Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)

Family: Araliaceae

Part Used: Root

Constituents:

Glycosides (syringaresinol, daucosterol), triterpenoid saponins (eleutherosides)

Medicinal Actions:

Adaptogen, mild anxiolytic, vasodilator

Medicinal Uses:

1)Eleutherococcus can enhance the stamina of the body and the mind when a person is under stress. It is especially indicated for exhaustion, either physical or mental.

2)It is indicated for recovery from illness and can reduce the recovery time after surgery.

3)It is indicated when depression is secondary to exhaustion or overwork. The herb also increases endurance, and Russian studies indicate it increases oxygen metabolism of tissues. They used it to increase the stamina of their Olympic athletes.

4)It also has an immunomodulatory effect. The activity of NK cells is increased. The number of T-helper cells is increased.

5)It seems to stimulate adrenal cortex, some sources say it may increase cell replication of adrenal cortex. Studies have shown it can bind to receptor sites for a number of hormones, including the adrenal, estrogen and progesterone. It is thought to enhance the production and activity of DHEA.

6)Dr. Bill Mitchell uses it combined with Avena for exhaustion from overwork of the mental processes. He also combines it with glycine as noted below for anxiety due to stress and overwork. Mix ½ tsp. of glycine and 30 gtt Eleutherococcus in 1 cup hot water. Sip slowly. Glycine reduces production of norepinephrine by the locus ceruleus in the mid brain. The action is calming rather than sedating.

Contraindications:

There are no contraindications, however, Eleutherococcus can enhance the action of antibiotics and hexobarbital due to inhibition of breakdown according to Sherol Tilgner, ND.

Pharmacy:

Tincture (1:5): 20-30 drops BID-TID

Tincture (1:1): 15-30 drops BID-TID

Powdered Root: .25 - 1.0 gram QD in divided dose