Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Acanthopanax Senticosus) was once known as Siberian Ginseng or the less common name, Ciwujia. It is now illegal in the US to market this herb with the previously accompanying name “Ginseng”.
In 2002, a conference change stated that the name “Ginseng” was reserved for the gender PanaxAlthough both to the Araliaceae family. In contrast to the reputation associated with real ginseng, Eleuthero is not considered a physically stimulant or sexual amplifier.
A clinical study of 2005, however, showed that it increased the number of sperm in combination with another herb, so future research can reveal a similar association. The roots of Eleuthero are the most used part, although the leaves have a mild activity. This herb is well studied in Russia, where it becomes wild, although it is also indigenous in East Asia and has been used for centuries in Chinese, Japanese and Korean folk medicine traditions to promote overall health and to increase the resilience.
Eleuthero is one of the better known and commonly used adaptogens (plants that increase stress resistance and improve overall health) and can be used for longer periods in most adults. It is often recommended for those who are weak, recover from disease or have no energy or endurance. Athletes use it to improve endurance and recovery time. It also supports a healthy immune response.
Eleuthero is also considered a cardiotonic and helps in supporting healthy cholesterol levels and reducing allergic reactions. A 2010 study suggests that Eleuthero can also encourage a healthy bone density; It contains the flavonoid quercetinedemonstrated to stimulate osteoblasts (bone building cells) and inhibit the formation of osteoclasts (cells that break down bone tissue).
Animal and vitro research suggests that it supports healthy brain function and cognition, although clinical studies are called to thoroughly substantiate this claim. Eleuthero has little or no known toxicity, but is not recommended for people with severe cases of high blood pressure or heart problems.
Eleutherosides are considered the most “active” components and can be standardized in some products, but many holistic herbalists prefer to use a complete herb extract instead of one that insulates and increases some connections. This useful plant is also combined in formulations with numerous other herbs as a synergistic agent to tackle a wider range of ailments.
The formulas of Wishgarden Herbs that contain Eleuthero:
Deep stress adrenal rescue with Ashwagandha, Genius Sap renewal and Focus and Cycle Vitality 2 Luteal Phase Progesteronic Support
Writer Mindy Green is one of the founders and professional member of the American Herbalists Guild and member of the advisory board of the American Botanical Council, publisher of Herbal Gram Magazine. Mrs. Green served at the Faculty of the Rocky Mountain Center for Botanical Studies (1995-2003). The California School of Herbal Studies is one of Mindy’s business companies as co-owner and member of the Faculty (1985-1995). She is a nationally certified registered aromatherapist and has served in the education committees of the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapists and the Aromatherapy Registration Council. She now runs her own consultancy, Green Scentations, LLC.
A productive writer and teacher, Mrs. Green, has written more than 60 published articles about herbs, aromatherapy, skin care, holistic health and integrative care. She is a co-author of Aromatherapy, a complete guide to healing art; Author of Calendula and natural perfumes, and has contributed to countless books about herbs and healing. As a Botanical therapy expert, she has been interviewed more than 400 times by leading magazines and newspapers.
Only for educational purposes. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent a disease or to sell a product.
Continue reading