Evidence supporting the use of: Ginseng, Siberian
For the health condition: Mental Illness
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Russia and China, as an adaptogen—a substance believed to help the body resist physical, chemical, and biological stressors. In the context of mental illness, traditional practitioners have recommended Siberian ginseng to improve stamina, reduce fatigue, and enhance cognitive performance, especially under conditions of stress or exhaustion. However, the traditional use is not specifically targeted at treating psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia, but rather at improving general resilience and mental function.
Scientific evidence directly supporting the use of Siberian ginseng for mental illness is limited and of low quality. A small number of studies have explored its potential effects on cognitive function and fatigue, sometimes reporting mild improvements in mental performance or subjective well-being in healthy individuals or those experiencing fatigue. However, rigorous clinical trials specifically evaluating Siberian ginseng as a treatment for clinically diagnosed mental illnesses are lacking. Systematic reviews consistently note the absence of strong, high-quality evidence supporting its efficacy for psychiatric conditions. Thus, while traditional use for general mental support is documented, scientific validation for its use in mental illness remains weak.
Other health conditions supported by Ginseng, Siberian
Adrenal FatigueAging (prevention)
Athletic and Exercise Aids
Body Building
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Circulation (poor)
Concentration (poor)
Convalescence
Debility
Depression
Digestion (poor)
Endurance (lack of)
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Hypertension
Inflammation
Memory and Brain Function
Mental Illness
Metabolic Syndrome
Muscle Tone (lack of)
Nervous Exhaustion
Nervousness
Pain (general remedies for)
Stress
Worry