Also known as “Siberian ginseng,” eleuthero has been used for thousands of years to fight illnesses associated with microbial infections and increase quality of life. It is immune amphoteric. Offering similar properties to Rhodiola (discussed in Appendix A), the two can be used together or interchangeably; eleuthero, however, may have more potent antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Adaptogenic, eleuthero improves stress resistance in all systems of the body. It restores normal adrenal function and normalizes immune function in the face of stress. It is protective against radiation and is liver protective. Adaptogen with antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Suggested dosage: Herb extract 50-200 mg twice daily (1:1 tincture, Russian extraction, from the root, 15 drops to 1 tsp twice daily can also be used, but it is very stimulating).

Side effects: The primary limiting factor of eleuthero is stimulation. Though it is a wonderful herb, most people with fibromyalgia can only take small amounts of it, if they can take it at all. Otherwise, the herb is well tolerated and has low toxicity.