As its name suggests, Siberian ginseng grows in Russia, but farmers also cultivate the medicinal herb in Korea, China and Japan. Short-term use of Siberian ginseng, also known as Eleuthero, generally carries a low risk of side effects. In some cases, however, symptoms such as heart palpitations may occur. Always ask your doctor before trying any herbal remedies, especially if you have a heart condition or are taking prescription medications.
Herb
A traditional herb for treating and preventing a range of complaints, Siberian ginseng root is a traditional Asian adaptogen, meaning a medicine that addresses and heals the specific problems of the person taking it. Although it contains different compounds than the unrelated American and Asian ginseng plants, all three ginsengs reputedly bolster the immune system, increase energy and sharpen mental alertness. According to the National Library of Medicine, some healers suggest using Siberian ginseng for treating heart conditions such as rheumatic heart disease, atherosclerosis and unhealthy blood pressure levels.
Palpitations
People experience palpitations differently, but the common denominator is that their normally regular heartbeat isn't quite so regular for short periods. Your heart may seem to pound harder or faster than usual, or it may seem to skip a few beats. Even more disconcerting, that fluttery or pounding rhythm sometimes makes itself known not just in your chest, but also at other pulse points, such as your neck or throat. If palpitations begin to occur frequently, or come with dizziness, chest pains, difficulty breathing or fainting, seek medical attention to rule out a serious heart problem.
Connection
Siberian ginseng causes heart palpitations in some people, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This may be due to the plant's stimulating effects, which can affect healthy people as well as those with heart or blood pressure issues. UMMC warns that hypertensive patients taking Siberian ginseng may experience palpitations or other side effects, such as increased blood pressure, vomiting and headache. Additionally, Siberian ginseng may amplify the effects of the prescription heart medication Dioxin, causing abnormally strong heartbeats.
Other Causes
If discontinuing Siberian ginseng doesn't halt the palpitations, another factor may be causing the occasional heart irregularity. MayoClinic.com notes that stress provokes palpitations in some people, as do cigarettes, coffee and other caffeinated drinks. Doctors have linked asthma inhalers and cough medications containing pseudoephedrine to palpitations. Your palpitations may stem from overly intense workouts or from hormone fluctuations. If your Siberian ginseng supplement comes in a blended herb capsule or energy drink, consider taking the ginseng in a single-herb format. Caffeine or other stimulating herbs may be causing your palpitations, rather than the Siberian ginseng itself. Your practitioner can help you pinpoint the exact cause of the palpitations.
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