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“The Ultimate Guide to Eleuthero: Unlocking the Secrets of This Ancient Herb”

11 September, 2024

In Vietnam, a recent trend has emerged with people cultivating and purchasing Polyscias fruticosa (also known as the “ding lang” or “umbrella tree”) for its medicinal properties. This versatile plant is valued by both the rich and poor alike. Growing Polyscias fruticosa indoors offers a multitude of benefits, from using its leaves to make tea, to incorporating them as a culinary herb in dishes such as fish stew, spring rolls, salads, and even consuming them fresh. When it comes to harvesting the roots of Polyscias fruticosa, timing is crucial as the active compounds in the plant depend on its age.

In traditional East Asian medicine, Polyscias fruticosa has long been revered as a precious herb. According to the Vietnamese herbal dictionary, the roots of this plant possess a neutral nature, a sweet taste, and a plethora of therapeutic effects, including tonic benefits for the five vital organs, detoxification, blood enrichment, lactation stimulation, and digestive aid. Additionally, it serves as a potent energizer, making it an ideal remedy for treating physical weakness and poor digestion.

How long should you grow Polyscias fruticosa before harvesting?

Similar to ginseng, Polyscias fruticosa is believed to require a certain maturity to unlock its full medicinal potential. The younger the plant, the less potent its therapeutic properties. Given its slow growth rate, patience is essential when cultivating this herb. Based on the collective experience of many growers, it is recommended to allow Polyscias fruticosa to reach at least three years of age before considering harvesting. The roots are believed to attain their peak medicinal value between five and ten years after planting, boasting the highest concentration of beneficial compounds. Beyond this period, the plant enters a state of decline, with the roots becoming increasingly gnarled and the nutrients diminishing.

Three-year-old *Polyscias fruticosa* possesses elevated medicinal properties

However, it is worth noting that some individuals still opt for older Polyscias fruticosa roots to cater to consumer preferences for more aesthetically pleasing shapes. Consequently, older roots often command higher prices in the market, despite potentially offering lower medicinal efficacy compared to younger, optimally aged roots.

Tips for selecting Polyscias fruticosa roots

Polyscias fruticosa can be categorized into two varieties based on leaf size: large-leaf and small-leaf. The small-leaf variety, known as “ding lang nep,” is considered more aromatic and medicinally potent. When choosing Polyscias fruticosa roots, examine the remaining leaves at the top of the plant. If given a choice between equally aged plants, opt for the small-leaf variety as it tends to be more valuable and nutrient-dense, despite its lower yield.

Older *Polyscias fruticosa* roots exhibit darker colors and a more rugged appearance

When selecting Polyscias fruticosa roots, pay attention to the color as an indicator of age. Older roots tend to have a darker hue, and their primary roots are generally thicker and longer compared to younger ones. Opt for roots with a golden straw color, a pleasant aroma, and a soft, moist texture. The most valuable portion of the root lies between the main root and the stem, and it is common to cut a 10-15 cm segment from this area for wine infusion, along with the roots. Avoid overly knotted and dark-colored roots, unless your selection criteria are primarily based on their unique appearance.

For those seeking aesthetically pleasing roots with intricate root systems for decorative or carving purposes, Polyscias fruticosa aged between eight and ten years, or even older, would be ideal. However, if you are simply interested in their medicinal benefits, roots between the ages of six and eight are generally recommended.

Frequently asked questions

Eleuthero, also known as Siberian Ginseng, is an ancient herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Russian medicine. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is native to Eastern Asia, particularly Russia, Japan, and Korea.

Eleuthero is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and promotes homeostasis. It supports the immune system, improves mental performance and physical endurance, and reduces fatigue. The active compounds in Eleuthero, such as eleutherosides and polysaccharides, are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects.

Eleuthero supplements offer a range of potential benefits, including enhanced mental clarity and focus, increased energy and stamina, improved immune function, reduced stress and anxiety, and better endurance during physical activity. It is also believed to support healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

While Eleuthero is generally considered safe for adults when taken in appropriate doses, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any underlying health conditions.

Eleuthero is typically well-tolerated, but some possible side effects include insomnia, headaches, and digestive issues. It may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and diabetes drugs. Therefore, it is always advisable to seek medical advice before consuming Eleuthero or any other herbal supplement.

Eleuthero supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, tinctures, and powdered extracts. It is recommended to follow the dosage instructions on the product label or consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Consistency is key when taking Eleuthero, as regular use over time is believed to provide the most beneficial effects.