Findings of Russian literature on the clinical application of Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.): A narrative review.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim (ES) (syn.

Clinician perspectives and understanding of the adaptogenic concept: A focus group study with Naturopaths and Western Herbalists.

Background: Herbal adaptogens are plant medicines which have traditional associations with herbal 'tonics' and promote homeostasis and non-specifically increase resistance to stress. Current definitions of adaptogens have been derived from extensive laboratory research, however there has not been sufficient clinical data for the concept to be standardised by regulatory bodies in Europe or Australia, nor is there clarity around how adaptogens are used and understood by herbalist clinicians themselves. This study aimed to identify how Australian Naturopaths measure adaptogenic activity relative to the clinical outcomes they aim to achieve.

A Critical Review to Identify the Domains Used to Measure the Effect and Outcome of Adaptogenic Herbal Medicines.

: Phytoadaptogens are considered to be herbal medicines with a multi-target effect that strengthen organ systems compromised by stress. Although animal and laboratory studies have identified numerous molecular targets associated with adaptogenic activity, the non-specific characteristic of these herbal medicines has meant there is no known methods to accurately determine efficacy of adaptogens in humans. This critical review of the evidence aims to identify domains which have been used to measure the effect of adaptogens in humans, in order to create pathways for translating laboratory, animal, and clinical studies on adaptogens into practical applications in the future.

A naturalistic study of herbal medicine for self-reported depression and/or anxiety a protocol.

Background: Mental health conditions including anxiety and depression account for around 8% of the global disease burden. Anxiety and depression often coexist and impose a high individual and social burden. Patients with mental and behavioural conditions may be at increased risk of co-morbidities and are often high health-care utilisers.