Evidence supporting the use of: Eleuthero
For the body system: Sympathetic Nervous System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as Siberian ginseng, is traditionally used as an adaptogen—a substance believed to help the body resist physical, environmental, and emotional stressors. Adaptogens like eleuthero are thought to support the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) by modulating the body's stress response. Several animal and human studies have investigated eleuthero's effects on stress adaptation, fatigue, and overall resilience, which are functions associated with SNS activity.

Scientific evidence suggests that eleuthero can influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and may reduce stress-induced physiological changes. Randomized controlled trials in humans have shown some benefits in reducing fatigue and improving mental performance during periods of stress, likely due to its ability to modulate the body's response to stressors. Some studies indicate eleuthero may normalize or buffer cortisol levels and other stress markers, suggesting an effect on the SNS, but results are not always consistent or robust.

Although eleuthero is widely used and recognized as an adaptogen in herbal medicine, the quality of evidence is moderate. Most studies are small, short-term, or use varying preparations. Overall, while there is some scientific basis for eleuthero supporting the SNS in the context of stress adaptation, more rigorous research is needed to confirm these effects and clarify mechanisms.

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