Siberian ginseng

 

For ages, Eastern nations like China and Russia have used eleuthero, commonly known as Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus). Despite having the same name, it is entirely distinct from Asian (Panax ginseng) and American (Panax quinquefolius) ginseng and contains separate chemically active ingredients. Eleutherosides, the active components of Siberian ginseng, may boost the immune system.

In the past, Siberian ginseng was used to boost vigor, prolong life, and prevent colds and the flu. It is frequently utilized as a "adaptogen" in Russia. An adaptogen is a drug that is said to improve how well the body handles physical or mental stress.

Up until recently, Russia dominated Siberian ginseng scientific study. The following topics have been examined in studies on Siberian ginseng:

A COLD OR THE FLU

When taken within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms, a specific supplement comprising Siberian ginseng and andrographis was demonstrated to lessen the severity and duration of colds in some double-blind studies. Whether Siberian ginseng, andrographis, or a combination of the two herbs was to blame is unknown to researchers.

In one study, the identical substance was put up against the flu medication amantadine. The flu symptoms of those who used the same medication disappeared earlier than those who took amantadine.

Another study discovered that taking Siberian ginseng for 4 weeks increased the number of T-cells in healthy individuals, possibly indicating that their immune systems were more robust.

VIRAL HERPES INFECTION

One double-blind trial of 93 individuals with the genital herpes-causing herpes simplex virus (HSV type 2) discovered that ingesting Siberian ginseng decreased the frequency of outbreaks. When outbreaks did occur, they were not as severe or persisted for as long. Siberian ginseng may be used to help prevent herpes outbreaks; discuss this with your doctor.

MENTAL EFFICIENCY

It's common practice to utilize Siberian ginseng to improve mental attentiveness. However, there aren't enough credible scientific research to support its efficacy. According to an early study, middle-aged volunteers who took Siberian ginseng had better memory than those who took a placebo.

SPORTS PERFORMANCE

Siberian ginseng is frequently credited with enhancing sports performance and boosting muscle power. While some studies have concluded that Siberian ginseng is effective, others have found no benefit.

CONDITION OF LIFE

According to one study, older patients who took Siberian ginseng after 4 weeks of therapy performed better socially and mentally than those who took a placebo. But the advantages started to fade after 8 weeks.

Plant Information

The Far Eastern shrub known as Siberian ginseng can reach heights of three to ten feet. It has a main stem and several lengthy branches that support its leaves. Thorns are present on the stem, branches, and leaves. Yellow or violet flowers form umbrella-shaped clusters and mature into berries in the late summer. The berries are spherical and black. The root is twisted, woody, brownish, and wrinkled.

What's the composition?

The root is used to make supplements with Siberian ginseng. Eleutherosides, a blend of the root's ingredients, are thought to provide health advantages. Other constituents include substances referred to as polysaccharides, which have been demonstrated in animal studies to strengthen the immune system and lower blood sugar levels.

accessible forms

In addition to dried or sliced root for tea, Siberian ginseng is also offered in liquid extracts, solid extracts, powders, capsules, and tablets.

The quality of various herbal products, including Siberian ginseng, may vary substantially. As many as 25% of commercial goods tested negative for Siberian ginseng, according to tests. Plus, several were tainted with ingredients not marked on the label. Buy all herbal items, including Siberian ginseng, from reliable producers. Get assistance from your pharmacist.

How to take it?

Siberian ginseng should not be given to children.

Siberian ginseng is available in a variety of forms for adult usage, and it is frequently mixed with other herbs and vitamins for things like weariness and alertness. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the ideal dosage for you.

Siberian ginseng can be used for three months, followed by three to four weeks off, to treat chronic disorders like exhaustion or stress. Siberian ginseng should NOT be taken without a doctor's approval.