Rhodiola rosea, sometimes called "golden root," is a hardy alpine plant that has been used for centuries across Siberia, Scandinavia, and Tibet to survive extreme cold and high altitudes. Traditional healers recommended Rhodiola to reduce fatigue, improve stamina, and sharpen mental clarity during long winters or demanding journeys. In folklore, warriors chewed the root before battle to maintain strength and endurance. Modern science has classified Rhodiola as an adaptogen because it helps regulate the body’s stress response, lowering cortisol while boosting energy production at the cellular level. Studies suggest that Rhodiola supports mitochondrial function, allowing the body to endure physical strain more efficiently. It has been researched for improving athletic performance, memory, and even mood stability, making it a plant that bridges physical resilience with emotional balance. In Russia and the USSR, Rhodiola became a focus of Cold War research, with extracts reportedly given to soldiers, athletes, and cosmonauts to enhance performance under extreme stress. Today, Rhodiola continues to be valued worldwide as a supplement for reducing burnout, balancing energy, and helping the body adapt to both physical and mental challenges. Its history reflects humanity’s deep connection to nature’s strategies for survival and strength.