What Is Siberian Root Used For?

Siberian root, commonly known as Siberian ginseng, has been used in Eastern countries, including China and Russia, for centuries. Due to its reputed healthful properties, including its beneficial effect on the immune system, it has recently become popular in the West as an alternative medicine. Siberian root can be found as an over-the-counter supplement in supermarkets and health food stores and comes in many forms, including powders, liquids, capsules and tablets.



Caution should be exercised in taking any herb. Consult with your health care provider before taking Siberian ginseng.

Purported Health Benefits

• Numerous supplements are made by grinding the root into a powder.

  Compounds within Siberian root, known as eleutherosides, are thought to be responsible for its medicinal effects, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). As reported by WebMD as well as UMMC, the root is used to increase immunity against the common cold, flu and herpes simplex viruses, as well as to enhance mental and physical performance and improve overall quality of life. The root has been termed an "adaptogen," a substance that helps the body to cope with stress, and is widely used in Russia for this purpose.

Scientific Evidence

• Numerous studies have attempted to increase our understanding of the root's true health benefits. One study, as reported by UMMC, concluded that those taking a Siberian ginseng extract for four weeks showed improvements in their immune function, reinforcing the claimed benefits of enhancing the immune system. Additional studies reviewed by the medical center have shown that those taking the root supplement experienced improved mental performance and memory when compared to those given a placebo. Experimental studies of Siberian ginseng and its effect on physical performance were also reviewed and have shown mixed results, indicating the need for further research to understand the root's potential as an aid for athletes.

Recommended Dosage and Timing

• Recommended dosages differ depending on the supplemental form, as reported by UMMC and Nutros.com:

  Extract: 100 to 200 mg, 2 times per day

  Tincture: 1/2 to 1 tsp., 2 to 3 times per day

  Dried: 2 to 3 g daily in tea or capsule form

  When using the root for the herpes simplex virus, the extract should be standardized to contain eleutheroside E 0.3% in doses of 400 mg per day.

  Siberian ginseng should be taken before meals and is not recommended for supplementation for more than six to eight weeks due to its buildup within the body.

Safety and Side Effects

• When used as directed, Siberian ginseng is generally considered safe. Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, however, and therefore their safety is unconfirmed. All herbs should be taken with caution as they may interfere with other herbs, supplements and medications. Those taking certain medications, such as digoxin, anticoagulants and sedatives used to treat insomnia, or experiencing high blood pressure should consult with their health care provider before using Siberian ginseng. Side effects include high blood pressure, insomnia, vomiting, headache, confusion, nosebleed and irregular heart rhythm.