Ginseng is an herb. Many varieties of ginseng root have been used to treat ailments throughout Asia as well as North America for centuries. Ginseng is among the most well-known herbal remedies all over the world.
Benefits of Ginseng
There are two kinds of ginsengs: Asian or Korean ginseng ( Panax ginseng) and American ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius). Studies have shown that different varieties offer different benefits. In traditional Chinese treatment, American ginseng is considered less stimulant than the Asian varieties.
Many other herbs are classified as ginseng, like eleuthero or Siberian ginseng, they don't have the active ingredient in ginsenosides.
Ginseng is traditionally used to treat various medical ailments. However, the benefits it offers for most of them aren't being investigated. The root could assist you:
- Increase your immune system. Certain studies have shown that ginseng could improve immunity. Evidence suggests that a specific type of American extract of ginseng could reduce the severity and frequency of colds among adults.
- Control the blood sugar. Several studies have demonstrated that ginseng can reduce glucose levels in individuals.
- Enhance concentration. Some early evidence suggests that ginseng could provide some short-term, small increase in concentration and learning. Certain studies on mental performance have paired Ginseng with extracts from the Ginkgo leaves flora, another popular remedy believed to ease the symptoms of dementia. Although these research studies are interesting, however, experts believe we need more proof.
- Reducing inflammation. Some studies suggest that ginseng can help manage inflammation-related diseases.
Ginseng is also being studied as a method to improve the quality of life and increase endurance, and also to treat:
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Fatigue
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hepatitis C
- High blood pressure
- Menopausal symptoms
Although some of these applications seem promising, however, the evidence isn't conclusive.
Ginseng Dosage
Standard doses of ginseng aren't been established for any conditions. The activity and quality of the ingredients in supplements vary from one manufacturer to the next. This makes it difficult to develop a standard dosage. The majority of research studies recommend daily dosages of 200 milligrams of Panax Ginseng extract or 0.5-2 milligrams of dried root. When taken in capsules, ginseng doses are generally between 100 and 600 milligrams per day.
Be sure to purchase ginseng from a reliable business. Since it's a pricey root, there's a chance that unreputable producers might sell ginseng with additional ingredients to it or contain less than what's advertised within the bottles.
Ginseng Uses
Ginseng can be purchased as a nutritional supplement in tea-dried herbs, powder, or capsules.
Ginseng can also be added to other regular products, like soaps, toothpastes, baby food, candy drinks, cigarettes, and gum. The kind of form you decide to use could be based on your health requirements and individual preferences.
Ginseng roots
Ginseng root is a species of plant belonging to the Panax Genus family. It is the plant's root component that is frequently used for health reasons.
The ginseng root is tan and twisted. It appears a bit like a person's body with strings supporting legs and arms.
Peeling and chew the ginseng root in its raw form is possible. Another alternative is to soak the root in wine for a drink. You can also boil the root and make it tea.
Ginseng add-ons
Ginseng is a popular supplement that is available in various varieties. It's important to note that the FDA does not control herbal supplements like Ginseng. So, you don't fully know what's in your supplement.
The ginseng supplement can be taken by mouth with water as a capsule or tablet. The pills usually contain ground extracts or roots and could also include various types of Ginseng.
Ginseng Root Extract powder may be mixed into a variety of drinks. It can contain higher quantities of ginseng than capsules or tablets.
Ginseng tea
Ginseng tea is made from the root of ginseng. You can buy teas already prepared or make them yourself from powder or roots.
Ginseng herbs
Certain studies suggest that dried ginseng could have greater health benefits than raw ginseng. While you could dry ginseng on your own, however, the process could be difficult. Dry ginseng that has been prepared is available in a variety of retail stores and on the internet.
Ginseng in Food
There aren't any naturally-sourced food sources of Ginseng. Ginseng is frequently added to food items and energy drinks.
It is also possible to add ginseng to:
- Soups or stews
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
- Stir-fried dishes
- Smoothies
- Beverages like juices, coffee or teas
Ginseng Side Effects
Ginseng's adverse effects are usually relatively mild. It is believed to be the cause of:
- Nervousness
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Stomach upset
- Skin reactions
- Allergy reactions
- Menstrual cycle fluctuations
Some experts advise that you avoid taking ginseng for more than three months—or even for a few weeks at a time—to avoid adverse side effects.
In light of the lack of evidence regarding the safety of ginseng, it isn't advised for use with children or when you're pregnant or lactating.
Interactions
Ginseng may interfere with other medications you are taking. There are a few examples:
- Digoxin
- Morphine
- Blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or Clopidogrel (Plavix)
- Insulin and other diabetes medications are also available.
- Diuretics, such as bumetanide the torsemide (Demadex) and furosemide (Lasix)
- Heart medication such as diltiazem verapamil or nifedipine
- Monoamine oxide inhibitors like selegiline (Eldepryl), isocarboxazid (Marplan) as well as phenelzine (Nardil) as well as tranylcypromine (Parnate)
- Stimulants such as amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall) and methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin)
- Medicines that impact the immune system
Always inform your physician about any supplements made from herbs that you use, such as ginseng.
Takeaways
Ginseng is a well-known supplement that can provide health benefits. You can purchase ginseng in pills, powders, or dried herbs. It's frequently included in popular energy drinks, teas, and sweets. Although ginseng is generally considered safe, you must consult your physician before taking an unfamiliar supplement.
Ginseng FAQs
Are ginseng and ashwagandha the same thing? Ashwagandha?
Ginseng isn't identical to ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is an evergreen tree found in India, the Middle East, and Africa. Ginseng is generally thought of as stimulating, whereas ashwagandha is thought to be calming.
Does ginseng contain caffeine? It?
Ginseng does not contain caffeine. However, some studies have shown that it may increase its effects on caffeine. Therefore, it is often added to teas and energy drinks that contain lots of caffeine.
Are ginseng really good for you?
Studies have suggested that ginseng may provide health benefits, including enhanced focus and an increased immune system. However, many of these claims haven't been thoroughly studied.
Can you safely consume ginseng supplements daily?
It's possible to take ginseng daily. However, some sources suggest taking a two-week break between doses every two to three weeks.
How long will it take to experience the effects of the ginseng?
It all depends on the reason why you choose to use it. A few people have said they experienced the effects in less than 24 hours.