Evidence supporting the use of: Eleuthero
For the body system: Cortisol

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as Siberian ginseng, has a long history of use in traditional medicine as an adaptogen—substances believed to help the body adapt to stress. Adaptogens are traditionally thought to modulate the stress response, which involves the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the secretion of cortisol, a key stress hormone. Scientific studies have investigated eleuthero’s potential effects on fatigue, stress, and immune function. Some preclinical and small human studies suggest eleuthero may modulate the HPA axis and support the body’s response to stress, potentially influencing cortisol levels. For example, animal and in vitro studies have shown eleuthero can affect adrenal gland function and stress hormone regulation. However, the number and quality of human clinical trials are limited, and results are mixed regarding its impact on measurable cortisol levels in humans.

Overall, while eleuthero is often marketed for “adrenal support” and to help balance cortisol, the scientific evidence supporting its direct effect on the cortisol system in humans is modest and not definitive. The majority of evidence comes from traditional use and preliminary research, with few rigorous, large-scale clinical trials specifically demonstrating significant cortisol modulation. Thus, eleuthero’s use for supporting the cortisol body system is justified to some extent by scientific evidence, but the overall strength of that evidence is rated as 2 out of 5.

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