Biologically active substances of some medicinal plants (ginseng, rhodiola, eleutherococcus, etc.) classified as adaptogens possess a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties. In additional to influencing the central nervous system (antistressor, psychotonic, and nootropic effects), these substances also affect various internal organs. The present review of published data shows that, in particular, ginseng root preparations possess pronounced antidiabetic properties and, hence, can be more widely used in clinical endocrinology.