Eleuthero Supplements: Benefits, Side Effects and Where to Buy

Have you heard of eleuthero? Also known as Siberian ginseng, this potent immune booster is native to parts of Asia and southeastern Russia and has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years. Eleuthero has been used to support a wide range of conditions including brain fog, stress, low immunity, and fatigue. In this article, we’ll explore eleuthero supplement benefits, side effects, and where to buy. 

What is Eleuthero? 

Eleuthero (Acanthopanax senticosus, formerly Eleutherococcus senticosus), is a woody shrub indigenous to Asia and parts of Russia. This plant, once called Siberian ginseng for its similarities to “true ginseng” which includes both Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), was renamed “eleuthero” in 2002 to avoid confusion. 

Like true ginseng, eleuthero has a number of health benefits, including better energy, reduced inflammation and improved focus. However, true ginseng contains ginsenosides, the antioxidant phytochemical compounds that are the active ingredients found in the plant genus Panax. 

Eleuthero contains its own unique class of powerful components known as eleutherosides, which are adaptogenic compounds that have been shown to regulate stress, improve cognitive function, and reduce the effects of mental and physical fatigue. 

Eleuthero also contains a number of antioxidant compounds including triterpenoid saponins and flavones. 

Eleuthero Supplement Benefits

Eleuthero supplements are typically derived from root and bark extracts. High-quality supplements will maximize the concentration of active eleutherosides, especially syringaresinol diglucosides, an adaptogen with anti-inflammatory and glucose-regulating properties. In addition to regulating stress, benefits of eleuthero supplements include: 

Anti-viral properties

Eleuthero is recognized for its anti-viral and immune-boosting properties. Studies show that eleuthero supplementation can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms, especially secondary infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and otitis (ear infections). Eleuthero has also been shown to reduce flu mortality rates. 

Additionally, eleuthero root supplements can boost the anti-inflammatory action of macrophages, an essential type of white blood cell that destroys pathogens and helps heal damaged tissue.    

Improved cognitive function

Eleuthero has been shown to reduce brain fog, improve memory, and supercharge cognitive function. One animal study from 2024 found that eleuthero helped reduce fatigue, boost memory, and could even help relieve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

Energy and cardiovascular endurance 

Eleuthero supplements have been shown to improve oxygenation, enhance physical endurance, and boost cardiovascular function. In one notable study, nine participants were given a starch-based placebo or an 800mg dose of eleuthero before cycling at 75% of their maximum oxygen uptake (VO2). Remarkably, participants who received the eleuthero supplements endurance time improved by 23%.

Eleuthero Side Effects 

Common side effects of eleuthero supplements include: 

• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Headache

However, some individuals may experience a severe allergic reaction in response to eleuthero supplements. Symptoms include: hives, itchiness, trouble breathing. If you experience this reaction, stop supplementation immediately and contact 911. 

Although eleuthero is generally well-tolerated, individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should exercise caution. Always speak to a doctor before beginning any new supplement or medication. 

Where to Buy Eleuthero Supplements

Interested in eleuthero supplements? Eleuthero supplements can be difficult to find, especially if you’re looking for high-quality, organic products. Our top pick? MediHerb Eleuthero by Standard Process. Packed with eleutherosides sourced from 100% organic eleuthero root and 950 mcg  syringaresinol diglucosides for powerful adaptogenic stress relief and immune system support. Try it here in our online shop. 

Standard Process Eleuthero Ingredients

Each Serving Size (1 Tablet) contains: Calcium 44 mg, Eleuthero root 10:1 extract 125 mg (from Eleutherococcus senticosus root and rhizome 1.25 g, Containing syringaresinol diglucosides 950 mcg). Other Ingredients: Dibasic calcium phosphate dihydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium and magnesium stearate.