not a true ginseng and contains entirely different bioactive compounds.

the European Medicines Agency recognized the root for traditional use in relieving symptoms of asthenia (tiredness and weakness) in adults and adolescents over 12, with treatment not to exceed two months.

syringin (eleutheroside B) has an insulinotropic effect, enhances secretion of β-endorphin from adrenal medulla, and stimulates peripheral opioid receptors resulting in decreased plasma glucose. eleutherosides in forced swimming tests lowered plasma triglycerides, lactate dehydrogenase, and blood urea nitrogen compared to controls.

eleutheroside E is responsible for antifatigue properties — forced swimming, stress-induced immune downregulation, and cortisol elevation are inhibited by eleutheroside E administration.

increases natural killer cell activity, and enhances interferon production.

ciwujianosides stabilize mast cells, reducing allergic and inflammatory histamine release. documented use for chemotherapy-suppressed immune function.

used for upper respiratory infection, common cold, and pneumonia.

eleutheroside B specifically shows documented activity against RNA viruses including influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human rhinovirus in vitro — the mechanism involves inhibition of viral attachment and replication rather than direct virucidal activity.

potential anxiolytic and antidepressive effects. reduces neuroinflammatory signaling.

active compounds from the roots protect against amyloid-induced neuritic atrophy.

methanolic extract showed concentration-dependent inhibitory activity against A-549 small cell lung cancer, XWLC-05 Yunnan lung cancer, and HCT-116 human colon cancer cell lines. evidence that polysaccharide fraction may possess both immunostimulatory and antitumor effects, particularly relevant for lung cancer patients experiencing fatigue.

stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells. reduces blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetic models. additionally documented for lipid-lowering effects and improving endurance metabolism.

also used for allergic rhinitis, peripheral edema, hyperlipidemia, dyslipidemia, male infertility, osteoporosis, stroke recovery, depression, bipolar disorder, cognitive performance, athletic performance, and familial Mediterranean fever.