I've been taking Rhodiola, on and off, for over twenty years. After reading many, many articles about it and its adaptogenic properties, including some in the National Library of Medicine, I decided to try it. I was feeling tired with little energy for anything and tried to pinpoint the cause. Some kind of vitamin deficiency? Thyroid problem? Granted, my work situation and commute, like for many people, could be stressful. Started taking it and realized that I no longer was tired or stressed. I felt "normal." And that's what this supplement does for me - it makes me feel "normal." In other words, I don't feel like I'm taking some kind of stimulant, or anything for that matter. I don't feel like I've taken anything - just have the feeling of not being tired. As an added bonus, it appears to help me with sleep, too. So, here's a thumbs-up for Rhodiola. There's definitely something to it. I have recommended this my friends, and they have reported also that there's a definite uptick of energy and well-being, but not like a cup of coffee. The well-being sneaks up on you and you don't realize you've taken anything; you just feel good! Update for 2024: I stopped taking Rhodiola for about six months. After that time period, I decided to take it again, but made the mistake of buying another brand (which I won't mention here) that did not work as before with the NOW supplement. It made me jittery and in a bad mood. MMmm ... stopped taking it and went back to "old faithful" - the one that had worked for so long, originally starting maybe 15+ years ago - NOW Rhodiola. Suffice it to say that it's working just fine. I feel "normal" again and not tired and dragging. Exercise came much easier and sleep has again vastly improved. Well, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I should have never gone with the other brand, which was a little cheaper. Cheaper doesn't, as we know, mean better! Read more