by Timothy Culbert, MD, IFMCP

Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Siberian Ginseng) Benefits

Eleuthero Senticosus (also known as Siberian Ginseng) is a flowering shrub. Its root, bark, leaves, and berries all contain bioactive compounds that may have positive health effects. It's important to note that although eleuthero is in same family of herbs as American and Asian ginseng, it is not the same plant. Eleuthero contains a different set of active compounds and therefore isn't a substitute for other ginseng plants. 

Eleuthero is a staple of traditional medicine in China, Korea, and eastern Russia. And though research is limited on its effectiveness, it has been used for many medical and mental health issues including diabetes, memory and cognitive support, balancing blood pressure, cancer care, heart disease, and to ease the effects of stress.  

Eleuthero for Calm

As noted above, the roots, berries, and leaves of eleuthero each contain many biologically active compounds (most notable of these are called eleutherosides). For example, eleuthero berries contain high levels of antioxidants and potential cancer-fighting compounds. They are also high in important minerals like potassium and magnesium. Those compounds and minerals might also work to ease anxiousness.

There is limited research available on the applications of eleuthero for anxiety and stress symptoms.  However, there are some key reasons why eleuthero may be supportive for these applications. For example, eleuthero is considered to be an adaptogen. Adaptogens are substances that help the body function normally under stress. 

Eleuthero also increases catecholamines (such as norepinephrine and dopamine) in the parts of the brain responsible for managing stress. The exact way it influences their levels and activity is unknown. Eleuthero may also affect levels of a brain chemical called BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor). BDNF helps nervous tissue grow and reorganize itself, and it protects the brain from damage. Levels of BDNF may be low in anxiety and depression.

Eleuthero Dosage and Use

There is no standardized dosage for eleuthero because the extract is not standardized and different studies may use different parts of the plant. No sufficiently powered study has been conducted to find a safe and effective dose for any medical purpose.

Most eleuthero compounds are made from eleutherococcus root, which is considered very safe to consume. Based on limited clinical research, people with mild to moderate fatigue may benefit from as little as 2 – 4 g/day, equivalent to 2 – 3 mg of eleutherosides. For a variety of conditions, it appears that standardized extracts of eleuthero are commonly dosed at between 200-400 MG once or twice daily. 

Eleuthero Side Effects

Eleuthero is likely safe when used in the short term. It could cause a number of side effects including insomnia, headache, skin rash, nervousness, nausea, and diarrhea.

It's also important to take caution when using Siberian ginseng if you have high blood pressure, a heart condition, diabetes, a hormone-sensitive condition (such as breast cancer or uterine fibroids), or a mental condition (such as mania or schizophrenia). In these cases, avoid the use of eleuthero (or use under close supervision with your doctor).

And remember: Never start a new supplement until you speak with your doctor.*

Eleuthero Supplements at Natural Mental Health

Stress Support is a blend of Eleuthero Root Extract (200 MG) with additional nutrients and herbs to help combat the negative effects of stress. 

Adapt contains 150 mg of Eleuthero Root Extract combined with other micronutrients and herbs formulated to balance cortisol and DHEA levels.

*Note: Some of the supplements discussed in this article can cause side effects, but many people tolerate them much better than prescription medications. They are generally considered safe, however, they should not be started without your doctor’s knowledge and supervision. If you are taking medication already, be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any of these items. If you are considering going off medication, remember never to stop your medication suddenly—always consult with your doctor about how to safely taper off any psychiatric medication. See terms.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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SOURCES

Panossian, Alexander, and Georg Wikman. “Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress-Protective Activity.” Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 3,1 188-224. 19 Jan. 2010, doi:10.3390/ph3010188

Bleakney, T. L. (2008). Deconstructing an adaptogen: Eleutherococcus senticosus. Holistic nursing practice, 22(4), 220-224.

Pavlovich, N. (1999). Herbal remedies: the natural approach to combating stress. Journal of Perianesthesia Nursing, 14(3), 134-138.

Pawar, V. S., & Shivakumar, H. (2012). A current status of adaptogens: natural remedy to stress. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2, S480-S490.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-benefits-of-eleuthero-89449

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-985/eleuthero

https://www.healthline.com/health/eleuthero