Siberian Ginseng Review and Supplement Guide

Siberian ginseng is the common name for the deciduous shrub Eleutherococcus senticosus. It is also commonly referred to as eleuthero.

The roots of the shrub are harvested in the autumn, dried, and either chopped or ground to medicinal extracts.

Siberian ginseng has a long history of use in China, Siberia and other regions throughout Asia. It is traditionally used to increase energy, fortify the immune system and help the body adapt to stress.

Despite its common name, it has no relation to American ginseng or Asian ginseng, both of which are from the Panax genus. E. senticosus was commonly referred to as Siberian ginseng because it was thought to produce similar effects to other Panax species.

Contemporary investigation reveals that Siberian ginseng has no ginsenosides, the active chemical constituent in American and Asian ginseng. Instead, it contains eleutherosides, which are thought to confer the plant’s therapeutic properties.

Siberian Ginseng

Herbal Supplement

Energy & Stamina

Immune Function

Mood

How It Works:

• Promotes physical performance & endurance
• Supports cognitive abilities & mood
• Boosts immune function & vitality

Dosage:

Between 100 - 300 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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What is Siberian Ginseng?

Siberian ginseng is a slow-growing, perennial shrub. E. senticosus produces a large, meaty root that is dried and used to make decoctions, tinctures or ground and made into capsule or pill form.

Often considered an adaptogen, Siberian ginseng allegedly strengthens the immune system and may increase the body’s resistance to stress.

In addition to being an adaptogen, it is used for conditions of the heart and surrounding blood vessels, such as high and low blood pressure, rheumatic heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Siberian Ginseng Uses

Siberian ginseng is used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine. Unlike American ginseng and Asian ginseng, which are often used to treat ill-health, Siberian ginseng is generally consumed to support good health.

Siberian ginseng has been traditionally used to increase energy and improve physical strength. It was also used for headaches, infection, gastrointestinal issues and sterility.

In more recent years, some studies have indicated Siberian ginseng may play a role in the management of ADHD as well as stabilizing blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

Much of the research on this herb has taken place in Russia where the plant grows naturally. Additional research is necessary to attribute any particular therapeutic use to E. senticosus.

What is an Adaptogen?

Siberian ginseng is considered to be an effective adaptogen. Adaptogens are natural substances that are thought to help the body ward off the effects of physical and mental stress.

E. senticosus is often used during periods of acute stress to help maintain balance. As an adaptogen, it is commonly used to support the immune system.

It is often taken as a preventative measure to assist the body in fighting off ailments. Preliminary studies indicate Siberian ginseng may enhance the actions of immune cells.

Siberian Ginseng Supplements

As a supplement, Siberian ginseng root is available in different forms. The root contains the active eleutherosides which confer the benefits of this herb. This supplement can be purchased as tablets, capsules, liquid tincture and tea.

Be sure to read the label when buying E. senticosus supplements because some manufacturers may add other ingredients or herbs. For instance, there are several brands of Siberian ginseng that contain other root extracts to increase mental focus, enhance energy and support physical vigor.

Siberian Ginseng Research

E. senticosus has been observed to affect blood sugar levels and may help reduce fasting blood sugar in patients with type II diabetes.

In one study, a researcher concluded that effects might be greatest when using Siberian ginseng berries instead of the root extract.

These studies are preliminary. Further investigation is required to understand the effects of Siberian ginseng on blood sugar levels.

Safety and Side Effects

Siberian ginseng is generally well tolerated by humans. Side effects are rare, but can occur if the supplement is used to excess. Reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, high or low blood pressure, nosebleed, anxiety and irritability.

Additional side effects, although rare, may include high or low blood sugar, which can cause dizziness, fainting and lack of motor control.

In order to decrease side effects, this supplement should be taken with food and plenty of water. Exercise caution when taking Siberian ginseng if you have a history of low blood sugar.

Siberian ginseng may act as a blood thinner and should not be combined with medications that have anti-coagulating effects. Use of this herbal supplement should be discontinued between one and two weeks prior to surgery to prevent complications related to increased risk of bleeding.

Also, patients with high blood pressure or hypotension should avoid using Siberian ginseng.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid taking E. senticosus and other herbal supplements, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

Individuals who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder should also avoid this supplement because there is a risk it may increase the severity or frequency of manic episodes.

Those with breast or prostate cancer and other hormone-sensitive conditions should avoid using Siberian ginseng.

Be sure to speak with your doctor before taking Siberian ginseng to make sure the supplement is safe given your specific health and medical history.

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