The use of Eleuthero for weight loss is said to help control hunger cravings and increase energy. But how effective is it for burning fat and combatting obesity?
Eleuthero is derived from the roots of the deciduous shrub Eleutherococcus senticosus, which is indigenous to Siberia and other parts of Asia. The roots of the shrub are harvested in the autumn and dried to make supplements.
Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It has also been commonly used by the people of Siberia to increase energy, stamina and endurance.
These characteristics of eleuthero may help support a healthy weight loss program. While some diet pills claim to support weight loss by boosting the metabolism, eleuthero may help by improving motivation and increasing energy.
Additionally, eleuthero is sometimes claimed to help curb cravings for sugary foods. Many of these claims are rooted in traditional use, but little scientific research is available to endorse the use of eleuthero for any particular therapeutic purpose.



- Promotes physical performance & endurance
- Supports cognitive abilities & mood
- Boosts immune function & vitality
Can Eleuthero Burn Calories?
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Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, is considered an adaptogen. This name is given to natural products that help the body better cope with mental and physical stress.
As a weight loss supplement, eleuthero does not directly burn fat or increase your metabolism.
It may support fat loss results as part of a healthy diet and exercise program. Some users who take this supplement say that it increases their motivation and energy for working out while helping to reduce appetite.
Traditionally, eleuthero is said to fight fatigue. Fatigue can be a major impediment to weight loss. Individuals who feel tired all the time may not be motivated to be active and instead spend much of their time resting or even sleeping.
Eleuthero is sometimes used to increase energy, which may help you get out and be active. Weight loss largely depends on what and how much you eat, as well as how active you are. Eleuthero may support weight loss by curbing cravings and increasing your energy level.
Eleuthero Mental Benefits
Eleuthero is used to stimulate the mind and increase mental clarity. This has the potential to improve your productivity at work or at home so that you can burn more calories.
Research done in Russia indicates increased productivity of workers who took eleuthero. More productivity may translate into increased activity and increased calorie expenditure.
Eleuthero and Endurance
Eleuthero is used to increase athletic endurance and stamina. Users take Siberian Ginseng to improve their ability to work out for longer periods of time without feeling fatigued. This may help support good health and weight loss.
Following a consistent exercise program is critical in maintaining good health and losing weight.
Eleuthero and Physical Strength
Eleuthero is often used for physical strength and stamina. It was even used by the Russian Olympic team in 1988—a fact that the Russians say contributed to the country’s many victories. Although eleuthero has been claimed to improve physical strength, there is little scientific research available to verify this claim.
Eleuthero and Stress Response
Eleuthero is considered an adaptogen: a natural substance that helps the body ward off the effects of physical and mental stress. Eleuthero has also been observed to impact hormone levels. It is claimed to help balance the hormones, particularly cortisol, which is elevated during periods of chronic stress.
High cortisol levels can lead to weight gain. By taking eleuthero you may help lower your cortisol levels, which can support a health body weight. Reducing the level of cortisol will naturally reduce stress-related weight gain.
Eleuthero and Food Cravings
Many people who are stress eaters will gain weight during prolonged periods of stress.
As a general tonic, eleuthero may help reduce a person’s craving for sweets and may help reduce stress eating. This can support weight loss results by reducing caloric intake.
Eleuthero has been taken with herbal supplements used for fat burning and weight loss. Herbalists combine eleuthero with a number of herbs to create custom weight loss formulas, including ones that contain Rhodiola Rosea or Ashwagandha extract.
Some of these herbs may have complementary stimulant effects which may increase the metabolism and increase physical activity levels. According to some research, these combinations may contribute to increased physical output, reduced cravings for sweets and improved mental clarity.
However, the use of stimulants for weight loss may not be safe for all individuals. Some herbal ingredients may be dangerous if used at excess dosages. Speak to a qualified doctor or naturopath for recommendations on herbs to combine with eleuthero for a weight loss diet.
Is Eleuthero for Weight Loss Safe?
Eleuthero has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and by the peoples of Siberia. The herb is not commonly associated with severe side effects.
Natural Medicines notes that eleuthero is likely safe when taken orally and appropriately. Nevertheless, eleuthero has been observed to have a number of biological effects and may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Be sure to speak with your doctor before taking eleuthero, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking any prescription medications.
Conclusions
Eleuthero does not increase metabolism or have a direct effect on fat cells. Nevertheless, some use eleuthero to help support their energy levels and work to reduce stress, which are important factors in a healthy weight loss plan.
The use of Siberian Ginseng for weight loss may have indirect benefits that relate to mood, fatigue, hunger cravings and cortisol levels. Eleuthero supplements may also be combined with other herbs to promote fat burning effects.
- Vogler BK, Pittler MH, Ernst E. The efficacy of ginseng. A systematic review of randomised clinical trials. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1999 Oct;55(8):567-75.
- University of Maryland Medical Center. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Guide: Siberian ginseng. Accessed: November 2015
- Natural Medicines. Ginseng, Siberian: Professional Monograph. Updated 2/14/2015.
Article last updated on: April 8th, 2018 by Nootriment