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Most adaptogens come from the roots of the plant and most hail from countries such as Russia, Korea and China carrying exotic sounding names such as Schisandra berry, Astragalus root and Eleuthero root or as it is more commonly known Siberian Ginseng. A number of adaptogenic herbs have been incorporated into western herbalism and Siberian ginseng has to an extent become a mainstream herbal remedy used in some conventional medicinal products.
Siberian ginseng has been used in China for thousands of years as a health restorative, to reduce stress and to improve well-being, acting broadly to restore vitality, energy and resistance. Importantly ginseng helps the the body to deal with both acute and chronic stress, reducing anxiety and ameliorating the physical effects of chronic stress in the body. Ginseng also helps to improve capacity for mental and physical exertion and is extremely effective when ‘burn out’ or exhaustion is a factor. The herb is also used to treat respiratory problems and can be effective against colds and flu, chronic bronchitis and catarrhal coughs.
Ginseng can be taken on a long-term basis against acute infections and to improve general well-being, however as stressed in my previous article to optimise the benefits of most herbs a break of one week is advised every six weeks. When using herbs for general maintenance, the lower recommended dose may be better and a break of up to two weeks every six weeks is advised. It is also important to purchase herbal products from a reputable supplier and Siberian ginseng products should contain at least 0.5% eleutheroside E and preferably 0.8% to be effective. There are many products that list Siberian ginseng as an ingredient but contain an inadequate amount of the recommended dose.
Therapeutically 50 to 100 drops of standard tincture can be taken and in capsule form 100 to 150mg, one, two to three times daily. The root can also be decocted, that is, brought to the boil and simmered for 10 to 20 minutes before straining and drinking. 2 to 3 grams of the root can be decocted daily.
Siberian ginseng is a stronger stimulant than other available ginsengs on the market and it is important to stick to the recommended dosage. Ginseng should not be taken with other caffeine drinks and some practitioners advise that the herb not be taken in the evening due to its stimulating action.
Siberian ginseng can be used to strengthen the body’s vital energy, which is so important during those long winter months when we are all more vulnerable to ill health and low energy. Embarking on new health regimes also requires that we build our vital energy strengthening the body to cope with, for example, diets which can deplete our energy and raise stress levels. It is much easier to stick to any health regime when our energy and stress levels are good making those New Year resolutions seem more achievable.
Safety considerations: Siberian ginseng may interfere with cardiac medications including hypo and hypertensive drugs and hypoglycemic agents. It may also enhance the effects of some medications.
Not to be taken by individuals with high blood pressure and those with heart conditions such as tachycardia.
Not to be taken if pregnant or nursing.
Caution: Do not self-diagnose or self-treat for serious or long-term conditions without first consulting a qualified herbal or medical practitioner.
Deirdre is a qualified herbalist and can be contacted by email at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone contact: 0872562109
