Siberian Ginseng Root & Weight Loss

Siberian ginseng root is a popular ingredient in herbal weight-loss supplements and is often advertised as a substance that increases energy and improves athletic performance, although clinical evidence does not support the use of Siberian ginseng root for these purposes. Siberian ginseng, also called eleuthero, is not to be confused with American ginseng or panax ginseng, both of which have different active chemical components than Siberian ginseng.

History

Siberian ginseng is a shrub native to the Far East whose root is used to make medicine. Eastern countries, including China and Russia, have used Siberian ginseng root medicinally for centuries. The root has traditionally been used to treat colds and flu symptoms and to increase stamina, longevity and vitality. This plant is often referred to as an "adaptogen," a nonmedical term used to describe a substance that helps the body cope with physical and mental stress.

Effects

While Siberian ginseng is touted by herbal medicine proponents as an herb that aids weight loss and increases energy, medical research does not support these claims, or most other health claims regarding Siberian ginseng. The only medicinal uses for which Siberian ginseng is possibly effective are treating symptoms of herpes simplex type 2 infections and relieving symptoms of the common cold when taken in conjunction with an herb called andrographis, according to MedlinePlus. Siberian ginseng is probably ineffective at improving physical performance, and there is insufficient evidence to rate its effectiveness in treating fatigue or other conditions.

Weight-Loss Supplements

Although evidence doesn't indicate that Siberian ginseng aids weight loss, this herb is a popular ingredient in nonprescription weight-loss pills. In a study published in the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association" in 2006, researchers conducted an audit of weight-loss supplements sold at retail outlets in a southeastern U.S. city. Using a sampling of 73 outlets, the audit identified 402 weight loss products containing over 4,000 ingredients. Siberian ginseng root was one of the 10 ingredients that appeared most often across these products. Based on a database search of clinical studies, researchers concluded that "inadequate or negative evidence" exists to support the effectiveness of Siberian ginseng, or six other of the 10 most popular ingredients identified in the audit, in promoting weight loss.

Quality

The quality of Siberian ginseng root supplements varies widely. The products often contain inactive ingredients such as silk vine, which take up space in the product but don't contribute to its effectiveness. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, tests of commercially sold products claiming to contain Siberian ginseng root revealed that as many as 25 percent of these supplements contained no measurable amount of Siberian ginseng root at all, and many contained ingredients not listed on the label. If you decide to take Siberian ginseng root, make sure the product comes from a reputable manufacturer.

Safety

Siberian ginseng root is generally considered safe when used as directed, although you should not take it if you have certain health conditions. People with high blood pressure, sleep apnea and narcolepsy should not take Siberian ginseng root, and neither should women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The substance may also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, sedatives for insomnia and a medication used to treat heart problems called digoxin. Side effects are generally rare but may include anxiety, irregular heartbeat, drowsiness, muscle spasms and others. Increased blood pressure can occur with high doses.