Eleutherococcus

A thorny bush, 2 to 3 metres tall, that colonises the mixed forests beyond the geographical border of panax ginseng, because it tolerates colder climates – Compound palmate leaves with a long petiole – Clusters of flowers in spherical umbels, purple for the males and yellowish in colour for the females – Fruit: black berries.

Latin name

Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim.

Origin

Siberia and northern China.

Used part

The rhizomes.

Active components

Eleutherosides: a complex group of compounds (lignans, sterols, coumarins, saponins) that are responsible for the adaptogenic, stimulating, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective and antioxidant effect.

Polysaccharides: strengthen the immune system.

Polyphenols: antioxidants.

Usage

In traditional Chinese medicine, eleutherococcus or “Ci-wu-jia” is used as a remedy for bronchitis, cardiac conditions, liver diseases and rheumatism. Moreover, the plant is regularly used to support vitality, general health, memory and appetite. Eleutherococcus is rich in antioxidants and thus contributes to resistance against oxidative stress. 1-5 At the same time, it strengthens the immune system and increases resistance, it is therefore used to combat a chill. 6-15 Recent studies have shown that the “Kan jang” complex (the combination of andrographis with eleutherococcus) can successfully be used in a natural approach to winter ailments