Eleuthero
Also called: Siberian ginseng, Eleutherococcus senticosus
An adaptogenic root used for stamina, stress, and mild fatigue. Despite its common name, it is not true ginseng, and studies are mixed.
Commonly used for
- Stress-related fatigue
- Stamina and endurance
- Immune support during stress
Found naturally in
- Eleuthero root, a shrub from northeast Asia and Siberia, traditionally used as a tea or tincture
Label red flags
- Sold as 'ginseng' without the species, since it is a different plant from Panax ginseng
- Species not listed
Check with a provider
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: not well studied
- High blood pressure
- Taking digoxin. It can interfere with digoxin blood tests.
- Taking diabetes medicine, blood thinners, or sedatives
- Autoimmune conditions or immune-suppressing medicines. It may stimulate the immune system, so ask your provider first.
Supplements that contain it
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Adrenal glands
These small glands on top of your kidneys make cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline, which manage energy, blood pressure, and your stress response.
Blood & immune system
Blood carries oxygen and nutrients, and white blood cells defend you from infection. In autoimmune disease, that defense system targets your own tissues.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.