FWD 2 Commission E: Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng) root

  The Commission E Monographs

Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng) root


Eleutherococci radix
Eleutherococcus-senticosus-Wurzel
Published January 17, 1991

Name of Drug

Eleutherococci radix , eleuthero, Siberian ginseng root.  

Composition of Drug

Eleuthero consists of the dried roots and/or rhizome of Eleutherococcus senticosus Ruprecht et Maximowicz [syn.   Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr.et maxim ex maxim Harms)] [Fam.  Araliaceae], as well as their preparations in effective dosage.  

The root contains lignans and coumarin derivatives.  

Uses

As tonic for invigoration and fortification in times of fatigue and debility or declining capacity for work and concentration, also during convalescence.  

Contraindications

High blood pressure.*

Side Effects

None known.  

Interactions with Other Drugs

None known.  

Dosage

Unless otherwise prescribed:

Daily dosage:

  • 2 - 3 g of root;
  • equivalent preparations.  

Mode of Administration

Powdered or cut root for teas, as well as aqueous-alcoholic extracts for internal use.  

Duration of Administration

Generally up to 3 months.  

A repeated course is feasible.  

Actions

In various stress models, e.g., immobilization test and coldness test, the endurance of rodents was enhanced.  

With healthy volunteers, the lymphocyte count, especially that of T-lymphocytes, increased following intake of fluidextracts.  

*[Ed.  note:For a brief discussion on the potential hypertensive activity of Eleuthero, see theIntroduction]