Eluthero Extract
Also known as: Eleuthero, Siberian ginseng, Eleutherococcus senticosus
Overview
Eleuthero extract is derived from the root and rhizome of Eleutherococcus senticosus, a shrub native to Northeast Asia. It is classified as an adaptogenic herbal supplement and immunomodulator, traditionally used to enhance stamina, reduce fatigue, and improve resistance to stress. The extract contains active compounds called eleutherosides, which are believed to contribute to its biological effects. Research on Eleuthero is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and some systematic reviews, though fewer than for more widely studied adaptogens like Panax ginseng. The quality of evidence is mixed, with some well-conducted RCTs but also variability in study design and outcomes. It is commonly used in various forms, primarily as standardized extracts.
Benefits
Eleuthero extract is primarily reported to improve physical endurance and reduce fatigue, particularly in individuals experiencing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and stress-related conditions. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown statistically significant improvements in fatigue scores and physical performance compared to placebo, with benefits typically emerging over 4-8 weeks of daily supplementation. These effects are most studied and observed in adults experiencing chronic fatigue, stress, or mild immunodeficiency. Secondary effects include potential immunomodulatory and antiviral properties, observed in vitro and in limited clinical settings. For example, an in vitro study demonstrated Eleuthero extract inhibited SARS-CoV-2 viral load by approximately 33% at therapeutic doses, suggesting potential antiviral activity, though this requires clinical validation. While quantitative data from meta-analyses are limited, individual RCTs report moderate effect sizes on fatigue scales with p < 0.05.
How it works
Eleuthero's active compounds, primarily eleutherosides, exert their effects by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which enhances the body's resilience to stress. Beyond HPA axis modulation, eleutherosides also exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Their molecular targets include the modulation of cortisol levels and the enhancement of natural killer cell activity, contributing to its adaptogenic and immune-supporting effects. The bioavailability of eleutherosides is moderate, with oral extracts commonly standardized to eleutheroside B and E.
Side effects
Eleuthero is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile in healthy adults. Common side effects, though rare, may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, or insomnia, reported in less than 5% of users. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) can include allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Serious adverse events have not been reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials. Potential drug interactions exist with immunosuppressants or anticoagulants due to its immunomodulatory effects, although clinical evidence supporting these interactions is limited. Eleuthero is contraindicated or should be used with caution in individuals with autoimmune diseases or during pregnancy due to limited safety data in these populations. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Eleuthero extract is typically 300-400 mg daily. The optimal dosage ranges from 400-1200 mg per day of a standardized extract, usually standardized to 0.8-1.5% eleutherosides, divided into 2-3 doses. The maximum safe dose observed in clinical studies is generally up to 1200 mg per day. It is recommended to take Eleuthero with meals to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Standardized root extracts are preferred for consistency in active compound content. Eleutherosides have moderate oral bioavailability, and while no specific cofactors are required, formulations with enhanced absorption are currently under investigation.
FAQs
Is Eleuthero safe for long-term use?
Eleuthero is generally considered safe for long-term use, but safety data beyond 6 months of continuous use are limited. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for extended use.
How soon will I feel effects?
Most individuals begin to experience the beneficial effects of Eleuthero within 2-4 weeks of consistent daily supplementation, as its adaptogenic effects build over time.
Can Eleuthero replace Panax ginseng?
Eleuthero is a distinct adaptogen from Panax ginseng. While they have overlapping benefits, Eleuthero is generally considered less potent but often better tolerated by some individuals. It is not a direct replacement.
Does it boost immunity?
Eleuthero modulates immune function, potentially enhancing natural killer cell activity and offering antiviral properties. However, it is not a substitute for vaccines or conventional medical treatments for immune-related conditions.
Research Sources
- https://bara.co.il/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Systematic_Reviews__Meta-Analyses_Of_Controlled_Clinical_Trials_that_Show_Positive_Trends__Results_for_Herbs%D7%9E%D7%90%D7%A8%D7%A7_%D7%91%D7%9C%D7%95%D7%9E%D7%A0%D7%98%D7%9C.pdf – This systematic review on adaptogens, including Eleuthero, found moderate evidence for fatigue reduction in chronic fatigue syndrome and stress-related fatigue. The included RCTs, with sample sizes over 30 and durations of 4-8 weeks, showed statistically significant improvements in fatigue scales (p < 0.05), despite heterogeneity in extract standardization and outcome measures.
- https://www.heraldopenaccess.us/openaccess/antiviral-activity-and-synergy-of-herba-andrographidis-and-radix-eleutherococci-preparations-against-sars-cov-2-infected-vero-e6-human-primary-embryonic-kidney-epithelial-cells – This in vitro study demonstrated that Eleuthero extract (standardized eleutherosides) inhibited SARS-CoV-2 viral replication by approximately 33% at concentrations corresponding to therapeutic doses (p<0.05). This finding suggests potential antiviral properties for Eleuthero, though it emphasizes the need for further clinical validation.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8398443/ – This randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving over 30 adults per group with chronic fatigue showed that 400 mg/day of Eleuthero extract for 8 weeks significantly improved fatigue scores compared to placebo (mean difference -1.5 points on fatigue scale, 95% CI -2.3 to -0.7, p=0.002). The study reported no serious adverse events, supporting Eleuthero's efficacy and safety for fatigue management.
