How Ginseng Helps To Solve Health Issues
The word Ginseng comes from the Chinese term Rén meaning “man” and shen meaning a kind of herb. It also describes the way the plant appears which is fork-like and like the shape of a man. Ginseng, in fact, is one of the eleven species of slow-growing perennial plants with fleshy roots, that is part of the Panax family of the Araliaceae. Ginseng can only be found in certain parts of the world such as the Northern Hemisphere, in North America and in Eastern Asia (mostly Korea, Northern China (Manchuria), and Eastern Siberia) in cool climates. The only known Ginseng that grows in a little bit warmer climate is the species known as Panax vietnamensis. It was originally discovered in the forests of Vietnam. The two major species are American Ginseng (grown in the Midwest of America and exported to China) and Asian Ginseng. Ginseng is known to be an adaptogen – adaptogens are substances that help the body to restore itself to health and to work without side effects.
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is an herb said to offer numerous health benefits, including treatment of conditions like diabetes and cancer. Laboratory research shows that ginsenosides (compounds found in American Ginseng) may stimulate the immune system and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Like other forms of Ginseng (such as Korean Ginseng, or Panax Ginseng), American Ginseng has also been found to fight fatigue in preliminary research. However, the overall evidence for American Ginseng’s health benefits is fairly limited to date.
Asian Ginseng: Ginseng (Panax Ginseng), a native of Eastern Asia, Siberia and North America is a perennial species known and appreciated for its pharmaceutical properties for almost 5000 years. It was very precious in ancient times and its price was the same as the price of gold. Beginning with the 9th century, the herb was introduced in Europe by an Arab physician and after nine centuries it became one of the most popular natural remedies. It was used initially for its tonic effect over the immune system and for its power to heal virosis and fever states, but its area of use increased gradually and in our days it is used to treat fatigue, afflictions of the nervous system and lack of concentration. Protected by law, Ginseng is intensively cultivated in China, Japan, Korea and Russia. Etymologically, its name comes from the word “gin” that means “human” and the word “seng” that means “the essence”. Many people are more familiar with the Asian species of Ginseng, often called Chinese or Korean Ginseng or scientifically known as Panax Ginseng, which is very similar in appearance to North American Ginseng. However, what may be confusing to many people is that these herbal products vary considerably in quality and many contain little or no detectable active ingredient.
Safe: In China, Ginseng is classified as a kingly herb, a mild herb with no harmful side-effects, that helps the body maintain peak health. Many Asians view Ginseng as a regenerative elixir that, if taken over a period of time, can not only increase health and vitality but can also prolong life. It is believed that Ginseng makes the body more resistant to disease, prevents decline in potency in older men, restores virility, increase general vitality and can negate some effects of stress. It is said to give the sick more strength, energy and stamina. Most evidence of Ginseng’s effectiveness is more suggestive than conclusive and you should always consult a physician’s medical treatment for ailments as recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Plant Description
In the 1960′s, specific complex carbohydrate compounds called ginsenosides were identified and tagged as significant active ingredients. Up to 29 different ginsenosides have been identified to date. These compounds have chemical structures similar to human hormones and it is believed that they may work similarly. They can affect various enzyme systems at locations in the liver, kidneys, heart, brain, adrenal gland and immune system. It also contains panaxan (Panax Ginseng), which diminishes the level of glycemia and increases the effect of insulin. Ginseng contains a complex mixture of carbohydrate compounds, nitrogenous compounds, fat soluble compounds, vitamins and minerals. The root of Asian Ginseng also contains panaxosides that are thought to be responsible for the medicinal effects of the herb. Asian Ginseng is “warming” while American Ginseng is “cooling”.
Health Benefits of Ginseng
Ginseng for stress: Both Asian and American Ginseng are known as adaptogens, substances known for normalizing functions. Adaptogens enable the body to handle stress without detrimental physical or mental effects. With reduced stress, the body is better able to fight disease. Adaptogens have the ability to bring the body back into a healthy, balanced state. Ginseng is seen as having both soothing and revitalizing adaptogenic properties. Ginseng seems to be able to increase the body’s ability to adapt and adjust. It is believed that the active ingredients in Ginseng can harmonize body functions and are only used as needed, even if taken regularly. Many studies have shown that Ginseng is able to reduce levels of stress in both men and women. In many clinical studies of the herb’s effects, those taking regular Ginseng supplements were able to withstand higher levels of emotional and physical stress than those who had never taken the herb. The compounds in Ginseng have a strong effect on the adrenal glands, which rest on the top of the kidneys. The function of the adrenal glands is to secrete hormones which are used to ward off both physical and emotional stress. Scientists believe that it is this effect on the adrenal glands that is responsible for the stress fighting power of Ginseng. Scientists believe that Ginseng helps the brain produce more endorphins that help to balance the physical and emotional stress hormones secreted from the adrenal glands.
Ginseng for Chronic Fatigue: Ginseng has shown great promise in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome. This condition has puzzled doctors for decades, and there is no widely accepted treatment for the overwhelming fatigue that typifies the condition. However, those suffering from CFS often report an improvement in their symptoms after taking regular Ginseng supplements. Quality research teams in China, Japan and Korea suggest that Ginseng reduces fatigue and increases stamina.
Ginseng for stimulating mental activities: Hectic lifestyle and endless hours of work can really sap your energy, making you irritable, less focused, stressed and more prone to mental illnesses. That’s where Ginseng comes into play. A little dose of Ginseng root can make you feel fresh and improve your cognitive performance. This means, you’ll be able to stay more focused, fresh and energetic throughout the day and show less stress and other stress-related problems. It appears that Ginseng does help facilitate metabolic equilibrium. Russian research shows that Ginseng stimulates physical and mental activities in tired and weak individuals and aids in balancing. The herb was found by the researchers to strengthen and protect the human organism when under prolonged strain. They learned that Ginseng works to stimulate and improve the working of the brain with it’s oxygenation properties. All this without the harsh side-effects of a stimulant such as caffeine. Take one 100-200mg capsule of Ginseng in the morning three times a week. You will then gradually begin to notice improved mental performance.
Ginseng for controlling Blood Sugar: Ginseng may help control blood sugars in people with Diabetes type 2, say researchers at the University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. In a study of 30 people whose diabetes was well-controlled either with pills or diet, half the participants took three grams of American Ginseng and seven grams of Konjac mannan fiber (a sticky form of fiber) each day for 12 weeks. The other 15 participants took a placebo (dummy treatments) for 12 weeks. The placebo consisted of corn starch for the Ginseng and bran fiber for the Konjac mannan fiber. After 12 weeks, researchers measured the participants’ A1Cs. Then the groups switched treatments for 12 more weeks. The original placebo group took Ginseng and Konjac mannan fiber, and vice versa. At the end of the study, the researchers found that treatment with Ginseng and Konjac mannan fiber lowered the participants’ A1Cs from 7 percent to 6.5 percent. Those taking placebo lowered their A1Cs to 6.8 percent.
Another study found that people with type II diabetes who took American Ginseng before or together with a high sugar drink, experienced less of an increase in blood sugar levels. Another study using lab mice found that the American Ginseng berry was more effective at lowering blood sugar levels than the root. Lots of American products such as soft drinks, advertise the use of Ginseng and the benefits of Ginseng on their labels. But as with any findings, more research is needed before there are any definite conclusions about the benefits of Ginseng in diabetes patients.
Ginseng for cholesterol: Ginseng is a wonderful cure for high cholesterol levels. Take one capsule of Ginseng or a cup of Ginseng tea once in every two days.
Ginseng for erectile dysfunction: Another study done on rats that had diabetes showed that the sick rats who suffer from diabetes had lower levels of antioxidants which meant they were more likely to have erectile dysfunction. In this case study, however, the diabetic rats were given Ginseng, and the results were very pleasing to scientist. The antioxidant levels that were typically lower had greatly increased, and as a result, their ability to achieve erections had greatly increased. It is important to note that this was a study on animals, but the fact is that the results correspond with those results found in human studies too. This case also showed that the libido in the rats was increased dramatically and this has also been demonstrated in studies conducted on humans too.
Ginseng for PMS: Menopause can be a very difficult stage in a woman’s life, and complementary medicine can help to mitigate some of its effects. Ginseng does not reliably treat hot flashes or night sweats, but it can ease sexual problems, mood swings and depression associated with menopause and middle age. Ginseng, in medical herbalism, as a medical herb is commonly used in treating women’s health issues like abnormal menstruation and strong PMS symptoms. Women in perimenopause often look to solutions for producing more estrogen with Ginseng. It is, quite famously, thought that this stimulation of estrogen in the female ovaries causes a boost in libido in women. Of course, women like men, often like it because it can be useful in weight loss.
Ginseng for Pregnancy Health: From conception to postpartum, Ginseng may help to support the pregnancy. Historically, practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have recommended Ginseng root to improve female fertility. It can also help to improve the health of unborn babies with anoxemic encephalopathy and retarded fetal growth. Midwives may also recommend it to prevent preterm or post-term labor, although there isn’t enough evidence to firmly recommend for or against it. Although Ginseng seems to be safe for expectant moms, it’s critical to talk to your doctor or midwife before using it. She can help you to determine if the benefits are worth the potential risks.
Ginseng for increasing fertility: Animal studies indicate Ginseng is effective for increasing fertility and sexual performance. The ability of Ginseng to improve sexual health is attributed to the herb’s effect on blood flow, increase in the hormone testosterone and stress-reducing qualities. Stress and fatigue are implicated in lowering testosterone levels, raising the possibility that the activity of Ginseng in reducing both stress and fatigue are operative in increasing testosterone levels in men. Ginseng further stimulates the hypothalamus to produce hormones responsible for testosterone production. Some clinical studies have also shown that, in males, Ginseng may facilitate penile erection, and increase testosterone levels and sperm production.
Ginseng for Cancer Patients: In a 2010 study from Supportive Care in Cancer, cancer patients, who took American Ginseng supplements daily for eight weeks, showed greater improvements in vitality (compared to those assigned to a placebo). Other research suggests that American Ginseng may fight mental fatigue during prolonged mental activity (such as taking a test).
Ginseng for tumor growth: Another benefit of Ginseng, shown in some studies, indicates that it can inhibit tumor growth. In one laboratory study on colorectal cancer cells, researchers found that American Ginseng possessed powerful anti-cancer properties.
Ginseng for preventing cancer: Ginseng contains substances called ginsenosides, chemical compounds believed to have potent properties to prevent cancer. Take one capsule of Ginseng at least five days a week for two months, followed by three weeks off, then resume this cycle. If you have been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to consult your doctor before you start consuming Ginseng regularly.
Ginseng for Obesity: Ginseng does many things to help human health, but many people do not realize that Ginseng is good for weight loss. It gives an energy boost and can help fight fatigue. Because of this, it allows for the person to be more active. One of the big things that it does in the weight loss battle is by regulating blood sugar. It does this by reducing the amount of carbohydrate that is converted into fat. Also, it is important to point out that Ginseng alone will not help lose weight if the person engages in poor dietary choices. It is vital that a well balanced diet is followed and that the person is active.
In Western medicine, it is considered a mild stomachic tonic and stimulant, useful in loss of appetite and in digestive affections that arise from mental and nervous exhaustion. Therefore it is suggested in weight loss programs. The basic principle is that when the person consumes the herb there is loss in appetite and so food consumption is reduced. This helps in maintaining the proper calorie count. Once the appetite is lost it’s easy to control the food intake which is a natural consequence and not something that is forced.
Ginseng for strengthening gastro-intestinal system: Ginseng properties were studied to conclude that the root strengthens the gastrointestinal system, helps facilitate liver regeneration, detoxifies poisons, enhances blood alcohol clearance, reduces the effect of alcohol intoxication and even helps eliminate hangovers!
Ginseng for stamina: Asian Ginseng, along with American Ginseng, or Panax quinquefolius, has the active ingredient ginsenosides. Ginsenosides are steroid-like compounds that increase muscle strength and stamina. Often used by athletes, Asian and American Ginseng also are helpful for men over 40 who are feeling the effects of aging. Additionally, they provide complex carbohydrates and antioxidants, both known for increasing endurance.
Ginseng for cold: American Ginseng may offer cold-fighting benefits, a 2005 study from the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests. For the study, researchers told 323 adults to take two capsules of either American Ginseng or a placebo every day for four months. Study results showed that members of the American Ginseng group had fewer colds over the course of cold season. When they did come down with colds, those given American Ginseng had less severe symptoms and shorter duration of sickness, compared to those assigned to the placebo.
Ginseng for skin: Drinking Ginseng tea is good for refining and rehydrating the skin effectively. It is also thought to promote skin cell regeneration by increasing oxygenation to skin cells. It also has the effect of boosting blood circulation as well as detoxifying the blood, which is very important to human skin health. Free of toxins, the skin can gain a better complexion and therefore better look.
Ginseng for hair growth: The Ginseng benefits for hair growth is an exciting part of the research being done using this well-known herb. In Osaka, Japan, there was a study that suggested that the Ginsenoside Ro carbohydrate was shown to help fight androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as balding, in men. It is thought that this could have widespread cosmetic implications and lead to future drug development for the prevention and regrowth of hair in men with natural herbal Ginseng remedies.
Ginseng for immunity: Stimulating the immune and nervous system
Ginseng for anemia: It helps in the formation of red blood cells and helps to eliminate anemia.
How to Take
Several forms of Ginseng: Ginseng is one of the most widely available of all herbal supplements, and one of the most commercially produced. It is important, therefore, for those shopping for a Ginseng supplement to choose one made with the highest quality ingredients. It is also important to look for a Ginseng supplement which has been processed as little as possible, as excessive processing is thought to reduce the effectiveness of herbal products. Used as capsules, powder, tea or nutritive supplements, Ginseng can be easily found in any drug-store. The pharmaceutical products must be administrated by heeding the doctor’s recommendations. It is important to know that the most efficient mixtures are obtained from the 5 year old herb roots. The soluble tablets are more efficient than the alcoholic extracts.
Ginseng Natural Root: Ginseng is sold as a whole dried root or as an extract in capsules, powders, or teas at herbal stores. If you are buying in natural root form, choose a firm Ginseng with no soft spots or discolorations. There is also the option of buying it pre-cut in thin slices. It is safe to buy a Ginseng product that has a standardized extract of 3 to 7 percent ginsenosides.
Ginseng Tincture: For easy consumption and sale a tincture has been prepared from the genuine Chinese or American root. The roots are dried and then powdered to a coarse powder form. This is covered with five times its weight of alcohol. The mixture is then allowed to stand as such. The conditions for this period are that the bottle should be well corked and stored in a dark, cool place. The bottle should also be shaken twice a day. Thereafter, the tincture is poured off and filtered. The final appearance is a clear, light-lemon colored solution with an odor like the root and a taste at first bitter followed by an acid reaction.
Ginseng Tea: Ginseng roots are always seen as high quality, expensive items on the shelf, but they are bitter and the taste is unpleasant to most people. This herb is not something that people would eat or drink for its taste. Some Westerners have even described the taste of Ginseng tea as awfully “dirt-like”. To moderate its flavor, it is often combined with other fragrant ingredients such as chrysanthemum, lotus paste, cocoa, cinnamon, coffee, green tea, lemon, or even honey which is a natural antibacterial and anti-fungal preservative for Ginseng and its compounds. Honey also contains a wide variety of vitamins, including pyridoxine (vitamin B6), thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2) and Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), and minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, sodium and zinc, antioxidants and amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. The benefits of Ginseng tea are many, and shouldn’t be overlooked. It helps get the Ginseng into the bloodstream faster as it is absorbed by the stomach lining. Ginseng tea is a very popular method of consuming Ginseng. It is most common to make Ginseng tea from whole roots, although it is often sliced into root slivers as well, and placed in tea bags.
Ginseng Dosage
An accepted dose of Ginseng is one or two grams a day. That is two to four 500 mg capsules or tablets. One gram of high quality Ginseng is usually just about right for the average adult, male or female. The normal dose for an adult is about 0.03 oz and for a child the dose diminishes to half. Chinese herbalists believe that maximum benefits from Ginseng use can only be realized by taking Ginseng for several months. It is recommended that first-time users take small amounts of Ginseng daily for two to three months before evaluating the effects.
Taking 100-400mg of Ginseng each day for two to three weeks and then resuming its consumption after a one week gap is considered safe. However, it is always best to follow the dosage instruction on your particular package. While Ginseng is a non-toxic herb, excessive and prolonged use of Ginseng can cause insomnia and hypertension. Therefore, using it continuously for periods longer than three months is not recommended. Instead, it is best to cycle the use of Ginseng. For example, take Ginseng daily for two or three weeks and then take at least one week off.
Side effects of Ginseng
Comparatively Safe: Ginseng, the Asian variety, is a mild herb and is considered safe. Negative side effects are virtually nonexistent. It is not a stimulant and does not cause feelings of over excitement, agitation or insomnia, when taken responsibly. The benefits of Ginseng outweigh most of the negative side effects in taking this herb. Ginseng is believed to be safe for long term use. People have taken Ginseng for 10, 20, even 30 years with no known adverse effects. Many Ginseng users have found that once the maximum health benefits have been reached and vitality restored, they can taper-off on their Ginseng consumption, taking it just a few times a week or even skipping whole. However, you may speak to your doctor first before you decide to start taking Ginseng for health benefits. He can advise you whether you should take Ginseng and if you do how much you should take.
Large doses: However, it has been reported that large doses of Ginseng can cause nausea, high blood pressure, sleeplessness, restlessness, euphoria, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, nose-bleeding, breast pain, vaginal bleeding, sexual arousal, etc.. The recommended daily dose is small and large doses of Ginseng are not recommended or necessary. While Ginseng has many health benefits and has been promising in most studies done, there are some side effects of Ginseng. In some cases it can prevent nausea and dizziness but yet in others, it can increase it. It can also cause fatigue and migraine headaches; although it is rare, it’s still a possibility.
Consult physician: The activity of an adaptogenic herb, such as Ginseng, may interfere with medications or have an adverse effect on individuals with high or low blood pressure. Other disorders, such as heart and liver problems, may contraindicate Ginseng as a supplement to improve health. Always consult a physician before taking Ginseng if you take medications or have health problems.
Lifestyle change: In a lot of cases while taking Ginseng, you will probably have to change your lifestyle habits as well, especially if you are taking them to lower your blood pressure and your sugar levels. Exercise, along with better eating habits (and taking Ginseng) can also lower your levels as well.
Allergy: You also have to consider that since this is an herbal medicine, there is a greater chance that some people may have allergic reactions. This is true especially when using white and red Ginseng. Before you take any of these products, make sure that you do not have an allergic reaction to them.
American Ginseng: Due to the lack of scientific support for its health benefits, American Ginseng cannot currently be recommended for any health condition. If you’re looking to treat or prevent a specific health problem with American Ginseng, make sure to consult your physician before starting your supplement regimen. Use of American Ginseng may lead to a number of side effects, including insomnia, nervousness, rapid heart rate, headache, and low blood sugar. In addition, American Ginseng may produce harmful effects when combined with certain medications (such as blood thinners and drugs used to treat high blood pressure).
In Pregnancy: Because Ginseng has an estrogen-like effect, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take it. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician prior to using Ginseng.
Interactions: If you are taking warfarin, heparin, aspirin, diuretics or are being treated for high blood pressure or any cardiovascular disease, do not take Ginseng because it can conflict with your medication. Do not combine Ginseng with any other herbs or nutrients that are known to increase alertness. Consult your physician in all such cases.
Category: HERBS
