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Traveling to Tibet is a chance to discover natural treasures found only in the high Himalayas. One of these is Rhodiola, a wild mountain herb long used by locals to stay strong and clear-minded in the thin mountain air. Whether you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp or exploring the streets of Lhasa, Rhodiola might become a part of your journey.
What is Rhodiola?
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is a small plant that grows high up in the mountains, usually above 3,000 meters. In the Tibetan language, it is called ལྕགས་རྩ་ (chak-rtsa), which means “root of the rocks.” This name reflects its tough character–it grows where little else can survive.
Rhodiola has thick roots, fleshy leaves, and pink to yellow flowers. While small in appearance, it’s been treasured for generations, particularly in Tibetan medicine, for its health-boosting properties.
Regions such as Nyingchi, Shigatse, and Nagqu in Tibet are known for producing high-quality wild Rhodiola, thanks to their clean air, high altitudes, and untouched landscapes.
What does Rhodiola do to the body?
People in Tibet use Rhodiola as a natural medicine. It helps the body stay healthy and strong, especially in high and cold places.
1. Reduce Stress
Rhodiola is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body resist physical, chemical, and environmental stress. Studies suggest that Rhodiola can reduce stress and improve symptoms of depression and anxiety by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.
2. Relieve Fatigue
Rhodiola may offer relief for those experiencing fatigue, whether from physical exertion or mental strain. Research indicates that it can enhance endurance and reduce feelings of exhaustion, making it popular among athletes and individuals facing demanding tasks.
3. Enhance Cognitive Function
Rhodiola has been linked to improved cognitive performance, including better memory, attention, and mental clarity. This makes it a potential aid for those dealing with brain fog or needing to maintain focus during challenging situations.
4. Improve Exercise Performance
People may benefit from Rhodiola’s ability to improve exercise performance. It’s believed to enhance oxygen utilization and increase stamina, which can be particularly beneficial in high-altitude environments like Tibet.
5. Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Emerging research suggests that Rhodiola may help regulate blood sugar levels, offering potential benefits for individuals managing diabetes. Its adaptogenic properties might contribute to improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
6. Potential Anticancer Properties
Some studies have explored Rhodiola’s potential in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. While findings are preliminary and more research is needed, these properties add to the herb’s therapeutic promise.
Can Rhodiola help with altitude sickness?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions from travelers heading to Tibet. Yes, many people say Rhodiola helps them feel better at high altitudes. When you go to places like Lhasa, Everest Base Camp, or Lake Namtso, the air is thinner and has less oxygen. You might feel tired, dizzy, or have a headache. This is called altitude sickness.
Rhodiola can help your body use oxygen more efficiently, so you can breathe better and feel less tired. That’s why many Tibetan people drink Rhodiola tea or take capsules when they travel in the mountains.
Travelers who take Rhodiola for a few days before ascending often report milder symptoms or none at all. While it’s not a substitute for proper acclimatization or medical treatment if symptoms worsen, it can help make your high-altitude experience more comfortable.
How do you take Rhodiola?
In Tibet, Rhodiola is traditionally consumed in several forms, each suited to different preferences. Here’s how you can try it during your Tibet trip:
1. Rhodiola Tea — A Traditional Drink
This is one of the oldest and most traditional ways to enjoy Rhodiola.
How It’s Made:
To make Rhodiola tea, first, you need to cut dried Rhodiola roots into thin pieces. Then, put these pieces into a traditional Tibetan teapot, which can be made of clay or metal. A regular teapot is also fine, but the taste of the tea brewed from it will be a bit inferior. After that, pour boiling water over the roots. Sometimes, locals mix the water with butter tea. As the water soaks the roots, they open up and release their good stuff into the water. You can also add some other Tibetan herbs, like Tibetan snow lotus or licorice root, to make the tea smell and taste better and be healthier.
Benefits
Rhodiola tea can warm your body from the inside, which is useful in the cold Tibetan highlands. After a long day of hiking or visiting old monasteries, a cup of this tea can make you feel less tired and more energetic. It’s also very helpful at high altitudes. When there’s less oxygen, this tea can make it easier for you to breathe. Tibetan nomads often drink it before long trips or hard work.
2. Capsules and Tablets — Easy for Travel
If you want a quick and easy way to take Rhodiola without tasting it, capsules and tablets are perfect. You can find them in pharmacies, health stores, and even at airport shops.
Dosage
Most people take 200 to 400 mg of Rhodiola a day, either once or twice. But everyone’s needs are different. Your weight, health, and why you’re taking Rhodiola (like to avoid altitude sickness or get more energy) can change how much you should take. If you have other health problems or take other medicines, it’s best to ask a doctor or local herbal expert.
Best Time to Take
Taking Rhodiola capsules or tablets in the morning can give you energy for the whole day. If you plan to do something tiring, like hike, sightseeing, or drive in the mountains, take them 30–60 minutes before. This helps the herb work and makes you stronger and less tired.
3. Liquid Extract (Tincture) — Fast and Strong
If you want to precisely adjust the dosage of Rhodiola rosea, try the liquid extract, or tincture. It’s made by mixing Rhodiola with alcohol or glycerin.
How to Use
Using Rhodiola tincture is easy. Just get a small glass of warm water or your favorite tea. Use the dropper that comes with the tincture to add 10 to 30 drops into the liquid. Stir it a little, and it’s ready to drink. You can have it once or twice a day, depending on how you feel that day. If you have a busy day, you can take more; if it’s a relaxing day, take less.
Why Choose It
The best thing about the tincture is that your body absorbs it fast. Capsules and tablets need to be digested first, but the liquid goes into your blood right away. You can start feeling the effects in about an hour, like feeling more awake and less tired. If you’re going on a long drive, visiting a big temple, or going on a tough Kailash trek, the tincture can help you stay focused and energetic.
Who cannot take Rhodiola?
While Rhodiola is safe for most healthy adults, it may not be suitable for everyone. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid it, as there is not enough research to confirm its safety during these periods. Those with bipolar disorder or other mood-related conditions should also be cautious, as Rhodiola can affect brain chemicals and may trigger overstimulation or mood swings. In addition, if you’re taking blood pressure medication, antidepressants, or diabetes drugs, it’s important to talk to a doctor before using Rhodiola, as it could interfere with how these medicines work. When in doubt, always check with a healthcare provider — especially before starting any herbal supplement during your travels.
Which is better Rhodiola or Ashwagandha?
Both Rhodiola and Ashwagandha are popular herbs known for helping the body handle stress, but they work in slightly different ways.
Rhodiola is often used for boosting energy, improving focus, and helping with fatigue, especially in high-altitude or cold environments like Tibet. It’s fast-acting and great for people who feel tired or mentally drained. Ashwagandha, on the other hand, is more calming. It’s often used to reduce anxiety, support sleep, and balance hormones over time.
So, which is better depends on your needs: if you want more energy and mental alertness, Rhodiola might be the better choice. If you’re feeling anxious or having trouble sleeping, Ashwagandha may be more helpful. Some people even use both — but always check with a doctor before combining them.
Can Rhodiola cause weight gain?
Rhodiola is not known to cause weight gain. Some people take Rhodiola to support healthy weight management. This is because the herb may help the body manage stress better, and high stress is often linked to overeating or weight gain. Rhodiola may also boost energy and improve physical performance, which can encourage more movement and exercise. However, it’s important to remember that Rhodiola is not a weight loss or weight gain product — it works best as part of a healthy lifestyle. If you experience changes in your weight while using Rhodiola, it’s more likely due to other factors like diet, sleep, or activity level, rather than the herb itself.
Where can you buy real Rhodiola in Tibet?
If you’re traveling in Tibet and want to bring home some real, high-quality Rhodiola, you’re in luck. This amazing herb grows naturally in the high mountains of the Tibetan Plateau, especially in regions above 3,500 meters. Here are some recommended places to buy Rhodiola during your journey:
Lhasa — The Heart of Tibetan Medicine
In the capital city of Lhasa, you’ll find many Tibetan medicine shops, local herbal markets, and even pharmacies that sell Rhodiola in different forms like dried root, capsules, teas, and more. Barkhor Street and the area around Jokhang Temple are good places to look. You can also visit the Tibet Traditional Medicine Hospital, where some doctors and staff speak basic English and can offer reliable advice. While exploring Lhasa, don’t miss Potala Palace, Norbulingka, Sera Monastery, and then stop by a teahouse for a bowl of warm butter tea!
Shigatse and Mount Everest Region — Rhodiola at Its Source
As you travel west toward Shigatse and Everest Base Camp, you’ll be closer to the natural growing areas of wild Rhodiola. Some local farmers or village markets in Tingri and surrounding towns sell sun-dried Rhodiola root during harvest seasons (usually summer and early autumn). Buying from them supports local communities and gives you a truly authentic experience. By the way, joining a tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp is a perfect way to enjoy Tibet’s landscape!
Ngari Region — Pure Rhodiola from the Wild
If you join a pilgrimage route to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, you might find wild Rhodiola for sale along the way, especially in local monasteries or mountain-side stalls. Because Ngari is remote and less commercial, many travelers believe the herbs here are among the purest in Tibet. This route is spiritual, adventurous, and ideal for those seeking both healing energy and sacred nature.
Conclusion
Grown high in the mountains under the clear blue sky, Rhodiola reflects the strength, purity, and resilience of the land and its people. Whether you drink it as tea while gazing at the Potala Palace, carry it in your backpack from Everest Base Camp, or bring it home as a memory of your journey, Rhodiola offers a natural way to support your health and connect with Tibetan culture. So if you’re planning a trip to Tibet, don’t miss the chance to discover this hidden treasure!
