Common Names: Ginseng Root, Eleuthero, Devil's Shrub, Devil's Bush, Pepper Brush, Wild Pepper, Touch-Me-Not, Wu Jia Pi
Habitat/Range: Native to Siberia, northern China, Japan and Korea, now naturalized in northwestern U.S. and British Columbia.
Description: Eleuthero is a small shrub-like plant with prickly thistles covering the branches and leaves. At one time, this herb was commonly known as Siberian ginseng. In the U.S., however, the Ginseng Labeling Act officially prohibited the use of this name in 2002 in an effort to clearly identify the country of origin of ginseng products. (1)
Parts Used: The medicinal components are the ground root and alcohol extract of the rhizome.
Traditional Uses: Eleuthero is considered an adaptogen, which means it helps the body retain balance while undergoing stress. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine to correct kidney and urinary tract issues, joint pain associated with rheumatism and arthritis, impotence, insomnia and to stimulate appetite and immune function (2). It is widely used in Siberia in winter to ward off the flu. Because the herb has a reputation for providing protection from chemotherapy and radiation, it was distributed among the local population after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986.
Chemical Composition: Eleuthero contains chlorogenic acid and other caffeic acid derivatives, hydroxycoumarins and a variety of lignans, polysaccharides, sterols and triterpene saponins (2).
Side Effects/Drug Interactions: Due to the immuno-stimulating effects of Eleuthero, you should not use this herb if you have an autoimmune disorder or while undergoing chemotherapy. This herb may increase the effects of certain pharmaceutical medications, including blood-thinning, anti-platelet, diabetes and high blood pressure medicines. Eleuthero may also interact with the heart medication, dioxin. Consult your physician before using this herb if you have a chronic condition or take any of these medications.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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