Ginseng is native to Asia and America. Much of the wild ginseng plants have virtually become extinct due to deforestation, over-harvesting and grazing. Today ginseng is mostly commercially grown for its medicinal benefits. The root of the ginseng plant is harvested once the plant matures to six years old. The root is then dried and then crushed to make a powder which is then made into tablet, capsule, teas, topical creams and liquid forms.
There are three types of ginseng available on the market. The American and Asian ginseng is closely related and exhibit many medicinal benefits although Asian ginseng is more of a stimulant than the American species. Siberian ginseng is usually cheaper but contains none of the key ingredients known for their medicinal value. Ginseng is one of the most popular supplements consumed by Americans. The Chinese have been using ginseng as a herbal remedy since the first century A.D. The American Indians have used ginseng for centuries and passed on its medicinal values to European settlers in the early 1700’s. This article discusses the health benefits of ginseng, recommended dosages and side effects.
Ginseng is considered an adaptogen, meaning that rather than it treating one sole health ailment, it is adaptable to treating a variety of health complaints. It also means that it is effective at reducing stress in the body and restoring a healthy balance. It is therefore considered an all round health tonic. The pharmacological benefits of the ginseng root are believed to be due to chemicals called ginsenosides and panaxosides. They are plant steroids that exhibit similar characteristics to naturally occurring human hormone steroids. These two chemicals have been scientifically tested on animals to which most of the positive health claims have been attributed to. Very few studies have been performed on humans in clinical trials therefore any proposed health benefits of ginseng supplements remains inconclusive.
Proposed Health Benefits of Ginseng
· Boosts the Immune System
Ginseng helps the body to fight off infection. People who regularly take ginseng supplements report fewer incidences of colds and influenza. The symptoms of colds and influenza are less intense and recovery times are shortened.
· Boosts Overall Energy
Ginseng is a stimulant that can boost energy levels in the body. It also reduces the effects of stress and stimulates mental alertness. Given that it gives and energy boost to the body, weight loss is possible due to increase stamina and endurance in physical activities. Asian ginseng is recommended for these health benefits.
· Cancer Prevention
Some studies have shown that the ginsenosides in ginseng help to prevent and suppresses cancer cells from growing. A study performed by the Mayo Clinic found that cancer patients who were given ginseng root supplements showed a marked improvement in energy levels after 8 weeks during their cancer treatment. The American ginseng has been attributed to this health benefit.
· Increases Libido in both Men and Women
The Chinese have used ginseng to stimulate libido in both men and women for thousands of years. It is believed ginseng is an aphrodisiac. It is typically prescribed for women during menopause when libido commonly decreases. An Italian study found that ginseng increases testosterone levels and sperm count in men. Some studies have also shown that ginseng may help with erectile dysfunction. Korean ginseng is recommended for these health benefits.
· Antioxidant
American ginseng is a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants help to rid the body of free radicals which are responsible for causing inflammation in the body. Inflammation is usually the first sign of serious disease processes taking hold. Ginseng supplements can be used to prevent inflammation and treat symptoms of common inflammatory diseases.
· Prevents Hair Loss
American and Asian ginseng is believed to enhance cell metabolism and promote blood flow. These two attributes help prevent hair loss. A study performed on mice using a ginseng extract found that it stimulates hair follicles which leads to hair growth.
· Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Some early trials have shown that ginseng lowers blood sugar levels in diabetics with hyperglycemia. (High blood sugar levels) It is not yet recommended to treat diabetes until more clinical studies have been performed
Recommended Dosages
The recommended dosage of ginseng is 100 to 200 mgs twice a day. The long term effects of taking ginseng have not been scientifically tested so therefore it is only recommended to take ginseng for 4 to 12 weeks to treat an underlying health complaint. After a month of not consuming ginseng you can recommence for another 4 to 12 week period.
Side Effects of Ginseng
Ginseng is generally considered safe to take as a supplement or as a herbal tea. Most people will not experience any side effects at all. In some cases, side effects can include headaches, sleeping problems, menstrual irregularities, gastrointestinal disturbances and or allergic reactions. Ginseng can also interact with your current medications, so be sure to consult your doctor before commencing on ginseng supplements. Asian ginseng is not recommended for people who suffer from anxiety and depression or insomnia as it is a powerful stimulant that can increase levels of anxiety and inhibit sleep. If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking the supplement and seek medical attention.
In conclusion, ginseng has been used for thousands of years with very few side effects and many health promoting benefits. Strangely, ginseng has not been comprehensively studied to prove or disprove its health benefits. Millions of people throughout the world who supplement with ginseng sing the praises of its wonders. Until science takes out a thorough investigation of its possible health promoting benefits, we at least know that it is safe to take for most people.
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