Eleutherococcus: treatment with Siberian ginseng at home. Eleutherococcus: indications for use, contraindications, properties

Eleutherococcus is a tall thorny shrub from the Araliaceae family, from which traditional medicine has discovered about a dozen plants with healing properties. One such healer is Eleutherococcus. Its alcoholic extract from the roots on ethyl alcohol 40 concentration is called Eleutherococcus tincture. It is in the ethanol solution that the transition of useful substances of the roots of the plant most fully occurs.

What explains the use of tincture

The world fame of Chinese medicine is based on thousands of years of experience in the study of the green world. Each plant has medicinal properties to a greater or lesser extent. The study of Eleutherococcus put it on a par with medicinal ginseng in terms of the content of natural medicinal compounds, but with some differences in the action of their constituent compounds. However, compared to ginseng, eleutherococcus is more common, and harvesting is much cheaper.

Chinese healers used the tincture to restore vitality to a person who finds himself in a situation where it is necessary to activate the immune system. A diverse range of activities adds vitality, is a natural energy.

In the middle of the last century, a scientific study of the biological and chemical composition of the plant began in Vladivostok. The Institute of Biologically Active Substances confirmed the beneficial effect of the extract from the root of Eleutherococcus on the human body. The scientific justification allowed the introduction of preparations from Eleutherococcus into traditional medical practice. Eleutherococcus tincture was even used to improve performance in the sports direction, compensating for the loss of strength after heavy loads.

There is evidence that Eleutherococcus tincture is one of the secret ingredients in energy drinks.

What are the benefits and harms of Eleutherococcus tincture? First of all, the biological composition of the roots, which are carriers of useful ingredients. The main active substances that are absent in other plants are eleutherosides, in various forms, glycosides. In addition, the composition is rich:

• resin;
• essential oils;
• anthocyanins;
• gum;
• flavonoids and saponites.

The composition of the resulting extract is a strong biologically active substance that cannot be used at one's discretion.

The action of Eleutherococcus tincture is considered, on the one hand, as a physiological hypnotic, on the other hand, enhances the effect of stimulants such as camphor or caffeine. Therefore, you can use the drug on the recommendation and under the supervision of a doctor.

The beneficial effect of preparations from Eleutherococcus is considered in many cases:

• restorative and tonic effect;
• weakened after a long illness to people;
• to reduce
• to increase pressure in hypotensive patients;
• increase potency in men and libido in women;
• when working in extreme conditions, not related to driving.

However, in each case, different schemes for taking the tincture, its degree of dilution and also its interaction with medications are used, the effect of which may vary from mixing the compositions. You should also take into account the time of taking the tincture so that its time of action ends before the onset of a night's sleep.

The well-known effective actions of the drug are:

• adaptogenicity, use to reduce the reaction to weather events and stress;
• toning the immune system to fight viruses in the off-season;
• increased blood supply to the brain due to vasodilation;
• improved vision and mental performance.

Eleutherococcus tincture is useful, but harm from taking is inevitable under the following circumstances:

• hypertension;
• insomnia;
• increased excitability;
• liver disease;
• heart problems;
• epilepsy;
• alcoholism;
• allergic to a complex composition.

It is impossible to arbitrarily take tincture for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under 12 years old without a doctor's prescription. In this case, the attending specialist must sign how to take Eleutherococcus tincture.

Eleutherococcus tincture can be prescribed for low blood pressure, dizziness and weakness. In this case, the woman feels better. The cause of reduced immunity during pregnancy can be herpes. And in this case, doctors prescribe Eleutherococcus, despite the undesirable intervention in a special period. the only condition is to take the tincture in the morning, so as not to cause insomnia.

Alcohol tincture of Eleutherococcus is not allowed for children under 12 years of age. Ethyl alcohol in any concentration has a depressing effect on the child's nervous system. However, the same concentrate is produced by the industry in tablets. If, for medical reasons, a tincture is necessary, then in half the dosage, with a strong dilution, and only in the morning.

Taking the tincture inside and rubbing it into the scalp for a month has a beneficial effect on the condition of the hair.

Eleutherococcus tincture instructions for use

Before using a medical drug, it is necessary to study the description and recommendations for use. Be sure to consult with your doctor before use. Only knowing the state of the body, the complex state of health, one can be sure of the safety of the new drug. Instructions for use of Eleutherococcus tincture will help you apply the drug correctly.

Dosage form tincture of Eleutherococcus roots in 40% ethyl alcohol. Appointment - stimulation of the nervous system. Used as a dietary supplement. Used as a stimulant

• improvement of vision;
• decrease in drowsiness;
• activation of metabolism;
• normalization of appetite;
• lowering cholesterol.

The tincture is used in dilution. Measuring the recommended 20 or 40 drops is difficult. But in every house there is a syringe with a graduation. Ten drops are always equal to one cube on the syringe chamber. Therefore, you can take the tincture with a cubic centimeter, typing with a syringe, it’s more convenient. Dilute 2-4 cubes in 50 ml of water and drink 20 minutes before meals in the morning and afternoon. The course is usually 2-4 weeks. For children over 12 years old, the dose is set drop by drop for each year of life, from 12 drops and above.

The drug is contraindicated for simultaneous administration:

• with tranquilizers;
• barbiturates;
• drugs for epilepsy;
• psychostimulants.

Store the drug in a dry, dark and cool place. Dispose of the tincture after the expiration date indicated on the label.

Preparation of Eleutherococcus tincture at home

Pour 100 grams of crushed Eleutherococcus roots with half a liter of vodka or diluted alcohol in a glass container with a sealed stopper. Shaking well, put in a dark place in the room. Shake the suspension daily for three weeks. Strain through several layers of gauze, close tightly, store in the refrigerator. Other methods differ in one thing, the more Eleutherococcus chips are taken, the less time you need to insist to get the desired concentration.

The aerial part of the plant is not used for medicinal purposes, the berries are used in cooking.

How to take Eleutherococcus - video

Eleutherococcus senticosus (Eleutherococcus senticosus), or spiny berry, from the Araliaceae family grows in Russia, Korea, Japan and China, and is also found in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Primorye and the Amur Region. This tall thorny shrub loves mountain slopes and well-lit forest clearings.

The inhabitants of the Far East gave him another name - "devil's bush". For all its external attractiveness during the fruiting period, Eleutherococcus repels herbalists with its sharp, but fragile thorns: splinters are provided during collection.

Botanical description of the plant

In nature, Eleutherococcus is a thorny shrub with branched horizontal rhizomes. In their appearance, they are very reminiscent of ginseng roots. By the way, eleutherococcus is considered a domestic version of ginseng, it is also called "Siberian ginseng". And the point here is not so much in the external similarity of the rhizomes of both plants, but in a similar healing effect - to give strength, strengthen health, and increase vitality. At one time, eleutherococcus was perceived as an analogue of ginseng, the natural reserves of which by a certain period of its popularity were depleted. So I had to look for a replacement for the Chinese miracle root. And our Eleutherococcus just became this replacement.

Eleutherococcus belongs to the Araliaceae family. In our country, the plant can be found in the Far East, in the Amur region and in the south of Sakhalin.

Of about thirty varieties, only one species has found application in medicine - this is spiny eleutherococcus. Its beneficial properties are well studied and are considered in many respects similar to those of ginseng.

Medicinal eleutherococcus is a shrub with numerous basal branches covered with thin and sharp thorns pointing down. These thorns are present only on young branches. Old plants are smooth gray trunks, reminiscent of trees.

The leaves are compound - on a long petiole there are several palmately arranged reverse-oval leaflets with small notches along the perimeter. The flower is a basket of yellow and purple pistillate and stamen florets. The fruit is a bunch of black berries, each up to 1 cm in diameter, with five large seeds inside. They ripen in September.

Chemical composition and features

Most often, the roots and rhizomes of this shrub plant are used for medicinal purposes. They are harvested in the fall. The roots contain many useful active substances, for example, eleutherosides, or, as they are also called, glycosides. It is thanks to them that Eleutherococcus has so many beneficial properties. Hence another name - "Siberian ginseng".

Associated substances: essential oils (up to 0.8% dry weight), starch, lipids, gums, vegetable wax, coumarin derivatives, resins, glucose, pectin and tanning compounds. In autumn, just before leaf fall, they reach their maximum concentration.

What explains the very high biological value of a plant such as Eleutherococcus? Its beneficial properties and contraindications are due to the presence of rare anthocyanins, essential oils, resins, gums, pectins and glycosides in the roots. Glycosides, called eleutherosides, are the most essential component of the medicinal plant. They stimulate the production of endorphins, and also contribute to the synthesis of enzymes that accelerate the process of burning carbohydrates, preventing them from being deposited in ballast adipose tissue.

There are seven eleutherosides in Eleutherococcus, and five of them are classified as lignans. They are responsible for unique antitumor, antihemorrhagic, antimicrobial, stimulant and adaptogenic properties. Eleutherococcus, the beneficial properties of which are sometimes correlated with those of another natural healer from the Araliaceae family, ginseng, unlike the latter, does not contain saponins.

What is useful Eleutherococcus?

The benefits of the plant in its richest composition, including:

• eleutherosides, which have antimicrobial, antitumor and metabolic process regulating action;

• anthocyanins, which are bactericidal substances and counteract pathogenic bacteria;

• flavonoids responsible for metabolism and for the activity of enzymes in the body;

• saponins, have a stimulating effect on the hormonal system;

• pectins, which cleanse the body of intoxication with harmful substances and improve bowel function;

• vitamins in a large assortment and essential oils.

Medicinal preparations made on the basis of "Siberian ginseng" even have a number of advantages over preparations from ginseng root, due to the fact that they have a milder effect and the effectiveness of the preparations appears a little slower, but the duration of the treatment lasts longer.

Nutritional value, calories and glycemic index

A 100-gram portion of the roots, after assimilation, will give:

Studying the glycemic index, nutritionists came to the conclusion that it is low - 10 units.

The healing effect of the plant

What are the main medicinal properties of Eleutherococcus?

• Stimulant and adaptogenic. Eleutherococcus stimulates the nervous system, which allows you to cope with physical, psycho-emotional stress, stress, chronic fatigue syndrome. The drug can be used in people employed in hazardous industries. The root also stimulates the immune system, strengthening the body's defenses, well restores strength after severe and prolonged illnesses, operations, radiotherapy and chemotherapy for cancer. It can be prescribed before the operation.
• Anti-inflammatory and wound healing. Eleutherococcus (without alcohol content) is used externally to heal wounds and burns. It quickly restores the affected tissue and relieves pain. It is also used in the care of oily, porous skin. Eleutherococcus normalizes lipid (fat) metabolism, so it is prescribed as an external remedy for seborrhea and acne. For these purposes, alcohol tinctures should not be used. From the dry root of Eleutherococcus, decoctions are prepared for lotions and washing the skin.

Due to its tonic and anti-inflammatory properties, "Siberian ginseng" is used in cosmetology. It is added to masks, creams, shampoos. This medicinal plant is effective in hair care. Decoctions diluted with water rinse the head to improve hair growth, used for their fragility, baldness, dandruff.

What are the features of the effects of Eleutherococcus?

• Medicinal preparations have tonic properties, help to increase efficiency. Possessing an invigorating effect, it eliminates mental retardation, lethargy, drowsiness, concentrates attention and improves the functioning of the nervous system. Pronounced adaptogenic properties.

• The use of Eleutherococcus in infectious diseases increases the body's resistance in the fight against viral and bacterial infections during epidemics. Being an immunomodulator, it strengthens the immune system of the human body, restores immunity well after serious illnesses, poisoning, chemotherapy and radiation exposure in cancer patients.

• When taking this herbal remedy, the frequency of complications after SARS - bronchitis, otitis media, sinusitis, pneumonia, etc. - decreased significantly.

• The eleutherococcus plant changes hormone levels and tones the uterus, which helps reduce menopausal symptoms, improves the menstrual cycle and increases a woman's ability to conceive. It has no less beneficial effect on men's health, increasing potency and sexual activity.

• Eleutherococcus is prescribed for hypotension (low blood pressure), nervous exhaustion, irritability, insomnia and stress.

• Eleutherosides improve the permeability of glucose through cell membranes, which helps to reduce the amount of sugar in the blood. In addition, the benefit of Eleutherococcus lies in its ability to increase blood pressure, bringing it to normal levels. It will also be useful in the initial forms of atherosclerosis, with asthenia and mental disorders.

• Helps improve vision and hearing.

• Eleutherococcus extract is able to have an antitumor effect, normalize the activity of the cardiovascular system, relieve inflammation of the mucous membranes of the gallbladder and intestines, increase hemoglobin levels and increase lung capacity.

• The beneficial effect of Eleutherococcus is similar to the effect of ginseng on the body, and this is not at all surprising, since they are, although not very close, but still relatives. This plant is an excellent stimulant and tonic. It improves performance, overall well-being and brain activity. Therefore, the use of Eleutherococcus helps to cope with excessive physical and mental stress, energizes and increases vitality.

• It is used in the complex therapy of multiple sclerosis, to prevent further progression of the condition.

• Included in the complex treatment of psoriasis according to the method of M.V. Golyuk along with external means.

Indications for use

Alcohol tincture of Eleutherococcus has the following indications for use:

• Eleutherococcus tincture is an excellent antiviral agent for influenza
• diabetes;
• arterial hypotension;
• weakening of the immune system;
• oncological diseases;
• infectious diseases;
• atherosclerosis;
• oily seborrhea;
• infertility;
• impotence;
• violation of the menstrual cycle;
• asthenia;
• immunodeficiency;
• anorexia;
• obesity;
• vegetovascular dystonia;
• depression and fatigue.

For preventive purposes, the tincture is used in mass epidemics of influenza. Eleutherococcus is useful in the postoperative period to restore blood volume and enhance tissue regeneration.

Eleutherococcus in cosmetology

A unique plant has found application in cosmetology.

• Positively affecting the scalp, damaged hair, normalizes fat balance, reduces hair loss, fights seborrhea and baldness.

It is useful to combine external treatment of hair fragility, strengthening of hair follicles with eleutherococcus with the internal use of this remedy. The recommended course is at least a month, the dose is gradually increased from 5 drops to 40 three times a day.

• Eleutherococcus is added to the compositions of therapeutic face masks, creams that improve the complexion, the skin is rejuvenated due to the stimulating effect on blood vessels.

Men's Health Benefits

With increased physical exertion, accompanied by stress, even quite healthy men should take Eleutherococcus from time to time. Useful properties for men are expressed in the inclusion of adaptive reserves of the body. The plant helps to distribute the stress load evenly in order to prevent complications on individual systems or organs.

For men's health, it is strongly recommended to periodically use the beneficial properties of Eleutherococcus tincture. It is advisable to take the tincture immediately before the start of an intense load associated with both mental and physical stress. It is most correct to add a liquid alcohol extract of Eleutherococcus directly to tea. Useful properties will appear very quickly. Thirty drops are enough for one glass of drink. You can pour boiling water over one tablet of the pressed root, let it brew for twenty minutes and drink.

Eleutherococcus helps to overcome chronic fatigue syndrome and, which is important for men, has a positive effect on the functions of the reproductive organs (reduced libido and erectile dysfunction).

Restrictions on use for men

It is not always possible for the representatives of the stronger sex to drink preparations of Eleutherococcus. In this context, let's talk about what other properties Eleutherococcus has. Contraindications relate to those cases when a person takes drugs that intensively affect the central system. This applies to both stimulants and sedatives. With epilepsy, without prior consultation with a doctor, you should also not drink Eleutherococcus. Useful properties and contraindications apply to both tablets and liquid solutions containing this plant.

Women's Health Benefits

Pregnant women, as well as breastfeeding, can take any medication only after the appropriate verdict of the doctor. The same can be said about Eleutherococcus. It is difficult to overestimate the beneficial properties for women during the rehabilitation period after suffering an infectious disease. Arterial hypotension, neurasthenia, asthenia and convalescence after a somatic disease are indications for the use of Eleutherococcus preparations. It is possible to use tablets, alcohol-containing tinctures and extracts, as well as syrups.

With hypotension, it is very good to drink Eleutherococcus regularly. Useful properties and contraindications (in tablets or in the form of a liquid emulsion, it does not matter) apply only to cases of individual intolerance. All preparations with this plant gently and quickly raise blood pressure, calm the nervous system and stimulate mental activity.

With increased emotional stress and after severe stress, which led to a critical decrease in blood pressure, it is recommended to immediately take a medicine containing eleutherococcus.

Many women do not feel well during the premenstrual period. They experience sensations consistent with chronic fatigue syndromes and seasonal depression. This is due to the specific hormonal changes that occur in every woman of reproductive age every month. You can significantly affect your well-being by including a multivitamin syrup or tablets with Eleutherococcus in your daily diet.

During menopause, it is also very useful to occasionally drink a course of Elutherococcus.

Restrictions on use for women

Well known speed, which is famous for Eleutherococcus. Useful properties and contraindications are most often detected when trying to combine it with other drugs. Equally important are the individual characteristics of the organism. Eleutherococcus should not be combined with barbiturates. Double action on the central nervous system of potent drugs can lead to unpredictable consequences.

During pregnancy and lactation, the alcohol-containing form of Eleutherococcus should be excluded. As for tablets, capsules and water-based syrups, their use is possible only after consulting a doctor.

As unpleasant consequences of an overdose, there may be an allergic reaction in the form of an itchy rash and redness on the skin, as well as slight diarrhea.

Is it possible to give to children

In some instructions it is written that Eleutherococcus can be given to children from the age of 14, in others - from the age of 12. There is also such a scheme of administration: how old is the child, how many drops should be given at a single dose. However, without prescribing and consulting a doctor, the use of this phytopreparation in adolescents is contraindicated. There may be side effects in the form of excessive excitation of the nervous system, unexpected outbursts of aggression, insomnia, emotional instability. Stimulants of the nervous system, including those of plant origin, are prescribed to children and adolescents according to strict indications.

Dosage forms

The highest concentration of active substances is found in the rhizome of Eleutherococcus, which has a long branched shape and occupies an area of ​​up to 30 square meters underground. m.

Therefore, for the preparation of medicines and home remedies, it is more often used, but sometimes raw materials from leaves and twigs are added. Eleutherococcus berries are poisonous! They dig up the roots in the fall, choosing plants no younger than 5 years old, then they dry it and prepare tinctures, extracts, decoctions, tablets, teas, creams, etc. on its basis.

Each form of release is aimed at solving a strictly defined problem or group of problems.

• Welding or steaming is being prepared from the roots and leaves of the plant. The raw materials are crushed, placed in a porcelain teapot and poured with boiled clean water. The vessel is covered with a lid, then with a towel, and infused for 10 minutes. Strain and drink at the dosage recommended by the doctor.
• Eleutherococcus tea. You can brew tea from the roots of "Siberian ginseng". To do this, you need to pour a teaspoon of roots for 10 minutes with a glass of boiling water, strain and drink no more than twice a day. Such a tonic gull will help to adapt to changing weather conditions with increased sensitivity, extreme heat, sweltering humidity or severe cold.
• Tincture is sold in any pharmacy, but you can cook it yourself at home. It will take 200 g of dry Eleutherococcus roots, which must be crushed and poured with a liter of vodka or alcohol (40%). Stir, pour into a bottle and close it. Keep 2 weeks in a cool place, shake daily. At the end of the term, strain the tincture and pour into small bottles.
• pharmacy cream usually used for external use, sometimes in combination with other means (tincture or tablets). First you need to clean the affected area on the skin, wipe it dry, and then apply the cream with gentle circular motions. A positive effect is usually achieved in 3-4 weeks, in extreme cases - in 1.5 months.
• Herbal tablets , as well as lollipops and dragees. To hide the bitter taste of the free berry, a lot of sugar, flavorings and dyes are added to the tablets. Due to all these additives, the effectiveness of treatment is reduced, therefore, these forms of release are used exclusively for preventive purposes, for example, to avoid colds, and as a general tonic.
• Syrup. The main component of the syrup is a liquid extract of Eleutherococcus. In addition, the preparation includes vitamin C and rosehip extract, which enhances the adaptogenic properties of the root. The composition contains auxiliary substances: sugar, water, preservatives. The syrup can be stored for 2 years.
• Decoctions and powders prepared from the leaves and young twigs of the plant. Most often they are used in the form of additional funds for long-term treatment. Common areas of application: for diabetes, for violations of metabolic processes in the body and severe pain.

Important: it also relieves irritation and inflammation on the skin, promotes its healing in case of burns and wounds. To do this, make compresses on the affected areas, soaking a clean cloth with a decoction.

Interaction with other drugs

Eleutherococcus preparations should not be taken with the following pharmacological groups of drugs:

• analeptics;
• tranquilizers;
• sedative drugs;
• nervous system stimulants;
• nootropic drugs;
• adaptogens and other tonics.

Preparation and storage of Eleutherococcus

Eleutherococcus is harvested using: roots, harvested in autumn; leaves, collection period - spring. Late autumn is the best time for harvesting Eleutherococcus, since it is at this time that the roots of the plant have the maximum content of nutrients.

It is possible to re-produce blanks only 7 years after the previous harvest, since it is by this time that the plant will restore the root system and gain useful substances. It must be remembered that when digging up the roots of a plant, 15–20% of the roots should be left, otherwise Eleutherococcus will not be able to develop normally and give birth.

The roots are cut into pieces and dried either in dryers at 70-80 degrees, or in the attic. Well-harvested and dried raw materials have a long-waved cream or light yellow fracture with a loose middle. Storage is carried out on shelves (not on the floor or ground) in a dry, well-ventilated area.

It should be remembered that storage in plastic bags is strictly prohibited, due to the fact that the plant becomes damp in them, and interacting with the components of polyethylene is converted into poison. So it should be stored in cloth bags.

The leaves are harvested in July, it is at this time, at the time of preparation for flowering, that they contain the maximum amount of useful properties. With proper preparation, packaging and storage, blanks can be stored for 2 to 3 years, and even more.

Eleutherococcus contraindications

Not everyone can appreciate the beneficial properties of Eleutherococcus, as there are contraindications. If you have any chronic disease, it is advisable to consult a doctor before use.

• Allergy to eleutherococcus is rare, but still occurs. If after use a strange rash, nasal congestion or any other signs of allergy appear, you should immediately stop taking it, and if you feel unwell, immediately go to the hospital.
• During menstruation, women should pause in taking the remedy. Gynecologists explain this by the fact that eleutherococcus can increase nervousness in the first days of menstruation.
• Do not use this herbal remedy for pregnant women and during lactation.
• Children under 12 are not allowed to drink the Eleutherococcus setting, as it contains alcohol.
• Insomnia is also considered a contraindication, because the remedy has a strong tonic effect. For the same reason, it is advisable to take the drug in the morning so that there are no problems with sleep in the evening.
• In case of arterial hypertension and atherosclerosis, a preliminary consultation with the attending physician is required.
• With chronic heart disease, it is also better to talk to a specialist first, because the tonic properties of eleutherococcus can cause heart palpitations.
• At high temperatures, you can not take such drugs, as they accelerate metabolic processes in the body, therefore, contribute to an increase in body temperature.
• During infectious diseases in the acute stage, after myocardial infarction and with cerebrovascular pathology, it is forbidden to use any preparations based on Eleutherococcus.

Eleutherococcus is a real storehouse of unique beneficial substances that support the health and vitality of the body. But like any potent remedy, it requires some caution in use.

This type of product is sent only after prepayment.

Indications for use:

- Hypotension (increases blood pressure)

- Has a tonic effect

- Improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system

- With rheumatic heart disease

- With mental and physical overwork

- Increases potency

- Increases the body's resistance to viral diseases (ARVI)

- With menopause and irregular menstrual cycle, etc.

Short description:

Eleutherococcus senticosus - This is a shrub with a height of 2 to 5 meters, with a highly branched root system. The roots of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. Eleutherococcus roots are used as ginseng substitute. Eleutherococcus is recommended for use by those recovering from serious illnesses, with overwork and neurasthenia. From the roots of Eleutherococcus, a tincture is made, which is used for the prevention of respiratory diseases, for neuroses, in the complex treatment of oncological diseases, for the treatment of the consequences of traumatic brain injury, for poorly healing wounds, severe menopause, atherosclerosis, rheumatic heart disease, and Eleutherococcus is also effective in chronic inflammation of the gallbladder and colon mucosa.© source site

Application:

Hypotension. Normalizes (increases) blood pressure. Eleutherococcus tincture with 40% alcohol or vodka is taken 20-40 drops half an hour before meals in the morning and in the afternoon. The course of treatment is 25-30 days.

Tonic action. Eleutherococcus tincture at a single dose increases efficiency. With regular intake, there is a higher level of efficiency and improvement in overall well-being. Take 20-40 drops before meals (morning and afternoon), for a month.

Improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system. In diseases of the cardiovascular system, Eleutherococcus is taken 30 drops 3 times a day before meals in the first half of the day for 14 days.

With rheumatic affections of the heart. To stimulate cardiac activity, take 15-20 drops 2-3 times a day in the morning.

With mental and physical overwork. To increase mental performance, reduce fatigue during physical exertion, enhance visual acuity. Tincture is taken 15-20 drops before meals, in the morning and at lunchtime.

Potency increase. Take 30-40 drops 2-3 times in the morning.

Increases the body's resistance to viral diseases (ARVI). For the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, it is recommended to take tincture 2-3 times in the morning for ½ teaspoon.

With menopause and irregular menstrual cycle. Eleutherococcus tincture is taken 15-20 drops 2-3 times in the morning.

Eleutherococcus tincture preparation: The root must be washed in cold water and ground to a coarse powder. Then, in a ratio of 1:1 (100 g per 0.5 l), the root is poured with 40% alcohol or vodka. In a glass tightly closed container, the resulting mixture is infused in a dark place for 2 weeks. Every day at the same time, the tincture must be shaken well.
After the specified period, the finished tincture is filtered twice through several layers of gauze and stored in a dark glass container.

Decoction preparation:20 g of crushed root is poured with boiling water and insisted on a boiling water bath for 30 minutes. Then cool, filter and take 1/3 cup 3 times a day.

General contraindications:

Preparations of Eleutherococcus are not recommended for high blood pressure, high temperature, in the acute period of infectious and somatic diseases. It is also not recommended to take Eleutherococcus tincture in the afternoon, because. this can cause insomnia. High doses of eleutherococcus extract can cause insomnia, irritability, and anxiety in people.

Before using any medicinal plants, consult your doctor!

This plant of the Araliaceae family was popularly nicknamed the prickly berry and prickly pepper, probably because of the many thorns with which the branches of this nondescript perennial shrub are generously dotted. Another apt name, "brother of ginseng", he received due to the great similarity of medicinal properties. After all, like ginseng, eleutherococcus is an adaptogen, that is, thanks to it, the overall resistance of the body increases.

It has a straight stem, peculiar leaves and small flowers, placed on long thin pedicels.

On the basis of Eleutherococcus, preparations are made that are widely used in medicine. And it doesn't just heal people. Indeed, for the first time Eleutherococcus attracted the attention of veterinarians in China, Korea, Japan, Indochina and other eastern countries, where this plant has long been considered a universal doctor.

As for Russia, here this plant was not remembered for a long time, although they knew about its healing properties, because all attention was focused on another plant-universal, ginseng. And only when the reserves of the latter were catastrophically depleted, they remembered his "brother". Eleutherococcus is also called Siberian ginseng.

Eleutherococcus composition

Eleutherococcus root and its rhizomes harvested in the autumn are of the greatest importance for medical purposes. They contain a lot of biologically active substances - such as glycosides, otherwise eleutherosides (A, B, C, D, E, F). Moreover, only eleutherosides D and E have been well studied so far. The aglycones (non-carbohydrate part) of these compounds are triterpenes, coumarins, sterols and lignans - mostly phenolic compounds.

Associated substances - essential oil, resins, gums, starch, lipids, proteins and other substances. Their content reaches its maximum in October, before leaf fall.
Eleutherosides B, D, E are present in the underground shoots of Eleutherococcus in very large quantities and are the main active ingredients. Slightly less eleutherosides are concentrated in above-ground shoots.

In addition to these substances, the roots of Eleutherococcus and the stems of the plant contain essential oil (0.8%), flavonoids, coumarin derivatives, alkaloid aralin, pectin substances, resins, gums, anthocyanins. And the leaves and flowers are also derivatives of flavonoids. The leaves also found carotenoids, triterpene compounds, oleic acid, alkaloids. Moreover, unlike other Arali species, Eleutherococcus does not contain saponins.

Useful properties and application of Eleutherococcus

Eleutherococcus is called Siberian or Far Eastern ginseng. Preparations based on it are not just substitutes for the Chinese medicinal root, but also have a number of advantages. They act softer, they can be given to children. The effect of taking Eleutherococcus appears more slowly, but lasts longer than with ginseng treatment.

Eleutherococcus is a natural tonic and energy booster. It accelerates and stimulates all processes in the human body - metabolism, energy production, mental and physical activity. It relieves spasm and tension, accelerates breathing, blood flow and the synthesis of immune bodies. Thanks to the stimulation of recovery processes, Eleutherococcus restores strength to a tired, worn out body, improves immunity and restores youth.

We list when treatment with Eleutheroccus is most effective:

• With nervous overstrain, physical / mental overwork, exhaustion, stress, neurosis, depression, insomnia and even with partial memory loss (amnesia) - Eleutherococcus improves the functioning of the nervous system, reduces nervousness and irritability, raises tone, restores memory. However, an overdose of the drug can cause excessive excitability and insomnia;

• With low immunity - increases resistance to various infections. Medical statistics say that the use of Eleutherococcus after pneumonia reduces the likelihood of a recurrence of the disease by half. Prophylactic administration of Eleutherococcus allows you to live the period of seasonal epidemics without diseases;

• With cardiovascular disorders - stimulates the heart and increases blood pressure. Therefore, Eleutherococcus tincture is indicated for hypotension and is contraindicated for hypertensive patients. And one more thing: the components of the plant cleanse the vessels of cholesterol deposits and thereby make them more elastic;

• In diseases of the liver and gallbladder (inflammation and dyskinesia) - Eleutherococcus improves digestion, improves appetite and absorption of food, and therefore often contributes to weight gain (this has been confirmed more than once during experiments with animals);

• In chronic poisoning - accelerates the removal of toxins and stops their accumulation in the body. Therefore, periodic intake of Eleutherococcus is necessary for residents of industrial cities and megacities, workers in hazardous industries, smokers, drug addicts, and alcoholics. Eleutherococcus is also indicated for those who are exposed to daily radiation;

• In diabetes - lowers blood sugar;

• For gum disease - treats inflammation;

• With hearing and vision impairments, they normalize a person’s ability to distinguish sounds, visually perceive space. Partially restores hearing after damage, reduces muscle spasm of accommodation and thus improves visual acuity. Eleutherococcus improves shadow adaptation (the rate at which the eyes adjust to seeing in the dark);

• With skin problems (oily seborrhea) - treats fungal peeling. In case of injuries (wounds, cuts, abscesses) - limits inflammation and removes infection, accelerates wound healing and restoration of the skin. It is used externally - as compresses, infusions for treating wounds and rinsing;

• With menopause - facilitates the manifestations of hormonal changes (pressure surges, mood changes, changes in body temperature, heart rhythm disturbances);

• With impotence - increases sexual desire;

• With the onset of baldness, they partially restore the hairline, stop hair loss (they affect metabolic processes in the hair roots - bulbs). Treatment of early baldness is an internal intake of Eleutherococcus and external rubbing of the remedy into the scalp between the hairs;

• In case of injuries, it promotes rapid healing - the healing of fractures, the formation of new skin and cartilage tissue. According to medical statistics, the use of Eleutherococcus in traumatic brain injuries accelerates the recovery time by 1.3 - 1.5 times.

Eleutherococcus is widely and effectively used to adapt to various stress factors - climate change, sports loads, attacks of viruses and pathogenic bacteria, as well as to the effects of chemotherapy (in the treatment of cancer) and radiation (in the treatment of acute or chronic radiation sickness).

Due to its adaptive properties, it is often used during the period of preparation for surgical interventions to improve the general condition of the body.

Eleutherococcus is also taken before exams and scientific conferences, while participating in competitions and during dressed up work. It provides clarity of thought and speed of reaction, maintains the physical, mental and mental tone of a person.

Contraindications to the use of Eleutherococcus

Despite its beneficial properties, eleutherococcus has a number of properties that limit or prohibit its use in some cases. Main contraindications:

• plant allergy. It manifests itself in the form of a rash and runny nose, the drug should be stopped immediately;

• Reception of barbiturates and tranquilizers. Double exposure to the nervous system can lead to unpredictable results;

• period of menstruation. The excitability of the nervous system may increase, which will exacerbate the manifestations of PMS;

• Pregnancy and lactation period. Perhaps the appointment of drugs by the attending physician, in small doses and a certain dosage form;

• Age under 12 years old (the effect of the plant on the child's psyche has not been studied);

• Arterial hypertension, vascular pathologies and chronic heart disease. Eleutherococcus causes palpitations and increases blood pressure;

• Insomnia. It has tonic properties, it is not recommended to take it in the evening;

• Increased body temperature;

• Epilepsy, convulsions;

• Cirrhosis of the liver and alcoholism (for alcohol tinctures).

The use of Eleutherococcus in folk medicine

In folk medicine, decoctions, tea leaves, tinctures, extracts, etc. are prepared from the roots and leaves of the plant.

• Welding for colds: 1 teaspoon of crushed plant roots pour 200 milliliters of boiling water and insist for 10 minutes. Drink medicinal tea on an empty stomach or 5 minutes before meals;

• Decoction for bronchitis as an expectorant: pour 50 grams of crushed roots with 1 liter of boiling water and boil for 15 minutes. Allow the product to cool and strain. Take 100 milliliters three times a day;

• Ointment for warts, psoriasis, wounds and eczema: Pass the roots of Eleutherococcus and garlic, taken in equal proportions, through a meat grinder. Add 100 milliliters of melted lard to the mixture and mix everything thoroughly. The resulting mass is kept on a steam bath for 30 minutes, and then allowed to cool. Store the finished product in the refrigerator. Apply the ointment in the form of applications to the problem area. For convenience, the agent can be applied to a gauze cut and fixed on top with adhesive tape. The procedure is carried out 2 times a day until the condition improves;

• Eleutherococcus at low pressure. With hypotension, which is characterized by a fairly steady decrease in blood pressure, various drugs and preparations containing Eleutherococcus are effective. As a rule, an extract or a healing tincture of Eleutherococcus is prescribed. Such drugs have a powerful tonic effect on the entire nervous system, normalizing blood pressure and activating metabolism. The optimal course of treatment is 1 month. It is desirable to use the extract in 20 or 30 drops half an hour before meals in the morning;

Eleutherococcus tea. Dry roots - 2 teaspoons; boiling water - 1 cup. Pour over the roots and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Strain and drink like a tea, up to 3 times a day. This recipe normalizes metabolism, strengthens the immune system, puts the nervous system in order;

Eleutherococcus decoction. Rhizomes - 10 g; calendula flowers - 5 g; boiling water - 0.5 liters. Pour the vegetable mixture with water and put on low heat. Bring to a boil, simmer for 10 minutes, cool and strain. A decoction is useful for hair loss and seborrhea, it is recommended to rub it into the scalp 2 times a week. It also relieves irritation and inflammation on the skin, promotes its healing with burns and wounds. To do this, make compresses on the affected areas, soaking a clean cloth with a decoction. It is better to combine such treatment with the ingestion of the finished extract of Eleutherococcus;

Infusion of Eleutherococcus. Rhizomes - 1 teaspoon; boiling water - 1 cup. Reception of tincture for the treatment of diseases. Pour the roots into a thermos and pour boiling water, leave for 2 - 3 hours. Take 1 teaspoon before meals, 3 times a day. This is another effective recipe for weight loss.

Eleutherococcus in cosmetology

A unique plant has found application in cosmetology.

• Positively affecting the scalp, damaged hair, normalizes fat balance, reduces hair loss, fights seborrhea and baldness.

It is useful to combine external treatment of hair fragility, strengthening of hair follicles with eleutherococcus with the internal use of this remedy. The recommended course is at least a month, the dose is gradually increased from 5 drops to 40 three times a day.

• Eleutherococcus is added to the compositions of therapeutic face masks, creams that improve the complexion, the skin is rejuvenated due to the stimulating effect on blood vessels.

Preparation and storage of Eleutherococcus

Eleutherococcus is harvested using: roots, harvested in autumn; leaves, collection period - spring. Late autumn is the best time for harvesting Eleutherococcus, since it is at this time that the roots of the plant have the maximum content of nutrients.

It is possible to re-produce blanks only 7 years after the previous harvest, since it is by this time that the plant will restore the root system and gain useful substances. It must be remembered that when digging up the roots of a plant, 15–20% of the roots should be left, otherwise Eleutherococcus will not be able to develop normally and give birth.

The roots are cut into pieces and dried either in dryers at 70-80 degrees, or in the attic. Well-harvested and dried raw materials have a long-waved cream or light yellow fracture with a loose middle. Storage is carried out on shelves (not on the floor or ground) in a dry, well-ventilated area.

It should be remembered that storage in plastic bags is strictly prohibited, due to the fact that the plant becomes damp in them, and interacting with the components of polyethylene is converted into poison. So it should be stored in cloth bags.

The leaves are harvested in July, it is at this time, at the time of preparation for flowering, that they contain the maximum amount of useful properties. With proper preparation, packaging and storage, blanks can be stored for 2 to 3 years, and even more.