Siberian Ginseng / Eleuthero Root (Eleutherococcus Senticosus)
Common names: devil's bush, eleuthero, ciwujia, Devil's shrub, shigoka, touch-me-not, wild pepper, or kan jang.
An adaptogen, great for improving athletic performance by boosting endurance and for treating the symptoms of common cold/flu.
Eleutherosides are the main components of eleuthero that have potential health benefits. Siberian ginseng also contains complex polysaccharides, which are the main reason for its ability to boost the immune system.
Siberian eleuthero is native to the southeastern part of Russia, northern China, Korea and Japan. Eleuthero root and rhizomes (underground stem) are the part of the plant that people use medicinally.
Potential Benefits
- Natural Adaptogen
Adaptogens are plants that are able to help balance, restore and protect the body
by helping it to handle stress, whether it’s physical, chemical, or biological. This is very significant since chronic stress is known to contribute to so many health concerns, including the common cold, weight gain, heart disease, sleep problems, depression, ulcers, digestive issues, and impaired healing ability along with back/neck/shoulder pain.
- Physical Stamina and Mental Alertness
Eleuthero demonstrates an ability to improve physical stamina and mental sharpness similar to caffeine but without an impending crash. Studies to date have had mixed results but some point towards the ability of Eleutherococcus senticosus to boost cardiorespiratory fitness, fat metabolism, and overall endurance performance.
- Colds and Flu
Eleuthero root benefits also include its proven ability to help fight viruses that cause the common cold as well as the flu. It’s often used as a natural cold and flu remedy.
- Herpes
Researchers have found that the Siberian ginseng decreases the frequency, severity, and duration of herpes outbreaks.
- Learning and Memory
The active components of Siberian ginseng have previously been shown to improve memory, boost human cognition and relieve fatigue.
- Anti-Cancer Potential
In countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Russia, people commonly used Siberian ginseng for its anti-fatigue, anti-inflammation, anti-stress, anti-ulcer, and cardio-boosting qualities. Now recent research is pointing toward the ability of this impressive plant to fight cancer.
Recommended Dosage
◉ 1-3 teaspoons of loose tea (or 3g up to 3 times) daily. If more than one herbal mixture is consumed at the same period of time, reduce the amount of tea accordingly.
◉ When herbs are used for an extended period of time, it is suggested to consume a herbal remedy with a ratio of 3 to 1. For example:
- If you choose to take it for 3 weeks, have a one-week pause.
- If it is taken for a 30-day period, have a 10-day pause.
That does not apply to herbs and fruits that have a laxative effect.
Notes
◉ Should be stored in airtight glass containers -in a cool, dark, and dry place- to preserve the flavor, texture, and properties.
◉ Before adding a new herbal remedy or supplement to your daily routine, you should consult with a medical doctor or holistic health practitioner.
Herbal Tea Brewing Instructions
- Heat the water to just the point when it starts to boil.
- Add 1 teaspoon of loose tea, to a tea infuser or tea bag, for every 180ml - 240ml of water.
- Pour the heated water (right off the boil) over the tea, cover your cup, and steep for 7-10 minutes or longer.
- Add honey or stevia for sweetness, if desired.
Follow these additional steps to make the perfect cup of tea!