Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero) - Benefits, Uses & Supplements
Updated Aug. 10th, 2023
What is Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)?
Eleutherococcus senticosus is a woody shrub with thick twisted root that is often called "Eleuthero" for short. It is found in the forests of south-eastern Russia, northern China, Korea and Japan. Eleuthero is also called "Siberian ginseng" and is often grouped with other herbs known as ginsengs, although it has distinct chemical constituents called eleutherosides.
Like the other ginsengs, eleuthero can be used as an adaptogen. It is also an antioxidant, a nervine (to decrease anxiety), an immune system tonic, and has anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol reducing properties. Eleuthero is currently used by healthcare providers for the treatment of: chronic fatigue, lupus, HIV, as well as cold and flu. It is also used to prevent herpes simplex outbreaks and to treat cases of both adrenal and endocrine dysfunction due to chronic stress. It is particularly renowned for its mood and energy enhancing effects.
Historical and Traditional Uses of Siberian Ginseng
The Chinese have used Eleuthero for at least the last 2,000 years. They used the root and root bark to prevent respiratory infections, and as a cardiovascular tonic. This herb was said to restore vigor and vitality, memory, increase appetite, boost stamina, and improve general health. Similarly, Russian folk remedies often included Eleuthero for improved strength, stamina, physical performance and memory, as well as for countering chronic fatigue, and stimulating the immune system to prevent cold and flu infections.
How can I take Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)?
Eleuthero can be taken internally as an extract or by using the whole herb, dried and powdered. Often Siberian ginseng will be found in combination formulas along with other ginsengs or other adaptogenic herbs and nutrients. In general, the dose is 2-3 grams per day of whole herb, or 300 to 400mg per day of solid extract standardized to 0.8% eleutherosides. Liquid, alcohol based extracts can be taken between 8 and 10ml per day in divided doses. Although it is taken in similar dosages to the other ginsengs, Eleuthero can be taken for longer periods of time without rest due to its gentle, and more nourishing nature.
Important Information
There are minimal side effects reported with the use of Siberian ginseng, although some individuals may find it interferes with sleep if taken too close to bedtime. Eleuthero is not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure or cardiac disease and must be used with caution for those on medication for high blood pressure. Also be cautious when using digoxin with Eleuthero. Due to a lack of research, Eleuthero should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.
Using an adaptogenic supplement like Siberian ginseng can really decrease your stress levels. I as going through a particularly bad stressful time when I got divorced from my now ex-husband, and my friend suggested I take Siberian ginseng. After a few days I felt the edge of the stress lifting and felt like I could handle things much better. Unlike Chinese ginseng, Siberian ginseng won't raise your blood pressure.
Hello Peggy,
Thank you for sharing. We're glad you were able to find a natural way to support you during such an emotional and stressful time. We hope stress is at bay now and you're feeling good!
Stay healthy & well.
This potent adaptogen is known to help protect the body from the effects of chronic stress and help relieve symptoms of low mood and anxiety.
Hello Jason,
We're glad you enjoyed our Siberian Ginseng article. It is a great supplement to support adrenal health as well as many other benefits outlined in our article. Happy you have been enjoying learning with us to better manage your health, naturally.
Have a healthy day!
I'm not surprised, actually! There are so many different environments in the world and plants really gain much of their function from the environment that they grow in (for example, even the simple black bean can have 3g of sugar versus zero based on the region it is grown or variety of the beans: an even more interesting example is Italian rosemary which may be the most potent rosemary for antiaging purposes). I am curious about eleutherosides: if siberian ginseg is superior to ginseg in for certain purposes, studies adding back or depleting these components would be really fascinating to see if they contribute to the mechansim!
Hello Rachel,
Ginseng is a fascinating herb that offers many health benefits, as you've learned in this article. There are also many types of ginseng that all offer different benefits for differing health concerns. You can learn more about the different types of ginseng here, https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/supplements/gingseng/
Stay healthy & well!