Clinical trial of Rhodiola rosea L. extract SHR-5 in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Article in Nordic Journal of Psychiatry · February 2007

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in Oslo, Sweden, and published in Nord J Psychiatry in 2007 examined the efficacy, safety and effects of rhodiola extract in mild to moderate depression.

The study included 89 men and women aged 18–70 with episodes of mild to moderate depression according to HAMD (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression), and lasted 42 days.

Participants were divided into three groups:

  • Group A (31 participants) took 340 mg rhodiola extract daily.
  • Group B (29 participants) took 340 mg rhodiola extract twice daily (680 mg total).
  • Group C (29 participants) took placebo twice daily.

Study results:

Groups A and B improved in overall depression, insomnia, emotional stability and physical sensations compared with placebo (group C).

At baseline (day 0), the mean HAMD depression score in the three groups was 24.5.

At the end (day 42), the score fell to 15.97 in group A and 16.72 in group B. Group C showed no statistically significant change (23.41).

No adverse effects from rhodiola extract or placebo were observed in any group.

Conclusions:

Rhodiola rosea extract has a beneficial effect on mild to moderate symptoms of depression without adverse effects.

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