Ginseng refers to a group of natural adaptogenic herbs native to Siberia, Asia, and some parts of the United States. They are used to help the body deal with stress, anxiety, and fatigue better. There are three types of Ginseng that includes Panax Ginseng, American Ginseng, and Siberian Ginseng. The term panax is derived from the Greek words “panacea” which means “cure all”, referring to the herb’s ability to produce many health benefits. Panax ginseng can be found in the cold and moist mountains of Russia, China, and Korea. American Ginseng grows in the shady woodlands of Ohio and other states in eastern United States. Siberian ginseng or eleuthero ginseng differs in composition from the first two ginseng types, but is still considered as a rejuvenating herb.
The most valuable part of Ginseng is the roots which also resembles the human body. Ginseng roots contain proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, fatty acids, lipids, vitamins, minerals, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compunds, polyacetylenes, and terpenes. According to studies, these active ingredients of Ginseng stimulate the adrenal glands to produce hormone that can fight both physical and emotional stress. Even before, the Chinese have been using ginseng extract as tonic. Today, ginseng supplements are used all over the world not just to relieve stress but also to prevent and treat many diseases.
Ginseng Benefits
- Increases one’s ability to deal with stress and anxiety.
- Enhances immune system function that offers better resistance against common infections such as colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.
- Regular use of ginseng supplements can treat erectile dysfunction in men.
- Ginseng can speed up wound healing. Panax ginseng is said to be used in the Vietnam War to treat the wounded soldiers.
- Ginseng can be used to treat coughs and other lung problems.
- Ginseng is considered as an aphrodisiac that helps in enhancing sexual appetite.
- Ginseng can increase mental sharpness.
- Ginseng can lower blood sugar levels and may be very helpful to patients with type 2 diabetes.
- Ginseng can enhance the effects of antibiotics and flu vaccine.
Ginseng Side Effects
Ginseng supplements are generally safe for consumption and its side effects aren’t life threatening. The most common complain about Ginseng is that it has an unpleasant taste. During the first few days of regular use, you may experience nervousness and excitability that will gradually disappear. There are also reports of decreased levels of concentration and low blood sugar levels. Serious side effects are rare and it includes asthma attacks, hypertension, palpitations and uterine bleeding in post menopausal women. Ginseng has an estrogen-like effect to women and it is not advised to be taken by pregnant and lactating mothers. It is also not for use with patients who have clotting problems and are taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin.
