Eleuthero Plus contains: Eleutherococcus Senticosus Root, Astragalus Root, Eucommia Bark, Morinda Root, Psoralea Fruit and Tang Kuei Root

Eleutherococcus Senticosus Root (which we’ll abbreviate as Eleuthero) is an herb that's in the same family as Chinese Ginseng. It’s traditionally known as an herb that preserves good health rather than an ingredient that treats ailments. Some studies have suggested that it may stimulate a person’s resistance to stress. According to the company, Eleuthero “may promote healthier immune function and offer protection against colds and viruses because it is rich in complex polysaccharides.” Astralagus Root has been used in Chinese medicine for hundreds of years to boost the immune system and treat a wide assortment of ailments.

Morinda Root (also known as Noni) has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, analgesic and immunity-boosting properties, and is also traditionally used in Chinese medicine. Psoralea Fruit, yet another Chinese-medicine staple, has long been used to treat disorders related to skin pigmentation, hair loss and impotence, incontinence, asthma and diarrhea.

Eleuthero Plus claims to do double duty as an immunity booster and as an agent that provides assistance in keeping stress levels in check. The website cites a December 2001 study from a journal called Acta Pharmacologica Sinica in which the formula’s primary ingredient is credited as being an "adaptogen" agent—suggesting it helps the body adapt to stressful situations. “This, in turn, may give your energy a boost as well as improve mental and physical vitality,” theorize the manufacturers.

While this is an intriguing formulation that consists largely of herbs and ingredients that hail from “traditional”, centuries-old Chinese medicine, it seems to hold more promise as an immunity booster than as an anti-stress antidote, though it certainly cannot be argued that an improved immunity response will naturally translate to better stress-coping mechanisms. There is also some concern about these ingredients, many of which haven’t been thoroughly studied in clinical settings. There have been reports in the United Kingdom about severe burns resulting from both internal and external use of Psoralea Fruit, one of the ingredients in Eleuthero Plus, though amounts have not been specified and it should not automatically be inferred that the quantities in this formula are hazardous.

• May have positive immunity-boosting effects
• Capsule form
• May be appealing to those interested in traditional Chinese medicine

• Not advised to be taken during pregnancy or lactation
• May cause unwanted drug interactions with some medicines
• Does not proven mood-balancing agents like the natural mineral lithium
• No customer testimonials

Customers in the market for specific mood-enhancing benefits (rather than more general immunity-boosting perks) might not want to take a chance with this formula. We also strongly urge seeking out manufacturers who offer a free trial of their product, as well as clearly documented features and mechanisms such as a Micro Vortex Enteric Coating to boost absorption and maintain the integrity of the active ingredients.