Eleutherococcus (Eleutherococcus senticosus), or Siberian ginseng, — a mild adaptogen used to enhance vitality, endurance, and stress resistance.
Historically used by the peoples of Siberia and East Asia, it gained scientific recognition and widespread use in phytotherapy in the 20th century.
The main value of the plant — the root, which contains active substances called eleutherosides, as well as glycosides, polysaccharides, flavonoids, vitamins (including C), and minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium).
Health Benefits
- improvement of memory, concentration, and performance during mental exertion;
- increased physical endurance and reduced recovery time after exertion;
- support for the immune system, decreased frequency of colds, and accelerated recovery after illnesses;
- support for the heart and blood vessels, normalization of cholesterol levels;
- reduction of blood sugar levels;
- normalization of sleep, reduction of sleepwalking episodes without daytime drowsiness;
- adaptation to stress and assistance in cases of adrenal exhaustion.
Recommended Dosages
Recommended dosages depend on the form of release:
- tincture — 20–100 drops per day (1–2 times);
- capsules — 1–5 pieces per day;
- dry herb — 1 tsp per cup of decoction.
Glycosides are extracted by boiling or steeping.
Courses usually last 6–8 weeks with a break of 1–2 weeks.
Possible Risks of Excess and Their Manifestations
Overdose may cause insomnia, irritability, anxiety, and headaches.
Not recommended during active infections, high fever, or hypertensive crisis.
It enhances the effects of some cardiovascular medications and antibiotics (especially from the macrolide class), so caution is required when taken together.
