Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Siberian Ginseng Root Extract

Also known as: Eleutherococcus senticosus, Siberian Ginseng, Ciwujia, Acanthopanax senticosus

Overview

Eleutherococcus senticosus, commonly known as Siberian Ginseng, is a plant native to Northeastern Asia. It is an adaptogen, which means it is believed to help the body adapt to stress. Siberian Ginseng is often confused with true ginsengs (*Panax* species) but belongs to a different genus. The active components in Siberian Ginseng are eleutherosides, which are distinct from the ginsenosides found in *Panax* ginsengs. It is used to enhance physical and mental performance, improve immune function, and reduce fatigue. Research on Siberian Ginseng is less extensive compared to *Panax* ginsengs, but there are several systematic reviews and RCTs available. The evidence is generally of moderate quality, with some limitations due to small sample sizes and varying study methodologies. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts, typically derived from the root of the plant.

Benefits

Siberian Ginseng has shown potential benefits, primarily in fatigue reduction and immunomodulation. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that Siberian Ginseng herbal formulas may reduce fatigue severity, particularly in patients with chronic fatigue, although the effect size was small (SMD: −0.39, 95% CI: −0.66 to −0.13, p = 0.004). Some studies suggest it may have immunomodulatory effects, potentially increasing phagocytosis and modulating innate immunity, but the evidence is not strong. Limited evidence supports significant improvements in cognitive function or physical performance. Patients with chronic fatigue may benefit most from Siberian Ginseng, as studies have shown a significant reduction in fatigue severity in this population. The time course of benefits is not well-defined, but improvements in fatigue have been observed over several weeks to months in clinical trials.

How it works

Siberian Ginseng is believed to act through various biological pathways, including immunomodulation and antioxidant effects. It interacts with the immune system by modulating innate immunity and may also affect the central nervous system by reducing fatigue and improving mental performance. The eleutherosides in Siberian Ginseng are thought to be the primary active compounds, but the exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated. The absorption and bioavailability of eleutherosides are not well-studied, but they are generally considered to be bioavailable when consumed as part of the whole plant extract.

Side effects

Siberian Ginseng is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses. There is limited data on common side effects, but it is often well-tolerated. No specific uncommon or rare side effects are widely reported. There is a potential for interaction with other medications, particularly those affecting the immune system or blood pressure, but this is not well-studied. It should be used with caution in patients with autoimmune diseases or those taking immunosuppressive medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use it with caution due to the lack of specific studies in these populations. Due to its potential immunomodulatory effects, individuals with autoimmune conditions should consult their healthcare provider before use.

Dosage

Typical doses of Siberian Ginseng range from 400 mg to 1200 mg per day of the standardized extract. Optimal dosages are not clearly defined, but doses of 400-800 mg per day are commonly used. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 1200 mg per day are not typically recommended due to the lack of evidence. There are no specific timing considerations, but it is often taken in the morning to enhance daytime performance. The extract is often standardized to contain a specific percentage of eleutherosides. The absorption of eleutherosides may be enhanced when taken with food, but this is not well-studied.

FAQs

Is Siberian Ginseng safe?

It is generally safe, but caution should be exercised in patients with autoimmune diseases or those taking immunosuppressive medications. Consult a healthcare provider before use if you have any underlying health conditions.

When should I take Siberian Ginseng?

It can be taken at any time, but morning administration is common to enhance daytime performance. Follow the recommended dosage guidelines on the product label or as advised by a healthcare professional.

What results can I expect from taking Siberian Ginseng?

Users may expect a reduction in fatigue, particularly in chronic fatigue conditions, but the effect size is small. Individual results may vary, and it is not a substitute for medical treatment.

Is Siberian Ginseng the same as other types of ginseng?

It is often confused with *Panax* ginsengs, but it has distinct active compounds (eleutherosides vs. ginsenosides) and effects. They belong to different plant genera.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10541774/ – This study is a systematic review of randomized clinical trials that included some trials with *Eleutherococcus senticosus*. The review found that the evidence for the efficacy of Siberian Ginseng is not compelling for most indications due to poor study quality, small sample sizes, and varying doses.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK67758/ – This is a general reference book entry that provides information on Siberian Ginseng. It covers various aspects of the herb, including its traditional uses and potential health benefits, but does not provide specific clinical trial data.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92776/ – This is another general reference book entry that provides information on Siberian Ginseng. It discusses the herb's properties and uses, but lacks specific clinical trial data and quantitative analysis.
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/jicm.2022.0532 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 RCTs found that Siberian Ginseng herbal formulas reduced fatigue severity, especially in patients with chronic fatigue, with a small effect size. The review highlights the potential of Siberian Ginseng in managing fatigue but acknowledges the need for further research with larger sample sizes and standardized methodologies.
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD012654.pub2/full – This Cochrane review assesses the efficacy of ginseng for treating fatigue. While the review primarily focuses on *Panax* ginseng, it provides context for understanding the broader category of adaptogens and their potential effects on fatigue, noting the limitations in current evidence.