Siberian ginseng, also known as Eleutherococcus senticosus or eleuthero, is a plant used in traditional medicine in Russia and China. Its roots contain chemical compounds called eleutherosides, which appear to increase the effectiveness of your immune system. Potential uses for Siberian ginseng include treatment of colds and influenza as well as generalized immune support.
The Facts
Traditionally, Siberian ginseng is used as an adaptogen, a term applied to any substance that improves your body's abilities to deal with physical or mental stress, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center lists additional uses that include immune system stimulation and performance enhancement. In addition to eleutherosides, Siberian ginseng contains another group of active ingredients called polysaccharides, which may lower your blood sugar levels and also boost your immune function.
Colds and Influenza
When used in combination with an herb called andrographis, Siberian ginseng may reduce the intensity of your cold or flu symptoms, particularly when taken within three days of symptom onset, the UMMC reports. The activity of this herbal combination may be superior to that of the antiviral drug amantidine. However, doctors have not determined whether Siberian ginseng or andrographis provides the main treatment benefit.
Additional Benefits
Use of Siberian ginseng can improve your scores on a number of tests that measure your immune function, the UMMC explains. Additional potential areas of benefit include decreased activity of herpes simplex virus type 2, increases in muscle strength and physical stamina and restoration or maintenance of mental alertness. However, the UMMC notes, clear evidence is lacking for improvements in mental or physical performance. Memorial Sloan-Kettering reports additional potential benefits of Siberian ginseng that include reduction of cholesterol in post-menopausal women and increased production of specific killer cells in your immune system.
Production and Ingredients
You may obtain Siberian ginseng in forms that include teas, powders, solid and liquid extracts, capsules and tablets, according to the UMMC. However, be aware that the production of such products is not standardized, and the amount of actual ginseng available in a given product can vary significantly. You should also note the fact that some Siberian ginseng products may contain substances that do not appear in their listed ingredients. To ensure the quality of your purchase, the UMMC recommends dealing only with reputable manufacturers, in addition to consulting your local pharmacy for advice.
Considerations
You should not use Siberian ginseng if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have medical conditions including sleep apnea, narcolepsy or high blood pressure, the UMMC notes. Potential side effects of Siberian ginseng products include low blood sugar, insomnia, headaches, drowsiness, nosebleeds, high blood pressure, vomiting, confusion and heartbeat irregularities.
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