Rhodiola rosea L. roots powder strongly reduces anxiety and corticosterone level induced by chronic stress in a murine model.

Abstract

Chronic stress disrupts physiological and psychological homeostasis, yet effective therapeutic strategies remain limited. This study investigated the adaptogenic effects of Rhodiola rosea root powder (standardized to 3% salidroside) on stress-induced behavioral and physiological changes in a murine model of chronic mild stress. Female C57BL/6 mice were exposed to a 19-day chronic mild stress protocol and received daily oral supplementation of Rhodiola rosea root powder, administered in gummies to ensure accurate and stress-free intake, or a placebo. At the end of the experiment, behavioral outcomes were assessed using the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) and Open Field (OF) tests. Compared with stressed controls, stressed treated mice demonstrated significant improvements. In the EPM, treated mice showed significantly higher locomotor activity (greater distance and speed), with more open-arm entries and time, as well as increased head dips, indicating reduced anxiety and enhanced exploration. In the OF test, they also displayed greater locomotion and more center-zone entries, both reaching statistical significance and supporting reduced anxiety-like behavior. These behavioral improvements were accompanied by a significant reduction in serum corticosterone levels, indicating modulation of the physiological stress response. Together, the findings support the anxiolytic and adaptogenic properties of Rhodiola rosea root powder and highlight its potential as a natural intervention for managing chronic stress. Future studies should investigate the long-term efficacy and mechanisms of its bioactive compounds in stress resilience and mental health.