities of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and noradrenaline.
Kratom and its Active Compounds
Mitragyna speciosa, also known as Kratom, is a plant that originates from Southeast Asia. The leaves of this plant have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Because of the different regions of cultivation, different soil conditions, and different methods of Kratom harvesting, there is a wide range and scope of effects. For instance, effects can range from energy boosting to relaxing and sedating, depending on the strain, vein color, and dosage of kratom.
You can expect to experience different effects from the use of Kratom, and this is because each strain has its unique properties. But generally speaking, kratom users report the following effects:
- Energy boosting
- Mood enhancing
- Mental clarity boosts
- Focus enhancement
- Relaxation and/or sedation
- Increase in sociability
- Boosts in feelings of well-being
Kratom is composed of alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenoid saponins, and glycosides. However, the psychotropic effect of Kratom is a result of the major alkaloids of the plant: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. A low dose of kratom (1-3 grams) generally has stimulating effects used to boost energy and motivation, and a higher dose of kratom (3-6 grams) generally has more calming and soothing effects; however, this can vary by strain and vein color. For instance, red strains are much more relaxing than white strains.
Kratom and Rhodiola Together: How Might They Interact?
Generally speaking, Rhodiola is not psychoactive and does not cause any noticeable effects on perception in normal dosage ranges.
Since kratom has potentially psychoactive stimulating effects, taking it with Rhodiola might theoretically increase the energy-boosting effects. When you combine the energy-boosting effects of kratom at low doses and the fatigue-relieving properties of Rhodiola, the resultant effect theoretically could be increased energy and motivation.
While this may sound like what people want to hear, understanding the reaction of these substances inside your body is very important, and unfortunately, no scientific data exists. Dopamine is a common neurotransmitter released by both kratom and rhodiola. Too much activity might lead to adverse effects such as overstimulation, restlessness, and increased blood pressure, to name a few.
It is important to note that the pair have not been studied in combination. Therefore, no safety data exists about using the combination together. For these reasons, it is best to avoid using the combination until more data exists about safety. Also it is important to note that each body is different, what might calm and regulate on might do the opposite in another.
Do This Before Trying Kratom or Rhodiola
Since the actual potential risk of Rhodiola and kratom is not ascertainable, taking precautionary steps is essential. Here’s what you need to do:
- Always consult with your doctor before using either substance, especially if planning to take them together
- Avoiding using either botanical if you are on medications and discuss these with your doctor
- Start with a low dose and observe your reactions if your doctor clears you
- Understand that the tolerance level of users is not the same. Therefore, the effect on one may be different from the effect on another.
- If you notice any severe side effects, such as increased heart rate, stop taking it immediately.
What People Are Saying About the Kratom and Rhodiola Combo
To help you understand better, we decided to share some experiences from people who have combined both substances. Read what they have to say below:
I usually don’t feel much or anything from the use of Rhodiola; hence, combining it with kratom only gives me the vibes of kratom. If Rhodiola had given me some noticeable effects, then combining it with Kratom would maybe be a good combo for me.
I tried the mixture twice a week but haven’t noticed any reaction or benefit.
I have tried the combo, and it’s nice for enhancing energy and mood. The only problem that can come up is when the Rhodiola causes an increased heart rate or when you combine it with a very stimulating strain of kratom.
I do the combination all the time, and they have synergy.
I have tried the mixture of rhodiola and kratom multiple times, and it’s fine for me. However, I prefer to take them at separate times. Though I wouldn’t say they are not synergistic, I didn’t feel any noticeable difference.
Conclusion: Is it Safe to Mix Rhodiola and Kratom?
There are several things to consider when mixing kratom and rhodiola. The upside might be that the synergistic effect of both can help boost energy levels and mood. However, the combo also poses potential risks like increased heart rate and blood pressure. Another thing to consider is that you may not experience the same effects as another experience.
The truth is the potential experience is unpredictable. Therefore, our stance on this is to avoid it altogether, and it is not worth the extra risk until reliable scientific data exists on potential interactions.