Rhodiola algida, or Rhodiola quadrefida, is perennial herb of the family Crassulaceae. It has a low-height (up to 15 cm), and a pulvinate form ("of a pillow": remains of many dead shoots serve as an isolation, to warm the stem in cold Alpine weather). The tap root is very long, which allows to trace water deep under the ground, and serves as an anchor holding the plant on stone slopes under high mountain winds. Rhodiola is a widely spread polymorphic species, its morphological character varies a lot depending on the environment. Rhodiola quadrefida grows on rocks and stone slides in Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Russia (Altai, Sayans, Tuva mountains, Barguzin Ridge, Southern Sikhote Alin).
In traditional medecine, Rhodiola quadrefida is widely used in gynecopathy (to cure infertility, thyroid disorders, endometreosis, ovarian polyps and cysts, muscular tumors (miomas), menstrual disorders and frigidity), and andrology (prostatic hyperplasia and low potency). The main active substance of the plant - glycoside salidroside - has anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, anti-tumor, adaptogenic properties. It normalizes endocrine disorders arising in the course of gynaecological diseases, as well as tyroid and adrenic illnesses. Except for this substance, Rhodiola quadrefida contains up to 4% of pyrogallic tannic compounds, anthraglycosides, essential oils, organic acids, sugars, proteins, fats, waxes, sterins, tertiary alcohols, phenols, tannins, flavonoids and microelements. Rhodiola preparations help to increase immune status and energy level during long sickness periods, enhance mental and physical activity and performance efficiency, improve sleep.
Contraindications: feverish states, high blood pressure, psychic agitation, cardio disorders, pregnancy and lactation, and simultaneous intake of hormonal drugs of both artificial or natural origin.
For general prophylactic and medecine purposes, Rhodiola brews and infusions are used, as well as herbal tea.
To prepare an infusion takes 1 month. Put 50 of dried root in a 0,5 liter bottle and add 40 or 50% ethanol spirit, keep in a dark place at room temperature. Shake the bottle a few times during preparation. Finally, strain the contents and take 1 ts 2 - 3 times a day, 30 min before meals, during 1 month. After a break, repeat the course.
A brew is made from 1 tbs of crushed dried roots covered with 1 glass of boiling water. Keep on water-bath for 20 min, take 3 tbs 3 times a day before meals.
If brewed like usual tea, the drink has very light wheat colour, almost no scent and a fine woody taste. It can be used as a separate drink or as an element of general tonic herbal mixtures, or as an additive to Pu'er. In this case, 3 - 5 properly washed roots can be cooked on open fire (Lu Yui method), or use "pouring brewing method" (pouring boiling water through the material gradually extending brewing period) in a gaiwan or a teapot.
