Natural Remedies - Healing with Medicinal Herbs

Siberian ginseng

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus Araliaceae)


Other Names: Eleuthero, Russian Ginseng

Siberian ginseng, a prickly shrub from Siberia reaching up to three meters, has gray stems with palmate leaves and small globular flowers (yellow for female, purple for male) on smooth stalks.


Parts for Use

Roots

  1. Harvested in autumn before leaf fall or in spring during new growth.
  2. Used as dry extract, powder, tincture, or decoction.
  3. Leaves are under research for potential use, but roots are primary.

Ingredients

Contains polysaccharides and eleutherosides (A–G, I–M), believed to enhance immune function and support overall health.


Use in Treatment

Siberian ginseng is an adaptogen, helping the body cope with physical and psychological stress. Russian physicians first recognized its stress-relieving properties, while Western Europe uses it for fatigue and high blood pressure. A 2000 American study highlighted its potential anti-cancer properties and immune system support. A 1987 German study showed it increases lymphocyte count, aiding protection against viral infections. It also stimulates the central nervous system and adrenal glands, supports impotence treatment, lowers blood sugar, and reduces inflammation.


Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in a sunny or lightly shaded area.


Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Stress, Fatigue, Viral Infections)

  1. Tincture (1:3 in 25% alcohol): Take 10–20 drops with water 3 times daily after meals.
  2. Capsules (150 mg powder): Take 1 capsule 3 times daily with water.
  3. Capsules (50 mg dry extract): Take 4–6 capsules daily with water.

Warnings

  1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
  2. Limit use to 1 month, with a 2-month break before resuming.
  3. Avoid in hyperactive, schizophrenic, or manic individuals.
  4. Not suitable for those with insomnia, high blood pressure, obesity, irregular heartbeat, or benign breast disease.
  5. Avoid during pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children pre-puberty, or with oral contraceptives.
  6. Avoid alcohol, stimulants, and spicy foods during use.