A relative of the more famous red ginseng, Eleuthero has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine since about 190 AD. It became a widely cultivated herb after its use as an adaptogen (an herb that helps the body adapt to stress) was discovered in the 1940's. Eleuthero is regarded as an herbal remedy that increases energy, boosts the immune system, and helps alleviate general fatigue. Eleuthero may lower blood sugar, slow blood clotting, and induce sleepiness and drowsiness. Exercise caution if you take drugs that have similar effects. Like its distant cousin, ginseng, the herb must be taken regularly over an extended period of time in order to have an effect. Holistic doctors may recommend eleuthero to people who are run-down, weak, lacking in energy, or who suffer from chronic illness. An excellent addition to medicinal herbal tea blends, Eleuthero is also suitable for daily use.