Home Supplement-Knowledge-Base Eleuthero
 

Eleuthero

Overview

Eleuthero is a small, woody shrub. People use the root of the plant to make medicine. Eleuthero is sometimes called "Siberian ginseng". But eleuthero is not related to true ginseng. Don't confuse it with American or Panax ginseng.

Eleuthero is often called an "adaptogen." This is a non-medical term used to describe compounds that might improve resistance to stress. But there is no good evidence showing that eleuthero has adaptogen-like effects.

Eleuthero is used for diabetes, athletic performance, memory and thinking skills (cognitive function), the common cold, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence supporting most of its uses.

Classification

Is a Form of:

Shrub

Primary Functions:

Diabetes, athletic performance

Also Known As:

Acanthopanax Obovatus, Acanthopanax Obovatus Hoo, Acanthopanax senticosus

How Does It Work?

Eleuthero contains many chemicals that affect the brain, immune system, and certain hormones. It might also contain chemicals that have activity against some bacteria and viruses.

Uses

  • Common cold. Some research shows that taking a combination product containing eleuthero plus andrographis (Kan Jang, Swedish Herbal Institute) improves symptoms of the common cold. This product must be taken within 72 hours after symptoms begin. Some symptoms can improve after 2 days of treatment. But it usually takes 4-5 days of treatment to get the most benefit.
  • Diabetes. Taking eleuthero extract can reduce blood glucose levels in some people with type 2 diabetes.
  • Genital herpes. Taking a specific eleuthero extract (Elagen) can reduce how often genital herpes flares up.

Recommended Dosing

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:

BY MOUTH:

  • For the common cold: 400 mg of a specific combination product (Kan Jang, Swedish Herbal Institute) containing eleuthero plus andrographis extract, three times daily for 5 days.
  • For diabetes: 480 mg of eleuthero extract, standardized to contain eleutheroside E and B 1.12%, daily for 3 months.
  • For genital herpes: 400 mg of eleuthero extract standardized to contain eleutheroside E 0.3%, daily for 3 months.

Eleuthero Supplements Frequently Asked Questions

What is eleuthero used for?

There is evidence that eleuthero was first used as an herbal remedy in China some 2,000 years ago. The plant is mostly used in traditional medicines as an adaptogen, a compound that helps the body better handle and adapt to stress. Eleuthero also acts as a stimulant, increasing nervous system function.

Is eleuthero the same as ginseng?

Eleuthero is also commonly called Siberian ginseng. However, this name was changed to “eleuthero” to avoid confusion with true ginseng, which includes Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). That said, eleuthero is a relative of ginseng.

How long does it take for eleuthero to work?

Possibly Effective for

Some symptoms can improve after 2 days of treatment. But it usually takes 4-5 days of treatment to get the most benefit. Diabetes. Taking eleuthero extract can reduce blood glucose levels in some people with type 2 diabetes.

Is Eleuthero root safe?

Although eleuthero is likely safe when used in the short term, it may trigger a number of side effects including insomnia, headache, nervousness, drowsiness, and hypoglycemia. ... In these cases, the NIH recommends avoiding the use of eleuthero or using eleuthero only under your doctor's supervision.

Can Eleuthero cause anxiety?

When taken by mouth: Eleuthero is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when taken for up to 3 months. While side effects are rare, some people can have nausea, diarrhea, and rash. In high doses, eleuthero might cause nervousness and anxiety.

How much eleuthero should I take?

BY MOUTH: For the common cold: 400 mg of a specific combination product (Kan Jang, Swedish Herbal Institute) containing eleuthero plus andrographis extract, three times daily for 5 days. For diabetes: 480 mg of eleuthero extract, standardized to contain eleutheroside E and B 1.12%, daily for 3 months.

What are the health benefits of Eleuthero root?

Potential health benefits of eleuthero include:

  • Increasing energy and reducing fatigue.
  • Improving cognitive function.
  • Managing cancer.
  • Enhancing exercise.
  • Healing wounds and preventing ulcers.
  • Increasing low blood pressure
  • Reducing osteoporosis
  • Managing menopause.

Does eleuthero raise blood pressure?

As a stimulant, eleuthero increases circulation and heart rate, and may raise blood pressure over time. This may be beneficial for people with low blood pressure, but can cause risks for people with hypertension.

Is Siberian Eleuthero the same as Siberian Ginseng?

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is an Asian herb. It's been used for thousands of years as a healing remedy in folk medicine. Eleuthero is also commonly called Siberian ginseng.

Clinical Studies