Asian ginseng

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

<languages /><translate> The aromatic root of perennial herbs of Panax ginseng.

  • Ginseng, used in traditional Chinese medicine and available as a nutritional supplement, is classified as an adaptogenic herb with multiple effects, many of them are regulatory in nature.
  • It contains a complex mixture of saponins, ginsenosides and panaxosides.
  • Although the mechanism of action is unclear, ginseng is reported to enhance the immune system and reduce fatigue.
Ginseng in Korea
Ginseng in Korea

Other names[edit | edit source]

Asian ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Korean ginseng, red ginseng, white ginseng Latin Names: Panax ginseng

Background[edit | edit source]

  • Asian ginseng is native to the Far East, including China, Korea, and far-eastern Siberia.
  • It has been used for health-related purposes in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
  • Asian ginseng is one of several types of ginseng.
  • The terms red ginseng and white ginseng refer to Asian ginseng roots prepared in two different ways.

Root of ginseng[edit | edit source]

  • The part of the plant most frequently used for health purposes is the root.
  • Asian ginseng taken orally is promoted for increasing resistance to environmental stress and as a general tonic to improve well-being.
Ginseng in Korea
Ginseng in Korea

Dietary supplement[edit | edit source]

  • Asian ginseng is also promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of other reasons—to improve physical stamina, concentration, and memory; stimulate immune function; slow the aging process; and relieve various other health problems, such as respiratory and cardiovascular disorders, depression, anxiety, and menopausal hot flashes.
  • Topical use (applied to the skin) of Asian ginseng as part of a multi-ingredient preparation is promoted for premature ejaculation.

Asian ginseng contains many substances; those thought to be most important are called ginsenosides (or panaxosides).

Evidence[edit | edit source]

  • Results from a 2013 review of 65 randomized controlled trials suggest that Asian ginseng may help improve glucose metabolism and lower blood sugar.

However, the scientists who published the review noted some issues with the studies they examined: that many were not high quality and that ginseng preparations were diverse.

Ginseng root
Ginseng root

Safety[edit | edit source]

  • Short-term oral use (up to 6 months) of Asian ginseng in recommended amounts appears to be safe for most people.
  • When used short-term as part of a specific multi-ingredient topical skin application, Asian ginseng is likely safe.

Safety after prolonged repetitive topical use has not been determined.

  • Insomnia (trouble sleeping) is the herb’s most common side effect.

Others include menstrual problems, breast pain, increased heart rate, high or low blood pressure, headache, loss of appetite, and digestive problems.

  • Some evidence suggests that Asian ginseng might affect blood sugar.

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Asian ginseng Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD