MinerAlert
Eleutherococcus senticosus
Siberian “ginseng”*, Ginseng siberiano, Eleuterococo. *Note: This species is not considered a true ginseng. It belongs to the same plant family (Araliaceae) as the true ginsengs (Panax ginseng and P. qui
The root.
This herb is usually taken as a tea, in capsules, tinctures or extracts.
This plant is used as an invigorating tonic to combat stress and fatigue. It purportedly enhances physical endurance and mental concentration ability. Most of the early research on this herb came from the ex-Soviet Union, where it was tested mainly on athletes. The results shown were positive, but some of the research trials have been criticized by western scientists as being flawed in their methodology, as well in the interpretation of the results. Soviet scientists coined the term “adaptogen” to describe a substance or herb that could increase resistance to stress or had an invigorating action upon the consumer. Thus eleuthero is considered to be, along with the true ginsengs (American and Korean), an adaptogenic herb. Currently, eleuthero is used to increase resistance to physical and mental stress, with varying results. The herb also lowers blood sugar levels. Its active ingredients may be of use in combating herpes simplex type II infections, but more research in human subjects is needed to reach a definitive conclusion. Eleuthero has been used to adulterate certain herbal products claimed to contain true ginseng (Panax ginseng or P. quinquefolius ).
Safety/Precautions:
Before you decide to take any medicinal herb or herbal supplement, be sure to consult with your health care professional first. Avoid self-diagnosis and self-medication: Always be on the safe side!