Ginseng tea, just like ginseng supplements and extracts, is used to improve your mental power and memory. When making the tea, first choose the type of ginseng you want to use: American which is better during hotter months or Korean better during colder months.

You can buy ginseng tea bags from your local food store, but making it yourself from the root of the plant is the most beneficial form. Proper dosing is an important factor for ginseng use.

The following ginseng doses have been studied in scientific research:. The side effects from ginseng are generally mild in healthy adults. It can act as a stimulant in some people, so it may cause nervousness and insomnia especially in large doses.

Long-term use or high doses may cause headaches, dizziness and stomachaches. Women who use it regularly may experience menstrual changes and vaginal bleeding, and there have also been some reports of allergic reactions to the herb.

Given the lack of evidence about its safety, ginseng is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can interact with warfarin coumadin and some medicines for depression. There is some concern that Panax increases symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as MS, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, so patients with those conditions should consult with their doctors before and while taking this supplement.

People who have had organ transplants may not want to take it because it could increase the risk of organ rejection. Ginseng may interact with female hormone-sensitive illnesses, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis and uterine fibroids, because it has estrogen-like effects.

Research shows that excessive use can lead to ginseng abuse syndrome , which has been associated with:. To avoid side effects from this herb, some experts suggest not taking it for more than three to six months at a time. If need be, your doctor may recommend that you take a break and then begin to take it again for a few weeks or months.

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Axe on Instagram K Followers. Axe on Youtube 2. Ginseng is safe to consume. Ginseng can have a very strong effect, both positive and negative.

Always talk to your doctor before adding ginseng, or any other supplement, into your vitamin routine. Tespo has a full range of supplement pods to support your nutrient needs. Personalized vitamins give you, and only you, exactly what your body craves. Get a perfect vitamin serving every time with the Tespo Connect dispenser.

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Types Of Ginseng Ginseng comes in many different forms. Some of the most popular types of ginseng are: Korean ginseng : This type is also called red ginseng and allegedly has the best medicinal properties.

It can help with metabolism, and cells in the body. Korean, or red ginseng, is the original and oldest form used. Blood-thinning medications anticoagulants. One small study suggested that American ginseng might decrease the effectiveness of warfarin Coumadin , a blood-thinning medication.

If you take any blood-thinning medications, talk to your doctor before taking ginseng. MAOIs monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Ginseng may increase the risk of side effects when taken with MAOIs, a type of antidepressant. There have been reports of interaction between ginseng and phenelzine Nardil causing headaches, tremors, and mania.

MAOIs include:. Antipsychotic medications. American ginseng may increase the effects of medications used to treat psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. So they should not be taken together. Ginseng may increase the stimulant effect and side effects of some medications taken for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD , including amphetamine and dextroamphetamine Adderall and methylphenidate Concerta, Ritalin.

Adams LL, Gatchel RJ. Complementary and alternative medicine: applications and implications for cognitive functioning in elderly populations.

Alt Ther. Andrade AS, Hendrix C, Parsons TL, et al. Pharmacokinetic and metabolic effects of American ginseng Panax quinquefolius in healthy volunteers receiving the HIV protease inhibitor indinavir. BMC Complement Altern Med.

Ang-Lee MK, Moss J, Yuan C-S. Herbal medicines and perioperative care. Banz WJ, Iqbal MJ, Bollaert M, et al. Ginseng modifies the diabetic phenotype and genes associated with diabetes in the male ZDF rat. Barton DL, Soori GS, Bauer BA, et al. Pilot study of Panax quinquefolius American ginseng to improve cancer-related fatigue: a randomized, double-blind, dose-finding evaluation: NCCTG trial N03CA.

Support Care Cancer. Biondo PD, Robbins SJ, Walsh JD, McCargar LJ, Harber VJ, Field CJ. A randomized controlled crossover trial of the effect of ginseng consumption on the immune response to moderate exercise in healthy sedentary men.

Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. Carai MAM, Agabio R, Bombardelli E, et al. Potential use of medicinal plants in the treatment of alcoholism. Dey L, Xie JT, Wang A, et al. Anti-hyperglycemic effects of ginseng: comparison between root and berry. Dougherty U, Mustafi R, Wang Y, et al.

American ginseng suppresses Western diet-promoted tumorigenesis in model of inflammation-associated colon cancer: role of EGFR. Fu Y, Ji LL. Chronic ginseng consumption attenuates age-associated oxidative stress in rats.

J Nutr. Harkey MR, Henderson GL, Gershwin ME, et al. Variability in commercial ginseng products: an analysis of 25 preparations.

Am J Clin Nutr. Heck AM, DeWitt BA, Lukes AL. Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. Am J Health Syst Pharm.

Hsu CC, Ho MC, Lin LC, et al. American ginseng supplementation attenuates creatine kinase level induced by submaximal exercise in human beings. World J Gastroenterol. Ichikawa T, Li J, Nagarkatti P, et al. j Ethnopharmocal. Izzo AA, Ernst E.

Interactions between herbal medicines and prescribed drugs: a systematic review. Karmazyn M, Moey M, Gan XT. Therapeutic potential of ginseng in the management of cardiovascular disorders.

King ML, Adler SR, Murphy LL. Extraction-dependent effects of American ginseng Panax quinquefolium on human breast cancer cell proliferation and estrogen receptor activation.

Integr Cancer Ther. LaValle JB, Krinsky DL, Hawkins EB, et al. Natural Therapeutics Pocket Guide. Hudson, OH: LexiComp; Lee NH, Son CG. Systematic review of randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of ginseng.

J Acupunct Meridian Stud. Li XL, Wang CZ, Sun S, et al. American ginseng berry enhances chemopreventive effect of 5-FU on human colorectal cancer cells. Oncol Rep. Luo X, Wang CZ, Chen J, et al. Characterization of gene expression regulated by American ginseng and ginsenoside Rg3 in human colorectal cancer cells.

Int J Oncol. Lyon MR, Cline JC, Totosy de Zepetnek J, et al. Effect of the herbal extract combination Panax quinquefolium and Ginkgo biloba on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a pilot study. J Psychiatry Neurosci.

McElhaney JE, Goel V, Toane B, et al. Efficacy of COLD-fX in the prevention of respiratory symptoms in community-dwelling adults: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med. Mantle D, Lennard TWJ, Pickering AT.

Therapeutic applications of medicinal plants in the treatment of breast cancer: a review of their pharmacology, efficacy and tolerability.

The cell cycle is the process by which cells normally grow and divide. Ginsenosides could benefit this cycle by preventing abnormal cell production and growth 25 , Ginseng may also help improve the health of people undergoing chemotherapy and could reduce side effects and enhance the effect of some cancer treatments However, while studies on the role of ginseng in cancer prevention show some benefits, they remain inconclusive Ginsenosides in ginseng seem to regulate inflammation, provide antioxidant protection, and maintain the health of cells, which could help decrease the risk of certain kinds of cancer.

Nevertheless, more research is needed. Ginseng has been shown to help ease fatigue and increase energy levels. Various animal studies have linked some components in ginseng, like polysaccharides and oligopeptides, with lower oxidative stress and higher energy production in cells, which could help decrease fatigue 28 , One review of 10 studies concluded that ginseng could significantly improve symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome compared to a placebo, even after just 15 days Another review showed that taking American or Asian ginseng could decrease symptoms of cancer-related fatigue when taken in doses of 2, mg or 3, mg per day, respectively Furthermore, a review of over studies suggested that ginseng supplements may not only help reduce fatigue but could also enhance physical performance Ginseng may help fight fatigue and enhance physical performance by lowering oxidative damage and increasing energy production in cells.

Ginseng seems to be beneficial in the control of blood sugar levels in people both with and without diabetes American and Asian ginseng have been shown to improve pancreatic cell function, boost insulin production, and enhance the uptake of blood sugar in tissues Moreover, studies show that ginseng extracts help by providing antioxidant protection that can help reduce free radicals in the cells of those with diabetes One review of eight studies found that ginseng supplementation could decrease fasting blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes, but it did not significantly reduce hemoglobin A1C levels, which are an average of blood glucose over 3 months.

Another 8-week study showed that taking 3 g per day of American ginseng significantly reduced fasting blood sugar levels The study showed ginseng improved hemoglobin A1c , a marker of long-term blood sugar control, compared to a placebo in people with type 2 diabetes but larger studies using standardized preparations of ginseng are needed to verify these results It seems that fermented red ginseng could be even more effective at blood sugar control.

Fermented ginseng is produced with the help of live bacteria that transform the ginsenosides into a more easily absorbed and potent form In fact, an older study demonstrated that taking 2.

Ginseng, particularly fermented red ginseng, may help increase insulin production, enhance blood sugar uptake in cells, and provide antioxidant protection. Ginseng root can be consumed in many ways. It can be eaten raw or you can lightly steam it to soften it. It can also be stewed in water to make a tea.

To do this, just add hot water to freshly sliced ginseng and let it steep for several minutes. Ginseng can be added to various recipes like soups and stir-fried dishes, too. Additionally, the extract can be found in powder, tablet, capsule, and oil forms.

How much you should take depends on the condition you want to improve. Overall, daily doses of 1—2 g of raw ginseng root or — mg of extract are suggested. Ginseng can be eaten raw, made into tea or added to various dishes.

It can also be consumed as a powder, capsule, or oil. According to research, ginseng appears to be safe and should not produce any serious adverse effects 39 , However, people taking diabetes medications should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when using ginseng to ensure these levels do not go too low.

Additionally, ginseng may reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulant drugs Note that due to the lack of safety studies, ginseng is not recommended for children or people who are pregnant or breastfeeding Lastly, there is evidence suggesting that the extended use of ginseng could decrease its effectiveness in the body.

To maximize its benefits, you should take ginseng in 2—3-week cycles with a one or two week break in between While ginseng appears to be safe, people taking certain medications should pay attention to possible drug interactions.

Ginseng is an herbal supplement that has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine. It is commonly touted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

It could also help regulate blood sugar levels and have benefits for certain types of cancer. Ginseng can be consumed raw or lightly steamed. So it is not always possible to say whether ginseng by itself produced the results. Research on Asian ginseng has included the following conditions:.

It has been said that Asian ginseng boosts the immune system, which might help the body fight off infection and disease. The best evidence is that it may help reduce your risk of getting a cold or flu.

Studies have found that ginseng seems to increase the number of immune cells in the blood and improve the immune system's response to a flu vaccine. In one study, people got either ginseng or placebo for 12 weeks, and got a flu vaccine after 4 weeks.

The number of colds and flu were two-thirds lower in the group that took ginseng. Two studies found that ginseng lowered the chance of getting a cold. In one double-blind, placebo-controlled study of people, those who took mg of ginseng daily for 4 months had fewer colds.

When they did get a cold, it was less severe and shorter than the colds of people who took placebo. Asian ginseng seems to be an antioxidant. Antioxidants help rid the body of free radicals, which are substances that can damage DNA and contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.

Preliminary studies suggest Asian ginseng may improve the symptoms of heart disease in people. It also may decrease LDL bad cholesterol levels and raise HDL good cholesterol. Asian ginseng's effect on blood pressure is more complicated. Some studies suggest it lowers blood pressure while others found that it causes blood pressure to rise.

This has led researchers to question if ginseng increases blood pressure at usual doses, but lowers it when doses are higher. Until researchers know for sure, you should not take ginseng if you have high blood pressure unless your doctor tells you it is OK.

Although American ginseng has been studied more for diabetes, both types of Panax ginsengs may lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, in a few studies it looked like Asian or Korean ginseng raised blood sugar levels.

Some people think that the ginsenosides in American ginseng might lower blood sugar while different ginsenosides in Asian ginseng could raise blood sugar levels.

Until researchers know more, you should not take ginseng if you have diabetes without your doctor's supervision and monitoring. People who take ginseng often say they feel more alert. Several studies report that Asian ginseng may slightly improve thinking or learning.

Early research shows that Asian ginseng may improve performance on such things as mental arithmetic, concentration, memory, and other measures. Some studies have also found a positive effect with the combination of Asian ginseng and Ginkgo biloba.

Most of the studies have found that ginseng does improve mental performance. But they have measured different kinds of mental function. That makes it hard to know exactly what the effects of ginseng are.

For example, one study found that people who took ginseng increased their ability for abstract thought. But it did not create any changes in their reaction time or concentration levels. There have been a number of studies using Asian ginseng for athletic performance in people and laboratory animals.

Results have been mixed, with some studies showing better strength and endurance, others showing improved agility or reaction time, and others showing no effect at all. Even so, athletes often take Asian ginseng to boost both endurance and strength. Asian ginseng was also found to reduce fatigue in a study of people.

Asian ginseng is sometimes credited with helping the body deal with physical or mental stress. While these properties can be difficult to study, there is some evidence that ginseng both Asian and American can improve quality of life, although quality of life can be hard to measure, too.

A study of men and women living in Mexico City found better quality of life measures energy, sleep, sex life, personal satisfaction, and well-being in those taking Asian ginseng.

Another well-designed study found that people who took a nutritional supplement with ginseng said they had better quality of life than those taking the same supplement without ginseng. Asian ginseng is widely believed to boost sexual performance.

But there are not many studies to back this up. In animal studies, Asian ginseng has increased sperm production, sexual activity, and sexual performance. A study of 46 men has also shown an increase in sperm count as well as motility. Another study in 60 men found that Asian ginseng increased sex drive and decreased erection problems.

Also, in one study of 45 men, those who took mg of Korean ginseng 3 times per day for 8 weeks had less trouble getting an erection than those who took placebo. Several studies suggest that Asian ginseng may reduce the risk of some types of cancers.

In one observational study, researchers followed 4, people for 5 years. They found that those who took ginseng had lower risks of lung, liver, pancreatic, ovarian, and stomach cancers. But the study could not be sure that other things, including healthy eating habits, were responsible for the lower risk of cancer.

The study also found that taking ginseng only 3 times a year led to a big reduction in cancer risk. Several studies suggest that Asian ginseng slows down or stops the growth of tumors, although researchers are not yet sure how it might work in humans.

More research is needed. There have been only a few studies of ginseng for menopausal symptoms. Two well-designed studies evaluating red Korean Asian ginseng suggest it may relieve some of the symptoms of menopause, improving sense of well-being and mood, particularly feelings of depression.

People took ginseng along with a vitamin and mineral supplement. Other studies show no effect. The ginseng plant has leaves that grow in a circle around a straight stem.

Yellowish-green, umbrella-shaped flowers grow in the center and produce red berries. Ginseng has a taproot that looks a little like the human body, with 2 "arms" and 2 "legs. Ginseng is not ready to be used as medicine until it has grown for about 6 years.

Asian or Chinese and Korean ginseng are the same plants, but grown in different areas. American ginseng is a relative of the same species, native to North America. Asian ginseng supplements are made from the ginseng root, and the long, thin offshoots, called root hairs.

Both Asian or Korean and American ginseng have ginsenosides, saponins that are ginseng's active ingredients. Asian ginseng also contains glycans panaxans , polysaccharide fraction DPG, peptides, maltol, B vitamins, flavonoids, and volatile oil.

White ginseng dried, peeled or red ginseng unpeeled root, steamed before drying is available in water, water-and-alcohol, or alcohol liquid extracts, and in powders or capsules. Asian ginseng root is also available for making decoctions boiling the root in water.

Read the label carefully to make sure you get the type of ginseng you want. If you are looking for Asian ginseng, make sure you buy Korean, red, or Panax ginseng.

If you are looking for American ginseng, you should buy Panax quinquefolius. Eleuthero Eleutherococcus senticosus , which is sometimes called Siberian ginseng, does not have the same active ingredients as Asian or American ginseng.

Asian ginseng comes in different forms and is often used in combination with other herbs or nutrients. Talk with an experienced health care practitioner to find the right dose for you.

Healthy people who want to boost physical or mental performance, prevent illness, or better resist stress should take Asian ginseng in cycles.

For example, take every day for 2 to 3 weeks, then stop for 3 weeks, then start back. The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. However, herbs can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care under the supervision of a health care provider, qualified in the field of botanical medicine.

Asian ginseng should not be taken continuously; take periodic breaks and consult a trained herbal prescriber if you are considering long-term use. Asian ginseng may cause nervousness or sleeplessness, especially if taken at high doses or combined with caffeine. Other side effects are rare, but may include:.

To avoid hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, even in people without diabetes, take Asian ginseng with food. People with high blood pressure should not take Asian ginseng products without their doctor's supervision. A systematic review of randomized clinical trials found that in three different trials Korean red ginseng had the efficacy to boost sexual arousal in menopausal women, increase well-being and general health while decreasing depressive symptoms, and better improve menopause symptoms on the Kupperman index and Menopausal Rating Scale compared to the placebo group.

A fourth study found no significant difference in the frequency of hot flashes between the ginseng and placebo group. Ginseng products are made from the root and the offshoots that are called root hairs.

You can find the herb in dried, powdered, capsule and tablet forms. It is also available in a number of combination formulas. The contents of products labeled as containing Panax can vary greatly, and some may contain little or no Panax.

Be sure to read the ingredient labels carefully, and always purchase products from a reputable and reliable company. When buying Asian ginseng, look for Korean, red or Panax ginseng. When buying the American variety, look for Panax quinquefolius.

In China, people have been drinking ginseng tea for 5, years. In Chinese herbal medicine, practitioners recommend that adults over 40 drink one cup every day. Ginseng tea, just like ginseng supplements and extracts, is used to improve your mental power and memory.

When making the tea, first choose the type of ginseng you want to use: American which is better during hotter months or Korean better during colder months. You can buy ginseng tea bags from your local food store, but making it yourself from the root of the plant is the most beneficial form.

Proper dosing is an important factor for ginseng use. The following ginseng doses have been studied in scientific research:. The side effects from ginseng are generally mild in healthy adults. It can act as a stimulant in some people, so it may cause nervousness and insomnia especially in large doses.

Long-term use or high doses may cause headaches, dizziness and stomachaches. Women who use it regularly may experience menstrual changes and vaginal bleeding, and there have also been some reports of allergic reactions to the herb.

Given the lack of evidence about its safety, ginseng is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can interact with warfarin coumadin and some medicines for depression.

There is some concern that Panax increases symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as MS, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, so patients with those conditions should consult with their doctors before and while taking this supplement. People who have had organ transplants may not want to take it because it could increase the risk of organ rejection.

Ginseng may interact with female hormone-sensitive illnesses, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis and uterine fibroids, because it has estrogen-like effects. Research shows that excessive use can lead to ginseng abuse syndrome , which has been associated with:.

To avoid side effects from this herb, some experts suggest not taking it for more than three to six months at a time. If need be, your doctor may recommend that you take a break and then begin to take it again for a few weeks or months.

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There are several different types of ginseng. Some derive from different plants and may not have the same effect as Panax ginseng. Supplements can also come from root extract or root powder.

Additionally, ginseng may be classified by the following:. The authors also noted that no study has compared ginseng to common ED medications. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about ED treatment options. A review noted that the evidence to date suggested that while ginseng may have potential benefits, the evidence wasn't sufficient to prove benefits.

The studies were short-term and had very different methodologies, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Nor is there high-quality research to support its use for people with dementia.

Panax ginseng comes from the root of the plant in the genus Panax. When looking for a ginseng supplement, consider the following:.

For any supplement or herbal product, look for one that has been third-party tested. This provides some quality assurance in that the supplement contains what the label says it does and is free of harmful contaminants.

Look for labels from the United States Pharmacopeia USP , the National Science Foundation NSF , or ConsumerLab. Ginseng is often found in herbal supplements and drinks.

It is touted to help manage many health conditions, but there is not enough research to prove the efficacy of its use. When searching for products, look for supplements certified for quality by an independent third party, like the NSF, or ask your healthcare provider for a reputable brand recommendation.

Ginseng supplementation may result in some mild effects. It also interacts with several different medications.

It is important to discuss herbal remedies with your healthcare provider to understand their risks versus their benefits. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Asian ginseng. Gui QF, Xu ZR, Xu KY, Yang YM.

The efficacy of ginseng-related therapies in type 2 diabetes mellitus: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine Baltimore. Shishtar E, Sievenpiper JL, Djedovic V, et al.

The effect of ginseng the genus Panax on glycemic control: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials.

PLoS One. Ziaei R, Ghavami A, Ghaedi E, et al. The efficacy of ginseng supplementation on plasma lipid concentration in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med. Hernández-García D, Granado-Serrano AB, Martín-Gari M, Naudí A, Serrano JC. Efficacy of Panax ginseng supplementation on blood lipid profile.

A meta-analysis and systematic review of clinical randomized trials. J Ethnopharmacol. Naseri K, Saadati S, Sadeghi A, et al. The efficacy of ginseng Panax on human prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Park SH, Chung S, Chung MY, et al. Effects of Panax ginseng on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

J Ginseng Res. Mohammadi H, Hadi A, Kord-Varkaneh H, et al. Effects of ginseng supplementation on selected markers of inflammation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Phytother Res. Saboori S, Falahi E, Rad EY, et al. Effects of ginseng on C-reactive protein level: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.

Lee HW, Ang L, Lee MS. Using ginseng for menopausal women's health care: a systematic review of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Complement Ther Clin Pract. Sellami M, Slimeni O, Pokrywka A, et al. Herbal medicine for sports: a review. J Int Soc Sports Nutr.

Kim S, Kim N, Jeong J, et al. Anti-cancer effect of Panax ginseng and its metabolites: from traditional medicine to modern drug discovery. Antonelli M, Donelli D, Firenzuoli F.

Ginseng integrative supplementation for seasonal acute upper respiratory infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hassen G, Belete G, Carrera KG, et al. Clinical implications of herbal supplements in conventional medical practice: a US perspective.

Li CT, Wang HB, Xu BJ. A comparative study on anticoagulant activities of three Chinese herbal medicines from the genus Panax and anticoagulant activities of ginsenosides Rg1 and Rg2. Pharm Biol. doi: Malík M, Tlustoš P.

Nootropic herbs, shrubs, and trees as potential cognitive enhancers. Plants Basel. Awortwe C, Makiwane M, Reuter H, Muller C, Louw J, Rosenkranz B. Critical evaluation of causality assessment of herb-drug interactions in patients. Br J Clin Pharmacol.

Mancuso C, Santangelo R. Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius : from pharmacology to toxicology. Food Chem Toxicol. Mohammadi S, Asghari G, Emami-Naini A, Mansourian M, Badri S. Herbal supplement use and herb-drug interactions among patients with kidney disease.

J Res Pharm Pract. Yang L, Li CL, Tsai TH. Preclinical herb-drug pharmacokinetic interaction of Panax ginseng extract and selegiline in freely moving rats. ACS Omega. Lee HW, Lee MS, Kim TH, et al. Ginseng for erectile dysfunction.

Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Smith I, Williamson EM, Putnam S, Farrimond J, Whalley BJ. Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition. Nutr Rev. Food and Drug Administration. Dietary supplements. Her experience ranges from counseling cardiac rehabilitation clients to managing the nutrition needs of complex surgical patients.

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Researchers treated human colorectal cancer cells with steamed ginseng berry extract and found the anti-proliferation effects were 98 percent for HCT and 99 percent for SW cells.

When researchers tested steamed American ginseng root, they found results comparable to that of the steamed berry extract. Another well-researched ginseng benefit is its ability to boost the immune system — helping the body fight off infection and disease. The roots, stems and leaves have been used for maintaining immune homeostasis and enhancing resistance to illness or infection.

Several clinical studies have shown that American ginseng improves the performance of cells that play a role in immunity. It regulates each type of immune cell, including macrophages, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, T cells and B cells.

Ginseng extracts produce antimicrobial compounds that work as a defense mechanism against bacterial and viral infections. Studies show that its polyacetylene compounds are effective against bacterial infections. Research involving mice showed that ginseng decreased the number of bacteria present in the spleens, kidney and blood.

Ginseng extracts also protected mice from septic death due to inflammation. Reports show that this herb also has inhibitory effects on the growth of many viruses, including influenza, HIV and rotavirus.

Pesky symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depressive symptoms, vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, weight gain, insomnia and thinning hair, tend to accompany menopause.

Some evidence suggests that ginseng can help decrease the severity and occurrence of these symptoms as part of a natural menopause treatment plan. A systematic review of randomized clinical trials found that in three different trials Korean red ginseng had the efficacy to boost sexual arousal in menopausal women, increase well-being and general health while decreasing depressive symptoms, and better improve menopause symptoms on the Kupperman index and Menopausal Rating Scale compared to the placebo group.

A fourth study found no significant difference in the frequency of hot flashes between the ginseng and placebo group. Ginseng products are made from the root and the offshoots that are called root hairs.

You can find the herb in dried, powdered, capsule and tablet forms. It is also available in a number of combination formulas. The contents of products labeled as containing Panax can vary greatly, and some may contain little or no Panax. Be sure to read the ingredient labels carefully, and always purchase products from a reputable and reliable company.

When buying Asian ginseng, look for Korean, red or Panax ginseng. When buying the American variety, look for Panax quinquefolius. In China, people have been drinking ginseng tea for 5, years. In Chinese herbal medicine, practitioners recommend that adults over 40 drink one cup every day.

Ginseng tea, just like ginseng supplements and extracts, is used to improve your mental power and memory. When making the tea, first choose the type of ginseng you want to use: American which is better during hotter months or Korean better during colder months.

You can buy ginseng tea bags from your local food store, but making it yourself from the root of the plant is the most beneficial form.

Proper dosing is an important factor for ginseng use. The following ginseng doses have been studied in scientific research:. The side effects from ginseng are generally mild in healthy adults.

It can act as a stimulant in some people, so it may cause nervousness and insomnia especially in large doses. Long-term use or high doses may cause headaches, dizziness and stomachaches. Women who use it regularly may experience menstrual changes and vaginal bleeding, and there have also been some reports of allergic reactions to the herb.

Given the lack of evidence about its safety, ginseng is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can interact with warfarin coumadin and some medicines for depression. There is some concern that Panax increases symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as MS, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, so patients with those conditions should consult with their doctors before and while taking this supplement.

People who have had organ transplants may not want to take it because it could increase the risk of organ rejection.

Ginseng may interact with female hormone-sensitive illnesses, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis and uterine fibroids, because it has estrogen-like effects. Research shows that excessive use can lead to ginseng abuse syndrome , which has been associated with:.

To avoid side effects from this herb, some experts suggest not taking it for more than three to six months at a time. If need be, your doctor may recommend that you take a break and then begin to take it again for a few weeks or months. Popular Nutrition Posts All Time This Week {position} Detox Your Liver: A 6-Step Liver Cleanse.

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Herbal medicines and perioperative care. Biondo PD, Robbins SJ, Walsh JD, McCargar LJ, Harber VJ, Field CJ. A randomized controlled crossover trial of the effect of ginseng consumption on the immune response to moderate exercise in healthy sedentary men.

Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. Bucci LR. Selected herbals and human exercise performance. Am J Clin Nutr. Cardinal BJ, Engels HJ. Ginseng does not enhance psychological well-being in healthy, young adults: Results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial.

J Am Diet Assoc. Caso MA, Vargas RR, Salas VA, Begoña IC. Double-blind study of a multivitamin complex supplemented with ginseng extract. Drugs Exp Clin Res.

Chen CF, Chiou WF, Zhang JT. Comparison of the pharmacological effects of Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolium. Acta Pharmacol Sin. Coleman CI, Hebert JH, Reddy P.

The effects of Panax ginseng on quality of life. J Clin Pharm Ther. Ernst E. The risk-benefit profile of commonly used herbal therapies: ginkgo, St.

John's wort, ginseng, echinacea, saw palmetto, and kava. Ann Intern Med. Gao JL, Lv GY, He BC, et al. Ginseng saponin metabolite 20 S -protopanaxadiol inhibits tumor growth by targeting multiple cancer signaling pathways.

Oncol Rep. Geng J, Dong J, Ni H, Lee MS, Wu T, Jiang K, Wang G, Zhou AL, Malouf R. Ginseng for cognition. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Gyllenhaal C, Merritt SL, Peterson SD, et al. Efficacy and safety of herbal stimulants and sedatives in sleep disorders.

Sleep Med Rev. Harkey MR, Henderson GL, Gershwin ME, et al. Variability in commercial ginseng products: an analysis of 25 preparations.

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Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. Am J Health Syst Pharm. Heo JH, Lee ST, Chu K, Oh MJ, Park HJ, Shim JY, Kim M. An open-label trial of Korean red ginseng as an adjuvant treatment for cognitive impairment in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

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Br J Clin Pharmacol. Jiang X, Williams KM, Liauw WS, et al. Effect of St John's wort and ginseng on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of warfarin in healthy subjects.

Kabalak AA, Soyal OB, Urfalioglu A, et al. Menometrorrhagia and tachyarrhythmia after using oral and topical ginseng. J Womens Health. Larchmt ;13 7 Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Wesnes KA.

Physiol Behav. Kim JH, Park CY, Lee SJ. Effects of Sun Ginseng on subjective quality of life in cancer patients: a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial. Lieberman HR.

The effects of ginseng, ephedrine, and caffeine on cognitive performance, mood and energy. Nutr Rev. Liu J, Burdette JE, Xu H, et al. Evaluation of estrogenic activity of plant extracts for the potential treatment of menopausal symptoms.

J Agric Food Chem. Mantle D, Lennard TWJ, Pickering AT. Therapeutic applications of medicinal plants in the treatment of breast cancer: a review of their pharmacology, efficacy and tolerability.

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CNS Drugs. McElhaney JE, Gravenstein S, Cole SK, et al. A placebo-controlled trial of a proprietary extract of North American ginseng CVT-E to prevent acute respiratory illness in institutionalized older adults. J Am GeriatrSoc. McElhaney JE, Goel V, Toane B, et al.

Efficacy of COLD-fX in the prevention of respiratory symptoms in community-dwelling adults: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med. Mucalo I, Jovanovski E, Rahelic D, Bozikov V, Rmoic Z, Vuksan V.

Effect of American ginseng Panax quinquefolius L. on arterial stiffness in subjects with type-2 diabetes and concomitant hypertension. J Ethnopharmacol. Oh KJ, Chae MJ, Lee HS, Hong HD, Park K. Effects of Korean red ginseng on sexual arousal in menopausal women: placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover clinical study.

J Sex Med. Park SE, Park C, Kim SH, Hossain MA, Kim MY, Chung HY, et al. Korean red ginseng extract induces apoptosis and decreases telomerase activity in human leukemia cells. Predy GN, Goel V, Lovlin R, et al. Efficacy of an extract of North American ginseng containing poly-furanosyl-pyranosyl-saccharides for preventing upper respiratory tract infections: a randomized controlled trial.

Reay JL, Scholey AB, Kennedy DO. Panax ginseng G improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adults. Hum Psychopharmacol. Scholey A, Ossoukhova A, Owen L, Ibarra A, Pipingas A, He K, Roller M, Stough C.

Effects of American ginseng Panax quinquefolius on neurocognitive function: an acute, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Psychopharmacology Berl. Sinclaire S. Male infertility: nutritional and environmental considerations.

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Preventive and therapeutic roles of ginseng - focus on colon cancer. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. Wargovich MJ. Colon cancer chemoprevention with ginseng and other botanicals. J Korean Med Sci. Share Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Home Health Library.

Asian ginseng Asiatic ginseng; Chinese ginseng; Korean red ginseng; Oriental ginseng; Panax ginseng. Plant description The ginseng plant has leaves that grow in a circle around a straight stem. What is it Made of? Available Forms White ginseng dried, peeled or red ginseng unpeeled root, steamed before drying is available in water, water-and-alcohol, or alcohol liquid extracts, and in powders or capsules.

How to Take it Pediatric Do not give ginseng to a child. Adult Asian ginseng comes in different forms and is often used in combination with other herbs or nutrients. Precautions The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease.

Other side effects are rare, but may include: High blood pressure Insomnia Restlessness Anxiety Euphoria Diarrhea Vomiting Headache Nose bleed Breast pain Vaginal bleeding To avoid hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, even in people without diabetes, take Asian ginseng with food.

People with bipolar disorder should not take ginseng because it may increase the risk of mania. Women who have a history of breast cancer should not take ginseng. Possible Interactions If you are currently taking any of the following medications, you should not use Asian ginseng without first talking to your health care provider: ACE inhibitors blood pressure medications : Asian ginseng may interact with angiotensin-converting enzyme ACE inhibitors used to lower high blood pressure.

These medications include: Captopril Capoten Benazepril Lotensin Enalapril Vasotec Lisinopril Prinivil, Zestril Fosinopril Monopril Ramipril Altace Perindopril Aceon Quinapril Accupril Moexipril Univasc Trandolapril Mavik Calcium channel blockers heart and blood pressure medications : Asian ginseng may make certain heart medications, including calcium channel blockers, work differently than intended.

These medications include: Amlodipine Norvasc Diltiazem Cardizem Nifedipine Procardia Blood-thinners anticoagulants and antiplatelets : Asian ginseng may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you already take blood thinners, such as aspirin, warfarin Coumadin , or clopidogrel Plavix.

By the 16th century, it was so popular that control over the ginseng fields became an issue. There are 11 species of ginseng, all belonging to the genus Panax of the family Araliaceae.

The true ginseng plant belongs only to the Panax genus, so other species, such as Siberian ginseng and crown prince ginseng, have distinctively different functions. Both Asian and American ginseng contain ginsenosides, but they include different types in different amounts.

Ginseng contains various pharmacological components, including a series of tetracyclic triterpenoid saponins ginsenosides , polyacetylenes, polyphenolic compounds and acidic polysaccharides.

Due to the presence of these plant compounds, it has the following benefits:. A controlled study done at the Brain Performance and Nutrition Research Centre in the United Kingdom involved 30 volunteers who were given three rounds of treatments of ginseng and placebo.

The milligram dose improved calmness and mental arithmetic for the duration of the eight-day treatment. Ginseng stimulates brain cells and improves concentration and cognitive activities. After ginseng treatment, the participants showed improvements, and this upscale trend continued for three months.

Although more research on this topic is needed, one preliminary study found that a combination of American ginseng and ginkgo biloba may benefit patients with ADHD.

The study involving children ages 6—12 with ADHD symptoms showed that using a combination of omega-3 supplements and Korean red ginseng improved ADHD symptoms and cognitive function in children, including attention, memory and executive function.

An interesting study done in Korea measured the beneficial effects of Korean red ginseng on children after chemotherapy or stem cell transplantation for advanced cancer. The study included 19 patients who received 60 milligrams of Korean red ginseng daily for one year. Blood samples were collected every six months, and as a result of the treatment, the cytokines, or small proteins that are responsible for sending signals to the brain and regulating cell growth, decreased rapidly.

It was a significant difference from the control group. This study suggests that Korean red ginseng has a stabilizing effect of the inflammatory cytokines in children with cancer after chemotherapy.

A study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine done on rats also measured the impact that Korean red ginseng has on inflammatory cytokines.

After giving rats milligrams of Korean red ginseng extract for seven days, it proved to significantly reduce the extent of inflammation, and it improved the damage that was already done to the brain. Korean red ginseng was tested for its anti-allergic properties on 40 mice with allergic rhinitis, a common upper airway inflammatory disease typically seen in children and adults.

The most frequent symptoms include congestion, nasal itching and sneezing. Another surprising ginseng benefit is its ability to work as a natural appetite suppressant. It also boosts your metabolism and helps the body burn fat at a faster rate. A study done at the Tang Center for Herbal Medicine Research in Chicago measured the anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects of Panax ginseng berry in adult mice.

The mice were injected with milligrams of ginseng berry extract per kilogram of body weight for 12 days. By day five, the mice taking the extract had significantly lower fasting blood glucose levels. After day 12, the glucose tolerance in the mice increased, and overall blood glucose levels decreased by 53 percent.

The treated mice showed weight loss, too, starting at 51 grams and ending the treatment at 45 grams. A similar study done in found that Panax ginseng plays a vital role in the anti-obesity effect in mice.

This suggests the clinical importance of improving the management of obesity and related metabolic syndromes with this herb. Taking powdered Korean red ginseng seems to improve sexual dysfunction and erectile dysfunction in men.

A systematic review included 28 randomized clinical studies that evaluated the effectiveness of red ginseng for treating erectile dysfunction. The review provided suggestive evidence for the use of the herb, but researchers believe that more rigorous studies are necessary in order to draw definitive conclusions.

Of the 28 reviewed studies, six reported an improvement of erectile function when using red ginseng compared with placebo control. Four studies tested the effects of red ginseng for sexual function using questionnaires compared with placebo, and all trials reported positive effects.

Ginseng treatment has significantly decreased lung bacteria, and studies involving rats have shown that it can stop the growth of cystic fibrosis, a common lung infection. In one study, rats were given ginseng injections, and after two weeks, the treated group showed a significantly improved bacterial clearance from the lungs.

Research also shows another ginseng benefit is its ability to treat a lung disease called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD , which is characterized as chronically poor airflow that typically worsens over time. According to the research, taking Panax by mouth seems to improve lung function and some symptoms of COPD.

Several studies show that American ginseng lowers blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, working to improve diabetes symptoms. One study done at the Human Cognitive Neuroscience Unit in the United Kingdom found that Panax causes a reduction in blood glucose levels one hour after the consumption of glucose, confirming that ginseng possesses glucoregulatory properties.

One of the primary difficulties with type 2 diabetes is that the body is not responsive enough to insulin. Research has shown that ginseng possesses powerful anticancer properties because of its ability to inhibit tumor growth.

Although more research is needed on this subject, reports conclude that the improvements in cell immunity involving T cells and NK cells natural killer cells — along with other mechanisms such as oxidative stress, apoptosis and angiogenesis — give this herb its anticancer properties. Scientific reviews state that ginseng mitigates cancer through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and apoptotic mechanisms to influence gene expression and stop tumor growth.

This shows this herb may work as a natural cancer preventer. will get colorectal cancer during his or her lifetime. Researchers treated human colorectal cancer cells with steamed ginseng berry extract and found the anti-proliferation effects were 98 percent for HCT and 99 percent for SW cells.

When researchers tested steamed American ginseng root, they found results comparable to that of the steamed berry extract. Another well-researched ginseng benefit is its ability to boost the immune system — helping the body fight off infection and disease.

The roots, stems and leaves have been used for maintaining immune homeostasis and enhancing resistance to illness or infection. Several clinical studies have shown that American ginseng improves the performance of cells that play a role in immunity.

It regulates each type of immune cell, including macrophages, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, T cells and B cells. Ginseng extracts produce antimicrobial compounds that work as a defense mechanism against bacterial and viral infections.

Studies show that its polyacetylene compounds are effective against bacterial infections. Research involving mice showed that ginseng decreased the number of bacteria present in the spleens, kidney and blood. Ginseng extracts also protected mice from septic death due to inflammation.

Reports show that this herb also has inhibitory effects on the growth of many viruses, including influenza, HIV and rotavirus. Pesky symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depressive symptoms, vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, weight gain, insomnia and thinning hair, tend to accompany menopause.

Some evidence suggests that ginseng can help decrease the severity and occurrence of these symptoms as part of a natural menopause treatment plan.