Caffeine vs Rhodiola
for energy / fatigue
Stronger evidence: Caffeine
Stronger effect: Caffeine
Safety: Rhodiola has the more serious interaction profile (minor vs uncertain).
For energy / fatigue, Caffeine has the stronger evidence grade.
Caffeine
grade B moderate certainty
reduces perceived fatigue; tolerance develops with regular use
40–200 mg
Rhodiola
grade C low certainty
small reductions in fatigue in stressed adults; studies are short and small
sources: PMID:00000021 · PMID:00000031