Adapt to Stress with Herbal Adaptogens
(Page 3 of 5)
September/October 2007
By Laurel Vukovic
Scientists have identified compounds in eleuthero called eleutherosides, which have similar effects to the ginsenosides found in P. ginseng. Many herbalists regard eleuthero to be more appropriate for a wider range of people than the more stimulating P. ginseng.
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A typical dosage of eleuthero is 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of liquid extract twice a day or 2 to 3 grams of powdered root daily. Some products are standardized for eleutherosides; if you’re taking these products, follow the manufacturers’ dosage recommendations. For best results, take eleuthero for at least three months. Because eleuthero can have positive effects on regulating blood pressure, consult your doctor if you’re taking blood pressure medication.
Ginseng: A Long-Revered Tonic
Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng). In ancient China, ginseng was valued more highly than gold, and turf wars still flare in the United States over stands of wild American ginseng (P. quinquefolius). A slow-growing woodland plant, ginseng has been revered for more than 5,000 years as a premier herbal vitality tonic.
The botanical name, Panax, is derived from a combination of Greek words that translates as “cure-all,” or “panacea.” Hundreds of studies support ginseng’s illustrious reputation. Research shows that ginseng increases endurance, relieves fatigue, bolsters immunity, helps regulate cholesterol and blood sugar, and enhances mental function. Two species of ginseng are commonly used as adaptogens: Asian ginseng, which grows in China; and American ginseng, which is native to the northeastern United States. Both have similar properties. In fact, Native Americans used ginseng in much the same way as the Chinese, and American ginseng is highly prized in China.
In research studies, ginseng has clearly been shown to enhance physical and mental performance and help protect the body against stress. Scientists have identified dozens of active compounds unique to ginseng called ginsenosides.
Ginseng appears to modulate hormonal reactions, particularly those related to the physiological stress response. Studies have shown that ginseng helps to lower levels of stress hormones called glucocorticoids, both immediately after stressful incidents and during periods of prolonged stress. In a 1996 study published in Phytotherapy Research, 232 people suffering from long-term fatigue were given a multivitamin/mineral supplement. Researchers spiked half of the subjects’ dosage with 40 mg of standardized ginseng extract twice a day. The other half were given a placebo. After a couple of months, only 5.7 percent of the ginseng group still complained of fatigue, compared to 15.2 percent of those taking the placebo.
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