Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Mental
- 2 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also called Eleuthero, is a deciduous, hardy shrub reaching up to about 10 ft (3 m). It features 3-7 toothed leaflets per stem and spiny branches. Regarded as an adaptogen, Siberian ginseng has been used traditionally as an adaptogen, performance enhancer and immunostimulant; MSK says studies in humans are quite limited.
Traditional uses & properties
Adaptogen (traditional use): Traditionally used as an adaptogen; MSK says additional studies are needed to assess its usefulness and safety. Performance (traditional use): Traditionally used as a performance enhancer; MSK says studies in humans are quite limited.
Safety & precautions
Duration: Do not take it long term without professional advice. Caffeine: Avoid combining with caffeinated products, as overstimulation may occur. Possible Side Effects: Exceeding the recommended dose can lead to irritability or insomnia. Medicines & Breastfeeding: MSK says it can increase the risk of side effects from digoxin, and advises avoiding it while breastfeeding.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to eastern Russia, China, Korea, and Japan, Siberian ginseng can be grown from seed - though germination is difficult. The root is harvested in autumn and then dried. Historically used in Russia for workers, athletes, and even astronauts to cope with stress.
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) as follows: Adaptogen (traditional use): Traditionally used as an adaptogen; MSK says additional studies are needed to assess its usefulness and safety. Performance (traditional use): Traditionally used as a performance enhancer; MSK says studies in humans are quite limited.
What safety cautions apply to Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)?
Duration: Do not take it long term without professional advice. Caffeine: Avoid combining with caffeinated products, as overstimulation may occur. Possible Side Effects: Exceeding the recommended dose can lead to irritability or insomnia. Medicines & Breastfeeding: MSK says it can increase the risk of side effects from digoxin, and advises avoiding it while breastfeeding.
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