SIBERIAN GINSENG

Siberian Ginseng is an ingredient in our Pre-workout blend, below you will find fascinating information and key benefits about this ingredient.

Siberian ginseng is an adaptogen which has been used in traditional Asian medicines for centuries. It contains chemicals called polysaccharides to boost immune system function and eleutherosides to improve oxygen circulation in the body. It is also useful for repairing nerve damage, better insulin absorption and good sexual health.

Native to far-east Asia, Eleutherococcus senticosus is a small shrub also known as Siberian ginseng. It is not the same plant as either American ginseng or Asian ginseng but it does have similar properties.

Siberian ginseng’s use in traditional medicines goes back thousands of years. In Chinese medicine, it’s used to increase energy, improve kidney health, treat inflammation and lower blood pressure. In Russian medicine, it’s used to boost the immune system and a general tonic for good health. Siberian ginseng is an adaptogen, which means it helps humans to adapt to environmental factors such as stress.

There is evidence that Siberian ginseng can aid faster recovery from colds and flu. The root contains chemicals called polysaccharides, which are linked to strong immune system function. Siberian ginseng also has the ability to increase oxygen levels in the body’s cells, which elevates both physical endurance and brain function. This could be due to the presence of compounds called eleutherosides in the root.

Studies have shown that Siberian ginseng can also prevent and improve nerve damage. It is being explored as a potential natural remedy for Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological conditions. Eleutherosides have also proven to be able to reduce the body’s resistance to insulin, which makes it an interesting option for management of diabetes.

Siberian ginseng also supports healthy menstruation and uterine health in women. It has also been found to increase sperm count and testosterone levels in men.

Siberian ginseng is safe for most people to use but it can interact with medications such as anticoagulants, warfarin and steroids.

Key benefits

Key benefits of Siberian ginseng include:

Adaptogenic Properties: Siberian ginseng is classified as an adaptogen, which means it can help the body adapt to stress and promote overall well-being. It has been traditionally used to support resilience and vitality. Siberian ginseng can help reduce stress, improve mental performance, and enhance physical endurance and recovery.

Cognitive Function: Siberian ginseng can have positive effects on cognitive function. It can improve memory, attention, and mental performance, particularly in stressful or fatiguing situations. Siberian ginseng can also have anti-depression and anti-anxiety properties.

Diabetes Management: Siberian ginseng can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, benefiting individuals with diabetes.

Heart Health: Siberian ginseng can have cardio-protective effects by reducing cholesterol levels, improving blood lipid profiles, and supporting healthy blood pressure.

Immune System Support: Siberian ginseng can have immune-modulating effects, helping to regulate the immune system. It can enhance immune function and increase the production of immune cells, such as T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells.

Physical Performance and Endurance: Siberian ginseng has benefits in enhancing physical performance and endurance. It can increase stamina, reduce fatigue, and improve exercise capacity.

You should avoid Siberian ginseng if you take any of the below medication

Avoid Siberian ginseng if taking the following medications:

Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs: Siberian ginseng may have mild blood-thinning properties. Combining it with anticoagulant medications (e.g., warfarin, heparin) or antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel) could increase the risk of bleeding. Use caution and consult a healthcare provider.

Immunosuppressants: Siberian ginseng may enhance the effects of immunosuppressant medications, increasing the risk of infections or other complications. Examples of immunosuppressants include corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), cyclosporine, and methotrexate. Consult a healthcare provider before combining Siberian ginseng with immunosuppressants.

Diabetes Medications: Siberian ginseng may affect blood sugar levels. Combining it with diabetes medications could potentially enhance the medications' effects, leading to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Monitor blood sugar levels closely and consult a healthcare provider if using Siberian ginseng alongside diabetes medications.

Caffeine: Siberian ginseng may have stimulant effects. Combining it with caffeine-containing substances, such as coffee or energy drinks, could increase the risk of side effects such as jitteriness, nervousness, or insomnia.

Stimulant Medications: Siberian ginseng may enhance the effects of stimulant medications, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, or nervousness. Examples of stimulant medications include ADHD medications like methylphenidate or amphetamine-based drugs.

ACE Inhibitors: Siberian ginseng may potentially interact with ACE inhibitors, medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Combining the two could potentially affect blood pressure regulation. Consult a healthcare provider before using Siberian ginseng alongside ACE inhibitors.

Alcohol: Combining Siberian ginseng with alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, or liver toxicity. Avoid concurrent use or use caution.

Digoxin and Other Medications for Heart Failure: Siberian ginseng may potentially interact with medications used to treat heart failure, such as digoxin. Consult a healthcare provider before combining them.

You should avoid Siberian ginseng if you have any of the below allergen or medical condition

Individuals with the following allergies or medical conditions should use caution or avoid Siberian ginseng:

Allergies to Plants in the Araliaceae Family: Siberian ginseng belongs to the Araliaceae family of plants. Individuals with known allergies to plants in this family, such as ginseng or ivy, may experience allergic reactions, including skin irritation, itching, rash, or respiratory symptoms, upon exposure to Siberian ginseng.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited information is available regarding the safety of Siberian ginseng during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before using Siberian ginseng due to potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant.

Hormonal Disorders: Siberian ginseng contains compounds that may affect hormone levels. Individuals with hormonal disorders, such as estrogen-sensitive conditions (e.g., breast cancer, uterine fibroids), should use Siberian ginseng cautiously or avoid it due to its potential hormonal activity.

Diabetes: Siberian ginseng may affect blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar closely when using Siberian ginseng and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for them.

Heart Conditions: Siberian ginseng may have effects on the cardiovascular system, including increasing heart rate and blood pressure. Individuals with heart conditions such as hypertension or arrhythmias should use Siberian ginseng cautiously or avoid it altogether.

Bleeding Disorders: Siberian ginseng may have mild blood-thinning properties. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications should use Siberian ginseng cautiously to prevent excessive bleeding.

Autoimmune Diseases: Siberian ginseng may stimulate the immune system. Individuals with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis should use Siberian ginseng cautiously, as it may exacerbate symptoms or interfere with medications used to manage these conditions.

Psychiatric disorders: Individuals with psychiatric disorders should use Siberian ginseng cautiously due to its stimulant effects, which may exacerbate symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, or mood instability. Consultation with a healthcare provider is advisable to assess individual risks, potential interactions with medications, and ensure safe usage.