Eleuthero Root (Eleutherococcus senticosus) — Bulk Dried Herb
Eleuthero Root (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Eleuthero — commonly known as Siberian Ginseng, though botanically distinct from true ginseng — is one of the most extensively studied adaptogenic botanicals in the world. A thorny shrub native to the forests of northeastern Asia, Eleuthero has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over two thousand years and became the subject of intensive scientific research by Soviet scientists during the Cold War era, who were seeking botanical means to enhance the performance and resilience of athletes, cosmonauts, and military personnel.
Our Eleuthero root is certified organic, cut and sifted to preserve its full botanical character.
Botanical Profile
- Botanical Name: Eleutherococcus senticosus (syn. Acanthopanax senticosus)
- Family: Araliaceae (Ginseng family)
- Common Names: Eleuthero, Siberian Ginseng, Ci Wu Jia (TCM), Devil's Shrub, Touch-Me-Not
- Plant Part Used: Root and rhizome
- Preparation: Cut & Sifted
- Cultivation: Certified Organic
- Origin: Siberia / Northeast Asia
- Appearance: Pale to tan fibrous root pieces
- Aroma: Mildly earthy, slightly woody, faintly sweet
- Flavor Profile: Mildly bitter, slightly sweet, earthy
About the Plant
Native to the mixed and coniferous forests of northeastern China, Korea, Japan, and the Russian Far East, Eleutherococcus senticosus is a deciduous shrub that grows to 2–3 meters in height, producing palmate leaves, small clusters of violet flowers, and dark berries. The plant is armed with numerous fine spines along its stems. It belongs to the Araliaceae family — the same family as true ginseng (Panax ginseng) — and shares some botanical similarities, though it is a distinct genus and species. In TCM it is known as Ci Wu Jia and has been used for over 2,000 years as a tonic botanical. Soviet research on Eleuthero beginning in the 1950s under Dr. Israel Brekhman led to the formal development of the adaptogen concept in botanical medicine.
Traditional Context
Eleuthero has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over two millennia, classified as a Qi and Yang tonic that supports the Spleen and Kidney meridians. It appears in classical TCM texts and was used by the indigenous peoples of northeastern Asia. In the 20th century it became one of the most extensively researched botanicals in the world, with Soviet scientists conducting thousands of studies on its properties. It was used by Soviet Olympic athletes, cosmonauts, and military personnel and remains one of the most popular adaptogenic botanicals in contemporary Western and Eastern herbal practice.
Suggested Preparations
- Decoctions: Simmer 1–2 teaspoons of root in 2 cups of water for 15–20 minutes
- Tinctures: Well-suited for alcohol extraction
- Herbal Blends: Pairs beautifully with Astragalus, Schisandra, Reishi, and Rhodiola in adaptogenic formulas
- Capsules & Powders: Ground root suitable for encapsulation
Quality & Sourcing
- ✓ Certified Organic
- ✓ Identity Verified
- ✓ Ethically Sourced
- ✓ Small Batch
- ✓ No Additives or Fillers
Storage
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark, dry place. Properly stored, dried Eleuthero root maintains its quality for 2–3 years.
A Note on Use
This product is sold as a botanical ingredient for educational and traditional use. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a health condition.
Every purchase supports Twin Dragons Botanical Institute’s mission of botanical conservation, responsible sourcing, and the preservation of plant knowledge for future generations.