Rhodiola rosea
Adaptogen
Adaptogens are naturally occurring substances found in rare plants and herbs. Adaptogens were discovered by Israel I. Brekhman, M.D., a renowned Russian research pharmacologist and physiologist. Brekhman coined the term "adaptogen" as a plant type with certain characteristics:
(1) it is absolutely safe and non-toxic,
(2) it increases the body's nonspecific resistance to internal and external stimuli, and
(3) it brings any disfunctioning body system back into balance
Adaptogens began being used by Russian cosmonauts and elite Russian athletes in the early 1970s when the Soviet Union stepped out into the international arena as a dominant force. The breakthrough by Brekhman was kept secret from the rest of the world until a former Soviet Olympic coach, Dr. Ben Tabachnik, began introducing the Russian adaptogen formula when he emigrated to the United States in 1990. The unique formula of adaptogens discovered by Brekhman is now marketed under the PrimeQuest High Performance Program. Scientific evidence has shown that this unique combination of adaptogens can successfully combat the negative effects of stress, improve health and well-being, and enhance athletic performance (Avery, 1995).
The discovery by Brekhman paved the way for a large number of clinical trials and experimental studies on the health and performance benefits of adaptogens. Some of the latest scientific evidence shows that adaptogenic substances can increase the ability of cells to manufacture and use cell fuel more efficiently in periods of stress and strain (Avery, 1995). In particular, these substances appear to increase the capacity of cells to use energy by activating MRNA (messengers) and TRNA (transporters). Adaptogens also act as anti-oxidants, protecting cellular membranes from the adverse effects of free radical build up (Avery, 1995). (3,4)
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