Rhodiola, also known as Arctic root or golden root, is a healing herb popular in Europe and Russia close to the Arctic circle. It is used in Russia as a general tonic and to fight fatigue and memory problems as well as poor attention span. Scandinavian countries use it to increase strength and to make workers more productive. It is also used to improve mood and fight depression. It strengthens the nervous system. It helps strengthen the immune system. The Vikings used it to increase strength and stamina and the ancient Greek physician Dioscorides wrote about it in 77 A.D. It helps prevent high altitude illness. It helps muscles recover after strenuous workouts. It can help with heart problems, especially those caused by stress. It inhibits the growth of cancer tumors. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and also aids hearing problems. It aids in fat breakdown in those trying to loose weight (a Russian study found that dieters that took rhodiola lost weight more than twice as fast as those who didn't). It improves thyroid function which can also aid in weight reduction. It slows down aging in the thymus and adrenal glands. It is said to be a fairly effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. It fights insomnia, irritability and headaches related to stress. It improves circulation problems. It fights infections and helps one to cope with very cold weather, a purpose for which it is often used in Siberia. It aids in lowering cholesterol and serum fat levels.