Eleutherococcus Senticosus
One of the Russian Adaptogens

Eleutherococcus Senticosus is an herbal adaptogen known for its ability to enhance physical and mental performance and reduce the effects of prolonged stress and overwork.

Eleutherococcus Senticosus is one of the main herbal adaptogens in use today.

To be classified as an adaptogen an herb must be generally harmless. It must affect the body in ways that promote homeostasis, resistance to stress and general wellbeing.

Herbalists often suggest using this herb to:

• enhance energy, vitality, endurance and stamina
• improve mental clarity
• assist in recovery from athletic exertion,
• help with sleep deprivation and jet lag
• act as a tonic for the immune system.

This herb is one of the Russian adaptogens which was studied extensively during the 1050’s, through 1970’s.

Studies done on over 2,000 healthy people suggest this herb helps people adapt and recover from many kind of stressful situations including:

• increased work load,
• heat,
• noise,
• exercise and
• radiation exposure.

It used to be called Siberian Ginseng. However in the United States, the term Ginseng may now only be used to describe herbs in the genus Panax.

This herb derives from the east. It can be found growing in Siberia, Korea, China and Japan.

In traditional Chinese medicine this plant root is often used for conditions involving wind and dampness. It is said to strengthen the qi of the spleen and kidney meridians.

Usage and Safety for
Eleutherococcus Senticosus

It is often taken as a tablet, capsule, tea or tincture.

This herb is generally considered mild and safe. It can be used by men and women, young people and the elderly.

However it is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation. There are rare but occasional side effects for some people and conditions. It may have undesirable interactions with certain types of drugs and medications. So if you have a medical condition or are taking medications, please consult with a knowledgeable health care practitioner before using.

Also, be sure to purchase your herbs from a knowledgeable and reputable source.

Click here to explore other herbal adaptogens and plants which can be used for effective herbal stress relief.

Or, return to Gentle Stress Relief home page for an overview of many complimentary approaches to reducing stress.

Sources:

Winston, David and Maimes, Steven. 2007. Adaptogens Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. Rochester, Vermont: Healing Arts Press

Scalzo, Richard and Cruz, Omar. Traditional Medicines from the Earth. 2002-2007. Brevard, North Carolina: Herbal Research Publications

Hoffmann, David. 2003. Medical Herbalism The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester Vermont: Healing Arts Press

Gaia Herbs. "Herb of the Week: Eleuthero Root (Eleutherococcus senticosus)http://www.gaiaherbs.com/herb_of_the_week.php?id=32