Acanthopanax Senticosus

Acanthopanax Senticosus is also known as Ci wu jia, Devil's Root, Eleuthero, Eleutherococcus Senticosus, Shigoka, Touch-Me-Not, Wuchaseng, and in the regions of North America, is most commonly referred to as Siberian Ginseng.

Herb Overview

Acanthopanax Senticosus is an herb that was introduced to the west in the 70’s under the name of Wuchaseng and is native to China, Japan, Korea and Russia.  The plant is understood to be an adaptogen because it addresses so many bodily issues.  The term adaptogen merely expresses the herbs ability to stabilize the body’s system, regardless of the dysfunction under treatment.  It is revered for its ability to balance the body and is used for a variety of reasons.  Reasons for the use of Acanthopanax Senticosus include, appetite stimulation, suppression of fatigue, to fight Bacteria, to fend off viruses, for immune system stimulation, to improve Memory function, to improve magalocyte functioning, to improve antigen, to increase longevity, to inhibit some Cancer growths, to improve kidney conditions, to promote bodily balance, to address spleen conditions, to promote strength maintenance, and to increase bodily vigor.  This herb is also excellent for dealing with certain sexual dysfunctions, increasing white blood cells after radiation treatments, fighting the signs naturally associated with the process of aging, improving the functionality of the adrenal glands and reducing the symptoms associated with anxiety.  Finally, Siberian Ginseng is also noted for its mood elevating properties.

Endurance

Acanthopanax Senticosus is an herb that is revered for its endurance enhancing properties.  In fact, Siberian Ginseng is believed to balance whatever is out of balance in the body and this could be why one’s endurance level is affected.  For instance, if the individual has difficulty coping with certain environmental stressors and the stressors in question are adversely affecting the body, the individual may notice that Acanthopanax Senticosus helps them deal with the affects of such stressors.  In turn, a noted increase in one’s endurance may be the result from the use of Acanthopanax Senticosus. 

Immune System Benefits

Studies have shown that individuals taking Acanthopanax Senticosus show extensive augmentations in terms of immune system functioning.  Individuals taking Acanthopanax Senticosus on a regular basis have increased bodily strength, can cope with environmental stressors better and have fewer cold or Flu-like symptoms.

Reproductive Benefits

Numerous studies involving animals indicate that Acanthopanax Senticosus improves fertility.  Other animal studies have revealed that this herb has inhibited the growth of leukemia in animals.

Memory Benefits

Acanthopanax Senticosus is believed to enhance the state of one’s alertness and several studies suggest that one’s ability to concentrate and remember things are also increased.

Overall Health Benefits

It has been revealed that Acanthopanax Senticosus is an herb that can inhibit the reproduction of certain viruses, especially those that are responsible for causing the Flu.  Common cold symptoms are also reduced with the use of this herb.  Moreover, while Acanthopanax Senticosus is not capable of curing Herpes simplex type 2, it does reduce the frequency of eruptions.

Herb Description

Acanthopanax Senticosus, although akin to Asian and American forms of ginseng, is an herb that is constructed differently than its distant plant relatives.  All Acanthopanax Senticosus products are derived from eleutherosides and polysaccharides found in the plant’s root.  This herb grows as a shrub and has been noted to reach heights of as much as 10 feet tall.  Typically the herb has anywhere from three to seven leaves and each leaf appears somewhat “toothed.” The plant possesses tiny thorns.

Herb Make-Up

The only part of the plant that is used for medicinal purposes is the root and the rhizome (both beneath the ground).  The root is harvested during the autumn.  The plant possesses leaves numbering three to seven, but the leaves are not used.

Types Available

Acanthopanax Senticosus can be purchased as an extract, as capsules, tablets, and the dried herb can be used as a Tea.  Additionally, tinctures can be made out of Acanthopanax Senticosus and alcohol or out of water, alcohol and Acanthopanax Senticosus for use. 

Method of Intake

Acanthopanax Senticosus is not an herb that is recommended for children, especially because of its ability to act as a stimulant.  Adults can safely take 500 to 3000 mg of the root (dried), as a Tea concoction, per day.  Tinctures can be created that are part alcohol/herb or one part alcohol, one part water, one part herb and this Tincture, in turn, can be taken three times daily.  Individuals should follow the recommendations on the bottle if they choose to take Acanthopanax Senticosus in pill form.  Also, adults using Acanthopanax Senticosus should stop taking the herb after extended use to avoid building Immunity to it.

Precautions

Individuals should take care to avoid interaction with other drugs and herbs when they are taking Acanthopanax Senticosus.  It is recommended that individuals contact a professional before taking the herb.  Acanthopanax Senticosus has been noted to cause irritability, restlessness, and nervousness in some people.  It may also be noted to cause insomnia in certain instances and should therefore be taken in the morning.

People that have Sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or other Sleep problems should avoid using Acanthopanax Senticosus as should people with cases of extremely high Blood pressure.  Pregnant women and women who breast feed should also avoid the use of this herb.  If you develop high Blood pressure, issues with Sleep, nosebleeds, rashes, unexplained swelling and issues with breathing you should stop taking the herb and contact a medical professional immediately.

Interaction Possibilities

Acanthopanax Senticosus may interact with heart medications like Digoxin and has been known to make the drug accumulate within one’s system. Those individuals taking Digoxin should avoid taking Acanthopanax Senticosus.  Likewise, Acanthopanax Senticosus is noted to interact with stimulants like caffeine, barbiturates, insulin intake, Haldol, haloperidol, clazopine, Zyprexa and other antipsychotic prescriptions.  Certain seizure medications may also interact with Acanthopanax Senticosus.  It is always wise to speak with a professional before taking any herb, particularly if one is taking any of the above mentioned issues or is being treated for any of the above health related conditions.