Effect of Rhodiola Rosea on Aerobic Capacity and Anti-fatigue in Elite Long distance Runners

Journal of Exercise Nutrition & Biochemistry 2010;14(4):227-234.

Abstract

R
hodiola rosea is a popular herb in traditional medical system in Europe and Asia, with a efficacy for stimulating the nervous system, decreasing depression, enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue and preventing high altitude sickness. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Rhodiola rosea to improve aerobic capacity and eliminate exercise-induced fatigue in elite long distance runners. 30 male elite college runners were participated and divided into two groups; i) Rhodiola rosea group(RG). ii) Placebo group(PG). All subjects were completed treadmill exercise protocol using GXT at before (B) and after (A) experimental treatment of four weeks. The VO2max and endurance time were measured by gas analysis and heart rate( HR) were measured by polar system at pre. post 0, post 5. post 15, post 30 min and post 60 min. Blood samples were collected to analyze blood components. The endurance time was significantly increased in RGA compared to RGB(p<.05). The blood lactate concentration were shown higher decrease rate in RGA compared to RGB(p<.05) during recovery whereas LDH were increased in RGA. And blood glucose concentration were shown higher decrease rate in RGA compared to RGB during recovery. But Other energy sources(TG, TC, MDL. LDL, creatinine) and electrolyte(Na. K. Cl) were shown no significant differences between groups. These results suggested that Rhodiola rosea can he used as ergogenic aids to improve aerobic capacity and eliminate exercise-induced fatigue.

Key Words: Rhodiola rosea, Aerobic capacity, exercise-induced fatigue, Elite Long distance runners