Eleuthero Root (1.1% Eleutherosides)

History and Uses:
Eleuthero Root is a member of the ginseng family; however, it is not considered a 'true ginseng,' because it is of a different genus than other popular ginsengs, such as the Korean (Panax ginseng) and American varieties. The root is not harvested until it is two or more years old; the older the root, the higher its value. Eleuthero Root is held in high esteem in China, where it has been valued for thousands of years, sometimes commanding a higher price than gold. Eleuthero Root is found in the Siberian province of Russia. Containing niacin, amino acids, carbohydrates and other vitamins and minerals, Eleuthero Root has been used to promote an overall sense of well-being. After nearly a thousand studies, Eleuthero Root is said to nutritionally support the glandular system. Herbalists call this herb an "adaptogen," which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation which would alter its normal function, and the plant's eleutherosides have been shown to be responsible for those adaptogenic properties. The eleutherosides are a range of glycosides with aromatic alcohol aglycones. The glycosides appear to act on the adrenal glands, helping to prevent adrenal hypertrophy and excess corticosteroid production in response to stress. The eleutherosides are additionally thought to help reduce the exhaustion phase of the stress response and return the adrenals to normal function faster. As a result, Eleuthero Root has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation. It has been shown to increase energy and stamina and to help the body resist viral infections, environmental toxins and the effects of radiation and chemotherapy. In Chinese Medicine, this Ginseng has been used to prevent bronchial and other respiratory infections, as well as viral infections. The Chinese used the root to provide energy and vitality, to increase resistance and to treat rheumatic diseases and heart ailments. Eleuthero Root has also been used in cardiovascular and neurovascular conditions to help restore memory, concentration and cognitive abilities which may be impaired from poor blood supply to the brain. Additionally, Eleuthero Root is a popular herbal remedy for debility, depression, fatigue and nervous breakdowns.