Rhodiola Vs. Holy Basil: Which Adaptogen Is Better For Stress?

Rhodiola and Holy Basil are popular adaptogenic herbs known for their stress-reducing properties. However, each has its advantages and disadvantages. For instance, Rhodiola can boost energy and improve mood, while Holy Basil can help reduce stress and improve overall health. Therefore, the choice between these products primarily depends on your personal needs. Let's explore this topic further.

Rhodiola Vs. Holy Basil: Which Adaptogen Is Better For Stress?

Both Rhodiola and Holy Basil are effective in reducing stress. However, your better option will depend on your needs and health conditions.

Rhodiola is often used to enhance mood, energy, and cognitive function, while Holy Basil is commonly used to reduce stress, boost the immune system, and protect the liver.

To understand more about these two adaptogens, you can read further below.

What Are Rhodiola Rosea's Benefits and Side Effects For Health?

Rhodiola rosea, also known as "golden root" or "Arctic root," is widely distributed in the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It has been used in traditional medicine to stimulate the nervous system, reduce depression, enhance work performance, alleviate fatigue, and prevent altitude sickness [1].

Rhodiola rosea has been researched and recognized as an adaptogen that can reduce stress and increase resistance to various types of stress.

It may help combat depression, fight cancer, protect cardiovascular health, and strengthen the nervous system.

Studies also show it can improve conditions such as decreased work performance, sleep difficulties, loss of appetite, irritability, high blood pressure, headaches, and fatigue [1]. It helps boost energy and significantly improve cognitive function.

The dosage of Rhodiola Rosea in scientific studies ranges from as low as 100 to 170 mg per day to as high as 1500 mg per day [1], [2]. The dosage may also vary depending on the purity of the extract.

If you want to use Rhodiola long-term, the best start is a few weeks before a stressful period and continue throughout the stressful phase.

However, if you want to use Rhodiola acutely, such as before an exam or athletic competition, you must take three times the normal dose [1].

Rhodiola is considered a safe herb with many benefits. However, it still has some side effects when taken in high doses or when the body is not yet adapted.

Taking high doses (1.5-2.0 grams) can cause some people to feel stimulated and have trouble sleeping.

Other potential side effects include restlessness, insomnia, headaches, and nausea.

What Are Holy Basil's Benefits And Side Effects On Health?

Holy Basil is a powerful antioxidant widely used to manage stress and anxiety. Research has evaluated the effects of Holy Basil on health. A study was conducted with 100 volunteers divided into two groups: one took Holy Basil capsules, and the other took a placebo.

The results showed that Holy Basil extract could help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and lower cortisol (a hormone produced during stress). The improvement in the Holy Basil group was better than in the placebo group [3].

Holy Basil is an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to physical and mental stress.

Holy Basil could be an alternative to caffeine, significantly enhancing alertness and mental clarity. Moreover, it does not have the side effects associated with caffeine.

Although insufficient research exists to establish a standard dosage for Holy Basil, existing studies provide some suggestions.

• Neurological disorders: 300 mg of ethanolic leaf extract daily for 30 days [4].
• Stress: 1000 mg of Orthophytum sanctum extract daily for 8 weeks; 1200 mg of Ocimum tenuiflorum extract daily for 6 weeks [4].

One of the side effects of using Holy Basil is the risk of reduced sperm production [5]. Other common side effects include nausea and diarrhea.

Rhodiola Vs. Holy Basil: What's the Difference Between Them?

I will summarize the differences between Rhodiola and Holy Basil in the following table:

Comparison table of Rhodiola and Holy Basil

Also, remember that Rhodiola and Holy Basil can interact with certain medications, so consult your doctor before using them.

Can You Take Rhodiola And Holy Basil Together?

You can use Rhodiola and Holy Basil to enhance overall health, but pay attention to the dosage. Due to their stress-reducing properties, combining them can significantly improve mental health and boost energy levels. However, you should not combine these herbs on your own.

Some products on the market already combine these herbs, but this is done through specific scientific research. Therefore, before you combine Rhodiola and Holy Basil, ensure they are used in the correct dosage and are suitable for your body.

It is best to consult a doctor or nutritionist before using these two herbs simultaneously.

Conclusion

Rhodiola and Holy Basil are highly effective herbs for reducing stress and improving health. They can be excellent natural solutions for you. However, depending on your specific needs, you will decide which is most suitable and brings the best results for you. Additionally, don't forget to relax and improve your diet and lifestyle for sustainable mental health.