10 Possible Side Effects Of Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)

Eleutherococcus senticosus has some side effects when used improperly, such as dizziness, insomnia, and digestive problems.

These side effects may be caused by excessive consumption or interactions with medications. For instance, a person suffering from high blood pressure may experience worsened hypertension due to Eleutherococcus senticosus, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues or even a heart attack.

Additionally, its overuse may exacerbate existing anxiety or depression.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Eleutherococcus senticosus if used imporperly.

1. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, increases blood pressure by stimulating the body's stress response and releasing adrenaline, a hormone that constricts blood vessels.

This can lead to a temporary increase in blood pressure, which may be more pronounced in individuals who are already experiencing stress or anxiety.

Additionally, Eleutherococcus senticosus can also enhance the effects of other herbs that stimulate the nervous system, further contributing to increased blood pressure.

2. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, causes dizziness attacks in some individuals due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system and increase cortisol levels.

The herb's stimulating effects can lead to an overload of sensory information, causing dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when taken in large doses or combined with other stimulants.

Additionally, Eleutherococcus senticosus may also exacerbate existing anxiety or stress disorders, further contributing to the occurrence of dizziness attacks.

3. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, stimulates heartbeat irregularly due to its ability to increase blood pressure and heart rate.

This is because the plant contains compounds that have a stimulating effect on the cardiovascular system, including eleutherosides, which can cause an increase in cardiac output and peripheral resistance.

As a result, individuals may experience arrhythmias or other forms of abnormal heartbeat.

4. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, produces nausea symptoms in some individuals.

This side effect is thought to occur due to the plant's ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and increase gut motility, leading to feelings of discomfort and queasiness. Additionally, Eleutherococcus senticosus can cause a rise in cortisol levels, which may exacerbate nausea and stomach upset.

The exact mechanisms behind these effects are not fully understood, but it is believed that the plant's saponin and polyphenol compounds play a role.

5. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, induces allergic reactions due to its cross-reactivity with other plants in the Araliaceae family.

This can cause an immune response that triggers symptoms such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing. The allergenic compounds present in Eleutherococcus senticosus, including polyacetylenes and sesquiterpenes, may also bind to proteins on skin cells, leading to the development of an allergic response.

As a result, individuals with pre-existing allergies or sensitivities may experience adverse reactions when using this herb.

6. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, triggers insomnia problems due to its stimulating properties that can increase alertness and energy.

The herb contains compounds like eleutherosides, which can affect the body's cortisol levels, leading to restlessness and difficulty falling asleep.

Additionally, some people may experience a sense of jitteriness or anxiety when using Eleutherococcus senticosus, making it challenging to wind down at night and inducing insomnia issues.

7. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, reduces potassium levels by interfering with the kidneys' ability to retain this essential mineral.

As a result, the body's natural balance of electrolytes is disrupted, which can lead to various physiological effects including muscle weakness, fatigue, and cardiac arrhythmias.

This side effect occurs due to the herb's saponin content, which competes with potassium for absorption in the gut and increases its excretion through urination.

8. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, raises liver enzymes.

This is due to its ability to stimulate the production of certain enzymes in the liver, which can increase the breakdown and elimination of toxins from the body.

As a result, it may cause an increase in liver function markers, such as ALT and AST, although these elevations are usually mild and reversible.

9. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, increases urinary frequency due to its stimulatory effect on the kidneys and bladder.

The herb's active compounds, such as eleutherosides and sesquiterpenoids, can enhance renal function and increase urine production, leading to an urge to urinate more frequently.

Additionally, Eleutherococcus senticosus may also stimulate the nervous system, which can contribute to increased urinary frequency by causing the bladder muscles to contract more frequently.

10. Affects mental clarity

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, enhances anxiety feelings due to its ability to stimulate the body's stress response and increase cortisol production.

As a result, some individuals may experience increased nervousness, jitteriness, or an overall sense of heightened alertness.

This is because Eleutherococcus senticosus contains adaptogenic compounds that can amplify the body's natural response to stressors, leading to an intensification of anxiety feelings in susceptible individuals.