Siberian ginseng, also called eleuthero, is not the same as American ginseng or Panax ginseng. These plants have different active ingredients and are used differently, so you cannot substitute one type for the other. Siberian ginseng might help reduce stress, treat the common cold and the herpes simplex 2 virus, and strengthen the immune system and improve memory, but evidence into the use of Siberian ginseng for these conditions is preliminary and contradictory.
Siberian Ginseng and Pregnancy
Do not use Siberian ginseng during pregnancy. Although no adverse effects have been documented, the safety of Siberian ginseng during pregnancy is not well-studied. As a supplement, it is not regulated by the FDA the same way as drugs are regulated, so supplements might not be pure and might not contain ingredients in the amounts specified on the label.
Adulteration of Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng supplements often contain added ingredients or ingredients that are misidentified as Siberian ginseng, according to MedlinePlus. This can be especially dangerous for pregnant women, since Siberian ginseng supplements sometimes contains Chinese silk vine, which can cause neonatal androgenization. Because the purity of these supplements cannot be guaranteed, pregnant women should avoid them.
Side Effects and Safety
Siberian ginseng can cause side effects, including anxiety, muscle spasms, irregular heart rhythms, sadness, diarrhea, nervousness, confusion, headache, insomnia, vomiting, drowsiness, nosebleeds and increases in blood pressure. Some people also experience allergic reactions to Siberian ginseng. This herbal medicine also can interact with medications, including blood thinners, lithium, digoxin, sedatives and diabetes medications.
Considerations
Never take supplements without first consulting your doctor. There is limited evidence for the benefits of taking Siberian ginseng. Due to the risk for side effects, drug interactions and adulterants in Siberian ginseng supplements, it is best to play it safe and avoid this herb during pregnancy. Some of the possible side effects increase your risk for dehydration or high blood pressure, both of which can be dangerous during pregnancy.
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