Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), Siberian Ginseng, Ci-wu-jia, Wu Jia Shen Jing

Main Facts about Eleuthero

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus)or Siberian Ginseng is one of the primary tonic herbs and one of the most widely used herbs in the world. Known in China as wu-jia-pi, eleuthero has been used in Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. It is a woodland shrub native to southeastern Siberia and the Korean peninsula. A shrub that grows as high as nine feet, Eleuthero reaches maturity in seven or more years. The plant yields a woody root that is used to make medicine.

Using Eleuthero

Eleuthero, being an "adaptogen", is widely used as a general tonic to help people who are fatigued or chronically stressed. Since it enhances immunity and helps the body deal with stress it is frequently included in nutritional support programs for people with autoimmune disorders. Eleuthero boosts concentration and focus without the letdown than comes from stimulants like caffeine. Extensive studies conducted in China and Russia, show that consumption of the root and its preparations enhances immunity, increases strength, stimulates sexual function, improves sleep, helps the body during times of oxygen deprivation, enhances cardiovascular function, improves overall athletic performance, and sharpens mental alertness.

Eleuthero is a remedy for: Weight loss

Caution!

Don’t confuse Siberian ginseng with other types of ginseng. Siberian ginseng is not the same herb as American or Panax ginseng. Rare side effects have been reported including insomnia, drowsiness, tachycardia, headache, nervousness, and hypoglycemia. Men with prostate disorders should not use Eleuthero Root. Be cautious if you have high blood pressure. This herb interacts with many prescription drugs. Don't use if pregnant. Many commercial ginseng products are adulterated, buyer beware!

Cooking with Eleuthero

Generally, it is the dried root and bark that are used, however some leaves of various eleuthero species have been used in herbal teas as well.

How to grow Eleuthero

Siberian ginseng plants are often propagated from seed, although they can be slow to germinate and require six months of warm stratification followed by three months of cold. Seedlings can be planted 6 inches apart in late spring or early summer in almost any soil, including sand, loam, clay, acid, alkaline and poor soils. Siberian ginseng will grow in part shade to full sun and needs just enough water to keep soil moist. A balanced granular fertilizer, applied approximately 1/2 pound per shrub in early spring, will enhance growth and flowering.

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