Siberian Ginseng
Eleutherococcus senticosus
Main active constituents
Eleutherosides, Phenylpropanoids, Lignans, Coumarins, Sugars, Polysaccharides, Triterpenoid, Saponins, Glycan.
Physiological Effects
Parts Used: Roots
Siberian Ginseng Benefits
Adaptogen Rumor has it that Siberian Ginseng was the first ever herb to have the term “Adaptogen” applied to it. Adaptogens are a unique group of herbal ingredients which help your body adjust to stressful circumstances, ranging from extreme heat or cold to infections or trauma.
Siberian Ginseng aids in the recovery from strenuous exercise and extreme mental exertion. Its adaptogenic qualities make it a must have herb for those engaged in highly stressful jobs or high energy activities. It is also extremely useful to those working in abnormally high or low temperature environments.
Immune System Another important action of an adaptogen is “immunomodulation” – a process by which an immune response is altered to the desired level. This is partly achieved by recharging exhausted adrenal glands - when these glands become over-taxed leading to different systems in the body to break down.
Siberian ginseng consists of a group of glycosides known as eleutherosides. The evidence is mounting that Siberian Ginseng enhances and supports immune system response, making it a possible natural alternative in the long term management of various diseases of the immune system. German research has shown that it increases lymphocytes – important components of the immune system which act as the body’s primary defence against viral infections. They found that Siberian Ginseng significantly increases the activity and number of CD4 cells, a subset of T-lymphocyte cells, whose proper activity is crucial to the ability of the immune system to function normally.
The jury is still out as to how Siberian Ginseng achieves this powerful effect on the immune system, with some researchers believing it induces increased interferon biosynthesis (interferon is a powerful chemical which boosts immune-system activity). Others attribute its success to the naturally occurring polysaccharides (long chain sugar molecules), which stimulate the activity of special white blood cells called “macrophages”. Macrophages play a number of roles in the immune system, including the breakdown of infected cells and the stimulation of other immune cells.
Energy Enhancement – Mental and Physical Classed as a tonic herb and a mild stimulant, Siberian Ginseng has the ability to increase your work capacity after a single dose, increasing both immediate and long term energy.
Besides protecting the body from stress, Siberian Ginseng also increases oxygenation of the cells, thereby increasing endurance, alertness and even visual acuity. This increased oxygenation leads to better circulation – especially to the brain – helping to restore memory, concentration and mental clarity.
A favourite supplement for professional runners, Siberian Ginseng delivers a powerful energy boost. It is so popular that it’s hard to find any runners who do not take it before a race – simply because they cannot outrun the other competitors who do use it.
Sexual Health This adaptable herb is beneficial to both men and women in the realm of sexual health. In women it supports healthy menstruation and uterine tone. It is often prescribed by herbalists to combat infertility related depression and fatigue.
Offering a fertility boost to men too, a recent study found it significantly raises free testosterone levels resulting in a better sperm count and motility.
Contraindications/Precautions
Do not take Siberian Ginseng if:
You are taking digoxin: In a case report, Siberian ginseng elevated blood levels of this medication, which may also increase its side effects.
Do not take if pregnant, breast feeding or with high blood pressure. Not recommended for those taking Barbituates for sleep or seizures. Not recommended for those taking oral anti-diabetic drugs, such as Warfarin, heparin and aspirin.
Disclaimer
This information is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.