Ingredient verification program motivated by concerns raised by ABC Adulterants Bulletin on Rhodiola rosea.
Botanical Liaisons and NaturPro Scientific have jointly completed a successful ingredient identity verification program for RhodioLife Rhodiola rosea L.—which is marketed in the United States by PLT Health Solutions. Verification of RhodioLife identity was based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including supplier verification, chain of custody review and identity testing using HPLC and DNA testing. The authenticity of Rhodiola dietary supplement products has been called into question by the Oct. 2017 publication of “Adulteration of Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) Rhizome, Root and Extracts” by the American Botanical Council (ABC). The report, authored by top natural products experts, outlined that less expensive Rhodiola species grown in China may be commonly added to the intended species, resulting in its adulteration.
According to Trish Flaster, CEO and founder of Botanical Liaisons, who led the review team, a spike in demand for Rhodiola in the U.S. and globally may be responsible for quality and identity issues. “The global demand for Rhodiola rosea has rapidly increased, which has led to shortages of authentic material. Most harvesting comes from alpine regions and forests, where supplies can be depleted quickly without replanting and sustainability efforts,” said Ms. Flaster. “I applaud PLT Health Solutions for taking the initiative to develop a sustainable supply by building relationships with rural co-ops in the Altai Mountains,” she added.
