Evidence supporting the use of: Siberian ginseng
For the body system: Cortisol

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as eleuthero, has been used in traditional Chinese and Russian herbal medicine for centuries as an adaptogen—a substance believed to help the body resist physical, environmental, and emotional stress. The concept of "adaptogens" is rooted primarily in traditional use and was popularized in Russia during the mid-20th century, where Siberian ginseng was studied for its ability to enhance stamina and reduce fatigue in athletes and cosmonauts. The connection to the "Cortisol body system" is based on the adaptogenic claim that Siberian ginseng may help the body adapt to stress, potentially influencing cortisol production or regulation, as cortisol is a key hormone involved in the stress response.

However, while there is a robust tradition supporting the use of Siberian ginseng for stress and fatigue, scientific validation remains limited and mixed. Some small studies and animal research suggest that eleuthero may have a mild effect on stress adaptation and might modulate certain physiological responses, but high-quality clinical trials in humans are sparse and often methodologically weak. There is insufficient direct scientific evidence demonstrating a significant or consistent effect of Siberian ginseng on cortisol levels in humans. As such, its use is primarily justified by tradition rather than robust scientific evidence.

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