What Is Siberian Ginseng & Why Do You Need It In Your Diet?

An Overview of Siberian Ginseng

The likelihood that you are reading this text or have even heard the term "adaptogen" in the past is due to the discovery of Siberian Ginseng.

The word "adaptogen" was first used to describe the Siberian Ginseng plant (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as Eleuthero root in the West, which was the first great tonic herb to be discovered, investigated and used in the Western world.

Nikolai Lazarev coined the term "adaptogen" in 1948 during his pursuit to discover the perfect, all-natural performance-enhancing substance that would rival Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng), arguably the first adaptogen.

What Lazarev and his team of Russian scientists discovered in the 1940s was the Siberian Ginseng plant (Eleutherococcus senticosus).

Adaptogens refer to a class of herbs that have generalized anti-stress actions on the body, affecting several systems at once to reestablish equilibrium and homeostasis in the body.

In ancient medicine traditions like Traditional Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Ayurvedic, Native American, and folk medicines, superior herbs were used to support balance and healing within their communities and populations. The earliest accounts of the use of herbs for medical purposes date back to 2000–3000 BC.

Given that the Siberian Ginseng plant is native to the USSR and satisfied Nikolai Lazarev's criterium for an adaptogen, the use of Siberian Ginseng root played a major role in the discovery, scientific study, and use of traditional herbs in Western medicine as well as their status in pharmacology.

Since the 1940s, investigations on Siberian Ginseng benefits have demonstrated that it helps boost performance by enhancing endurance, recuperation, oxygenation, and stamina in the user.

In the modern world, the therapeutic benefits of Siberian Ginseng powder extracts, or Eleuthero root have grown to include its capacity to enhance immune function, blood sugar control, cardiovascular health, and brain health. Additionally, Siberian Ginseng for women and Siberian Ginseng for men are equally beneficial for health.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the science and benefit of Siberian Ginseng root, the recommended Siberian Ginseng dosage and why you need to include Siberian Ginseng supplements in your daily diet.

What is Siberian Ginseng?

One of the most popular medicinal herbs in the world is Ginseng. When most people think of Ginseng, most are typically referring to Asian Ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, for its energizing and immune-boosting properties.

The most popular types of Ginseng are Panax, American, and Siberian. These Ginseng belong to the same botanical family–Araliaceae, however, the Siberian ginseng plant (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a different species entirely.

All three Ginseng have anti-fatigue, immune-system-supporting, and energizing properties that are common to them.

The root of the Siberian Ginseng plant (Latin name: Eleutherococcus senticosus), which gives it its name, grows in Siberia, northern China, Korea, and northern Japan. Siberian Ginseng root, also known as Eleuthero naturally tastes bitter, slightly sweet, and warm.

In Russian folk medicine, Siberian Ginseng root was used for immune system support during the bitterly cold winters as well as for performance, recovery, and its anti-fatigue effects.

Most of the benefits of Siberian Ginseng are concentrated in the root of Eleutherococcus senticosus.

It is believed that eleutherosides, one of the main active chemicals in Siberian Ginseng root, can increase both physical and mental performance by aiding the body's adaptation to stress. According to studies, taking Siberian Ginseng powder regularly can improve cognitive performance, strengthen the immune system, and raise resistance to tiredness.

Siberian Ginseng root has a long history of usage in Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) where it was known as "ci wu jia". Siberian Ginseng roots were combined with other herbs as a wine and tonic for weariness, arthritis, and low back pain, despite being associated with Russian medicine and the development of adaptogens in western medicine (4).

Additionally, the use of Siberian Ginseng in contemporary Chinese medicine benefits the Qi (or Chi), spleen, and kidneys, boosting nutritional absorption and reversing weakness, weariness, bloating, and appetite loss (4).

In Western medicine, the use of Siberian Ginseng benefits helps support patients with adrenal fatigue and to help lower LDL cholesterol, hypertension, and stress. It also helps to increase cellular energy and mitochondrial function (4).

Due to its reputation for boosting stamina and physical performance, the benefits of Siberian Ginseng root are also a well-liked supplement among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. According to some research, Siberian Ginseng benefits may boost cardiovascular health, increase oxygen uptake, and lessen muscle damage after exercise.

Additionally, Siberian Ginseng supplements may have the potential in reducing blood sugar levels and lowering the chance of developing some cancers.

Just like our range of organic medicinal mushrooms and other adaptogens, Siberian Ginseng for women and Siberian Ginseng for men are safe to consume for extended periods of time and have potential benefits for both young and old people. The cardiovascular, immunological, and neurological systems in particular are positively impacted by the eleutherosides found in Siberian Ginseng root.

Benefits of Siberian Ginseng

The benefits of Siberian Ginseng supplements are well documented.

With over 1000 studies exploring its unique capacity to support physical performance, stamina, energy, and recovery as well as enhance cognitive function, mental endurance, respiration, and the immune system, Siberian Ginseng root is a robust and multifaceted herb to use (6).

Siberian Ginseng supplements have the ability to increase physical performance and endurance.

In a 2010 double-blind randomized control trial, nine male collegiate athletes were given a Siberian Ginseng powder extract for 8 weeks, or a placebo and their endurance, maximum heart rate, and maximum oxygen consumption were measured.

After the 8 weeks, the weeks in which the Siberian Ginseng powder extract was taken showed an elevated VO2 max, endurance time, and heart rate as well as a decrease in biochemical indicators of weariness (5, 6).

The use of Siberian Ginseng supplements in a 2004 randomised control experiment also showed the anti-fatigue benefits of Siberian Ginseng (12).

Additional research has demonstrated its capacity to improve memory and cognition in healthy people as well as its potential to reduce stress (10).

An active ingredient in the Siberian Ginseng plant called eleutheroside B protects neurons from atrophy and cell death and promotes the regeneration of synapses in the brain (7, 9, 11).

Studies on both animals and people have shown the effectiveness of Siberian Ginseng root in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Knowing that Siberian Ginseng benefits and strengthens my immunity and nervous system, I personally take a Siberian Ginseng supplement when I'm experiencing more frequent times of stress or when I'm feeling exhausted.

Improves Brain Health

Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of Siberian ginseng to enhance and support brain function (18).

Because there are so many variables that might affect human memory and cognition, such as hydration, sleep, and stress, testing memory and cognition can be challenging in a research setting.

Siberian Ginseng benefits have demonstrated to have neuroprotective properties, shielding the brain from oxidative stress and rapid aging (9).

The blood-brain barrier, a tightly controlled membrane that encircles the brain, is capable of being crossed by saponins found in Siberian Ginseng root, according to one specific review. Saponins from the Siberian Ginseng plant have been shown to alter the AGE-RAGE pathway, resulting in decreased inflammatory cytokine production and neuronal injury (9).

Siberian Ginseng benefits have anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties that promote and support neural growth, prevent neurons from dying and regulate neurotransmitters to support a healthy, functional brain that can help fend against neurological illnesses and brain aging (11).

Because the active ingredients Ciwujianoside C3 (CJS C3), eleutheroside M, and Ciwujianoside B are able to enter the brain and exercise their advantageous effects, Siberian Ginseng powder extract has been shown to "substantially boost object recognition and memory" in animal experiments (12).

I also like to consider how stress, exhaustion, and fatigue will unavoidably reduce our mental, emotional, cognitive, and memory capacities. Therefore, the use of Siberian Ginseng supplements may support the health of our nervous system while also benefiting from its anti-fatigue properties.

Lowers the Risk of Heart Disease and Balances Blood Sugar

The leading cause of death worldwide is the heart and cardiovascular disease. Heart disease is accelerated by a number of factors, including food, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol.

It has been demonstrated that Siberian Ginseng supplements act as an antioxidant and changes metabolic process to reduce the risk of heart disease. Siberian Ginseng powder extracts boost lipase and lipolysis in adipose tissue, according to in vivo tests, and lowered the total triacylglycerol content of the tissue (fat).

This shows that Siberian Ginseng benefits not only reduce free-floating triglycerides, which lead to the formation of plaque and arterial obstruction, but also actively uses lipids as energy in adipose tissue, enhancing mitochondrial activity, cellular energy, and metabolism (13).

According to animal studies, Siberian Ginseng benefits help relax the arteries, which explains how it improves performance and speeds up recovery. Since the pathogenesis of heart disease includes the hardening and constriction of the arteries, the use of Siberian Ginseng supplements helps relax the arteries and provides a positive effect on lowering the risk of heart disease (14).

In animal research, the use of Siberian Ginseng benefits have also been proven to have anti-diabetic effects and to be helpful in modifying the insulin pathway when it comes to blood sugar regulation.

The polysaccharides and syringin compounds found in the Siberian Ginseng plant have been shown to activate beta-endorphins, boost blood glucose absorption, lower plasma glucose levels, and lessen the oxidative and inflammatory consequences that high blood sugar causes (15, 16).

Reduces Stress And Anxiety

One of the primary functions and benefits of all adaptogenic herbs, including Siberian Ginseng benefits, is they help reduce stress and anxiety.

As one of the best adaptogenic herbs, Siberian Ginseng powder acts to control the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, neurological system, and stress response. It also supports the creation of cellular energy by stimulating the mitochondria.

Siberian Ginseng supplements have traditionally been used to alleviate stress and anxiety, and boost resilience and adaptation, allowing the user to endure greater stress without suffering the usual psychological and physiological ramifications (18).

Siberian Ginseng benefits help protect and support the brain from exhaustion and stress, which frequently increase or trigger anxiety and depression, by modulating the HPA axis–the body’s stress regulating system.

Further, we know that depression is linked to higher levels of oxidative stress and inflammation in the body and brain; the use of Siberian ginseng benefits have been shown to be protective against both of these conditions because it contains neuroprotective compounds, which contribute to a comprehensive strategy for easing stress and anxiety.

Improves Mental Health

We've already covered how the benefits of Siberian Ginseng promote anti-fatigue, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory qualities might aid with mental wellness.

When the body is under a lot of stress, feeling run down, and exhausted, our mental health also takes a hit, and we are more likely to experience feelings of despair, worry, and ruminating thoughts. This is due to the fact that we often get emotionally, psychologically, and mentally exhausted while we are physically exhausted.

By serving as an adaptogen and boosting our resilience and capacity to deal with stressors that can leave us feeling down and worn out, the benefits of Siberian Ginseng supplements improve mental health.

Our diet and way of life have a significant impact on our mental health, so in addition to consuming fewer processed foods, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks, quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, eating more whole foods, and avoiding stressful situations and environments, the use of Siberian Ginseng powder extracts will help us become more mentally resilient and improve our mental health.

Elevates Physical Performance

The popular adaptogenic plant Siberian Ginseng, also known by the scientific name Eleutherococcus senticosus, has been used for centuries to improve physical performance. 

For its potential advantages, which include enhancing endurance, enhancing energy levels, and reducing muscle damage brought on by exercise-induced oxidative stress, this adaptogenic herb is frequently used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts. According to research, Siberian Ginseng may also help in improving workout performance and muscle strength.

Increasing endurance is one of the primary ways Siberian Ginseng can enhance physical performance. According to studies, the herb can increase the body's ability to use oxygen while exercising and decrease the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles, both of which can improve performance and increase endurance. 

Siberian Ginseng has also been discovered to possess antioxidant qualities, which may lessen the harm exercise-induced oxidative stress does to muscles. This may result in quicker post-exercise recovery and better exercise performance.

Siberian Ginseng may be beneficial for boosting muscular strength as well. This is supposed to be accomplished by increasing the muscles' ability to absorb nutrients and oxygen while exercising, which can increase muscle strength and endurance.

Also, it has been discovered that the plant increases ATP generation, the body's main source of energy. This may result in more effective activity and less weariness.

Siberian Ginseng has been shown to enhance physical performance in a variety of ways as one of the best natural supplements for athletic performance.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts frequently take it to increase endurance, boost energy, and lessen muscle damage brought on by exercise-induced oxidative stress. Eleutherococcus senticosus may also help with improving exercise performance and muscle strength. 

Consider including Siberian Ginseng in your exercise regimen if you're interested in utilizing adaptogens for sports performance or natural supplements for exercise performance.

Reduces the Risk of Colds and Flu

Traditional Chinese and Russian medicine have utilized the Siberian ginseng plant for thousands of years to treat and prevent colds and flu (4).

The benefits of Siberian Ginseng supplements include immune system modulation and the presence of antiviral substances that have been demonstrated to prevent the replication of RNA viruses like human rhinovirus (HRV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza A. (19).

Being a well-known adaptogen, Siberian Ginseng benefits include lowering the inflammatory cascade that results from viral infections and promoting recovery thanks to its capacity to enhance mitochondrial activity and cellular energy generation.

The antioxidant benefits of Siberian Ginseng root can help maintain quality of life while battling viral infections and protect cells from stress-related damage (20).

Siberian Ginseng For Women’s Health

The benefits of Siberian Ginseng for women's health include an increase in vitality, mental clarity, mood, and support for blood glucose levels, which can be linked to PCOS, gestational diabetes, and diabetes.

The benefits of Siberian Ginseng for women has more recently been examined in mice for its beneficial benefits on postmenopausal osteoporosis, which develops as estrogen levels decline with aging.

This was investigated in a 2020 study, which found that Siberian Ginseng benefits may prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis by regulating a number of endogenous metabolites involved in the disease's course (21).

We also know that stress is the underlying factor in the development of all diseases and their symptoms; thus, by reducing and buffering the stress response, Siberian Ginseng for women is protective since the best remedy is prevention.

Siberian Ginseng For Men’s Health

Siberian Ginseng for men's health, does it really work?

Yes, the benefits of Siberian Ginseng for men’s health are broad and profound.

Siberian Ginseng for men's health is a super-effective herb because of its capacity to enhance vasodilation, respiration, artery health, physical performance, and recovery.

We've discussed how Siberian Ginseng benefits can defend against heart disease and reduce the chance of acquiring cardiovascular disease. Coronary heart disease is the top cause of death for men worldwide.

According to studies, Siberian Ginseng for men may also help increase testosterone levels, and enhance physical and mental health (22).

Side-Effects of Siberian Ginseng

The use of Siberian Ginseng benefits as an adaptogen to improve physical and mental performance, lessen stress, and strengthen the immune system are popular among individuals looking to improve their health and performance.

Generally, Siberian Ginseng supplements are safe to consume in most individuals. Always follow the recommended Siberian Ginseng dosage on the supplement packaging.

Although the side effects of Siberian Ginseng supplements are uncommon, some rare instances of negative effects have been reported in a few individuals that include insomnia, anxiety, and elevated blood pressure. Headaches, dry mouth, and skin rashes are some other potential adverse effects.

It is essential to seek the guidance of a healthcare professional before the use of Siberian Ginseng supplements especially if you are taking any medications. It's possible that Siberian Ginseng supplements may interact with medications including blood thinners and antidepressants.

As we discussed, Siberian Ginseng for women and Siberian Ginseng for men are equally beneficial for both sexes. 

However, if you’re pregnant or nursing, please consult with your doctor before including Siberian Ginseng supplements in your diet. In general, Siberian Ginseng for women that are pregnant should be avoided.

At Teelixir, the Siberian Ginseng dosage we recommend is 1000 - 1600 mg per day for a first time user of Siberian Ginseng powder extract. You can increase your Siberian Ginseng dosage after your body adjusts to the starting dose.

Try our high quality wildcrafted Siberian Ginseng powder extract here.

In Conclusion

The Siberian Ginseng plant (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a powerful adaptogen that has been utilized for millennia to improve physical and mental performance, lessen stress, and strengthen the immune system.

The benefits of Siberian Ginseng root can help increase energy levels, lessen weariness, and enhance cognitive function, according to studies. Additionally, it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities that may aid in illness prevention.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Russian folk medicine have traditionally used Siberian Ginseng for centuries.

Siberian Ginseng benefits help to nourish the blood, strengthen the spleen and kidneys, and increase general vitality and is referred to in TCM as "ci wu jia".

It is referred to as an "adaptogen" in Russia and is used to enhance both physical and mental performance, lessen stress, and strengthen the immune system.

Siberian Ginseng supplements are generally regarded as safe, but you should consult a doctor before using it, especially if you are taking any drugs, pregnant, or nursing. It's vital to monitor your symptoms and modify your Siberian Ginseng dosage as necessary because some people may experience mild side effects such as insomnia, anxiety, and high blood pressure.

In general, Siberian Ginseng for women and Siberian Ginseng for men are equally beneficial. 

Siberian Ginseng benefits are excellent for reducing fatigue and supporting people with stressful lives or for those who simply want to improve their fitness and sports performance.

Siberian Ginseng root is a well-rounded adaptogenic herb that boosts a person's resistance and adaptability. It also protects against cardiovascular disease and mental tiredness.

In general, most recommended Siberian Ginseng dosages are a safe and effective way to enhance general health and wellbeing. Siberian Ginseng benefits can be used as a daily supplement or as a quick fix when stressed out. Always use Siberian Ginseng supplements with caution and only after consulting a healthcare professional.

References

1. Siberian Ginseng Benefits and Why You Need it in Your Daily Diet - https://kulture.store/blogs/health-wellbeing/siberian-ginseng-and-why-you-need-it-in-your-daily-diet
2. Health Benefit of Siberian Ginseng - https://www.xtend-life.com/blogs/supplement-ingredients/eleuthero
3. What Is Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero) - https://swolverine.com/en-in/blogs/blog/siberian-ginseng-eleuthero
4. Adaptogens & Mushroom Supplements: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief by David Winston & Steven Maimes - https://www.amazon.com/Adaptogens-Strength-Stamina-Stress-Relief/dp/1594771588
5. The effect of eight weeks of supplementation with Eleutherococcus senticosus on endurance capacity and metabolism in human - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21793317/
6. Findings of Russian literature on the clinical application of Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.): A narrative review - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34087398/
7. Inhibitory Effects of Eleutherococcus senticosus Extracts on Amyloid β(25-35)–Induced Neuritic Atrophy and Synaptic Loss - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1347861319314203
8. Memory Enhancement by Oral Administration of Extract of Eleutherococcus senticosus Leaves and Active Compounds Transferred in the Brain - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6567285/
9. Memory enhancement effect of saponins from Eleutherococcus senticosus leaves and blood-brain barrier-permeated saponins profiling using a pseudo targeted monitoring strategy - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35262106/
10. Combined Treatment with Two Water Extracts of Eleutherococcus senticosus Leaf and Rhizome of Drynaria fortunei Enhances Cognitive Function: A Placebo-Controlled, Randomized, Double-Blind Study in Healthy Adults - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7070741/
11. Pharmacological effects of Eleutherococcus senticosus on the neurological disorders - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35844057/
12. Randomized controlled trial of Siberian Ginseng supplement for chronic fatigue - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14971626/
13. The effect of eleutherococcus senticosus Siberian Ginseng plant on metabolism-associated protein expression in 3T3-L1 and C2C12 cells - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7669464/
14. Vascular effects of Siberian ginseng root (Eleutherococcus senticosus): endothelium-dependent NO- and EDHF-mediated relaxation depending on vessel size - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15095033/
15. Increase of beta-endorphin secretion by syringin, an active principle of Eleutherococcus senticosus, to produce antihyperglycemic action in type 1-like diabetic rats - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18075969/
16. Anti-diabetic activities of Acanthopanax senticosus polysaccharide (ASP) in combination with metformin - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22326821/
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18. Neuroprotective features of phytoadaptogens - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18488457/
19. Antiviral activity of an extract derived from roots of Eleutherococcus senticosus - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11397509/
20. The Role of Adaptogens in Prophylaxis and Treatment of Viral Respiratory Infections - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32911682/
21. Unveiling the Pharmacological Mechanisms of Eleutheroside E Against Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Through UPLC-Q/TOF-MS-Based Metabolomics - https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.01316/full

Written by Eliza Hedley

Eliza Hedley is an Australian-born health, mindset and abundance enthusiast obsessed with helping millennial's experience living at a higher level.

Eliza's relaxed new-age approach and understanding of nutrition and wellness see her empowering and coaching individuals to understand that their health is the ultimate asset. Upon experiencing first-hand the power and place of tonic herbalism and medicinal mushroom supplements in everyday life, Eliza’s become an adaptogen fangirl and feels their utilisation in today’s world is essential for abundance and wellbeing.

Website: https://theholisticsister.com
Instagram: @theholisticsister_