Ginseng: for Health and Strength

In North America and Asia, ginseng was traditionally used for treating a variety of illnesses. In Chinese medicine, ginseng was more frequently used for general preventive purposes.

Whereas ginseng was formerly supposed to be confined to Chinese Tartary, it is now is known to be also a native of North America ( species Panax quinquefolium after the five-leaf formation common to the species), and was used by the native North Americans. Chinese Ginseng is a larger plant, but presents practically the same appearance and habits of growth.

Asian ginseng, which includes Korean, Manchurian, Vietnamese and Chinese ginseng, is considered to be very "yang", or warm, and is often used for relatively limited periods of time. It contains roughly half the number of active ginsenocides found in American ginseng, which is considered to be cooler, or more "yin", and better suited for long term usage. For this reason American ginseng has become very prized in Asia, and most American ginseng is imported to Asian markets. Siberian ginseng is different again and is described separately here.

Used regularly, Ginseng can regulate the menstrual cycle, improve hormone balance and tone the uterus to improve the ability of the foetus to implant after conception.

Ginseng may help the body deal with physically and mentally stressful exposures such as heat, cold, physical exhaustion, viruses, bacteria, chemicals, extreme working conditions, noise, and pollution. By strengthening the system, it may also help prevent illness.

The anti-stress effect seems to derive from its antioxidant and steroid metabolism activity on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal endocrine function. It improves adaptation to diminished blood flow to the brain. Ginseng also produces an increase of amine nerve transmitter substances in the brain and adrenal gland

Recent research has clinically demonstrated that regular use of ginseng will help to increase physical and mental performance, withstand stress and boost immune functioning. Ginseng has been approved by medical authorities in Germany as an invigorating tonic for fatigue and to protect against and recover from illness. Research has largely supported the use of Ginseng to maintain health and strengthen the system rather than to treat particular disorders.

Ginseng should be used only after consultation with your health care professional if you are suffering from high or low blood pressure, fever, cancer, diabetes, heart problems or allergies.

Ginseng may lower blood sugar levels. Diabetics must monitor blood levels carefully while using this product. Also, care should be exercised if taken in conjunction with Ginger (in large doses), Diamana or Fenugreek which also effect blood sugar levels. Consult your licensed naturopath if in doubt.

Some authorities have suggested that medicinal quantities of panax ginseng may increase the effects of synthetic hormones in susceptible women, e.g. women taking HRT or the contraceptive pill.

Ginseng can also increase the stimulant effects of caffeine (as in coffee, tea, and cola).

Ginseng is not recommended for use during pregnancy.

It is unknown if this product is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this product is not recommended.

Ian Finlayson is webmaster of The Herb Spiral, a site committed to presenting balanced information on the benefits of medicinal herbs. Please visit the site for more information on Panax Ginseng