Health Benefits of Ginseng, Uses And Its Side Effects
Last Updated: Sep 11, 2020
Ginseng is one of the most popular herbal medicines in the world. Different varieties of ginseng root have been used for various treatments in Asia and North America for centuries. Ginseng has traditionally been used for a number of medical conditions. There are two main types of ginseng: Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius).
Ginseng offers benefits in terms of the sexual performance of men and women. In Ayurveda ginseng is used to treat erectile dysfunction, impotence, and other sexual problems. Also used to boost immune systems and helps in diabetes, various energy booster drinks include ginseng as main ingredients.
Ginseng Benefits
One of the most promising herbal remedies for diabetes in recent years is the use of ginseng. It has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels. By regulating the intake or absorption of glucose, ginseng is able to protect the body from the sudden spikes and drops in blood sugar that can make diabetes so dangerous, or that can lead to the development of the disease.
Different types of ginseng are available in the market such as red ginseng, white ginseng, etc. Ginseng supplements are available in different forms such as tablets, liquids, powder, you can easily buy these supplements from your local medical stores but always remember to consult a doctor first.
Nutritional Value of Ginseng
American ginseng isn’t ready for use until it’s grown for about six years; It’s endangered in the wild, so now it’s grown on farms to protect it from overharvesting. The American ginseng plant has leaves that grow in a circular shape about the stem.
Ginseng flowers are yellow-green and shaped like an umbrella; They grow in the center of the plant and produce red berries. The plant gets wrinkles around the neck with age — older plants are more valuable and more expensive because ginseng benefits are more abundant in aged roots.
Ginseng contains various pharmacological components, including a series of tetracyclic triterpenoid saponins (ginsenosides), polyacetylenes, polyphenolic compounds and acidic polysaccharides.
Health Benefits of Ginseng
Mentioned below are the best health benefits of consuming ginseng benefits. This herb was used for centuries in Chinese and Indian medical practices. In Ayurveda, ginseng is used to improve sexual performance, hair regrowth, increase libido, and also acts as antioxidants.
This amazing herb also acts as an amazing energy booster and brain function. Ginseng available in different forms such as pills, capsules, powder, etc. Here we also discuss how you can use ginseng in different forms and side effects. Also read out cultivation details of these herbs.
Ginseng used as an antioxidant
Primarily, Ginseng is used as an antioxidant, which can prevent the negative effects of free radicals throughout the body, which are the dangerous by-products of cellular metabolism that are capable of damaging healthy cells.
Ginseng helps in preventing chronic diseases like heart disease, as well as certain types of cancer. Furthermore, it has been linked to preventing the formation of maltol, another dangerous substance produced by the body that can accelerate medical conditions.
Ginseng used as cognitive stimulant
All over the world, ginseng's ability as a cognitive stimulant is recognized and valued. Consuming ginseng not only stimulate cognitive abilities of focus and concentration, but also stimulates neural activity that can be difficult to achieve in older ages.
The activity of antioxidants to stimulate these pathways prevent the accumulation of plaque and free radicals in the brain, effectively preventing the onset of dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive disorders.
Ginseng for weight loss
Dried or powdered ginseng, when consumed, can quickly suppress the “hunger hormones” from triggering any cravings, thereby helping people in their weight loss efforts from cheating or snacking between meals, while delivering a range of other health benefits at the same time.
You can start drinking ginseng in various forms to manage your weight and lose some weight. You can also boil some ginseng root in water and drink to lose weight. Red ginseng and Siberian ginseng are mostly used for weight loss management.
Ginseng Improves Male & Female Sexual Desire
One of the most common traditional uses of ginseng was as an aphrodisiac. Powdered ginseng was believed to be able to increase male sexual performance and boost libido. In modern times, it is commonly recommended for men suffering from erectile dysfunction, as a natural solution to the problem.
Ginseng helps both men and women to improve sexual performance. People suffering from a decline in libido and not able to enjoy a good erection can use ginseng supplements. It is good for sperm production or sperm count also its motility and quality. Ginseng also helps in sperm preservation or long erection.
Ginseng reduces menstrual discomfort
Ginseng is often prescribed for women suffering from extreme menstrual discomfort and cramps. It is a soothing and anti-inflammatory substance. Ginseng can also help to reduce the mood swings commonly associated with menstruation and the menopausal change in middle-aged women.
Ginseng prevents male baldness
One of the natural carbohydrates found in ginseng has been directly linked with the prevention of alopecia and male pattern baldness. By applying ginseng salves or applying the spice directly to the scalp, the health of hair follicle beds can be improved, dandruff can be prevented and hair loss can be reduced significantly.
Ginseng helps stimulates blood flow
Ginseng stimulates blood flow throughout the body. This is particularly helpful for the skin, as it prevents aging and grants a glow to the skin. Ginseng is valued for its ability to reduce the signs of aging It also detoxifies the skin and increases the immune response of the skin.
Ginseng improves energy levels
Ginseng affects the body’s nervous system in many ways, including stimulating the metabolism and boosting energy levels. Both of these effects can help to reduce stress and anxiety in the body.
More importantly, the adaptogens found within ginseng have been shown to alter the hormonal levels of the body, which can also help to lower stress hormone levels and achieve a better balance of mood.
Ginseng used for its anti-tumor properties
Research has shown a direct decrease in the spread and symptoms of colorectal cancer with the regular inclusion of it in one’s diet. Early research on other types of cancer show anti-tumor properties, but these studies are still in the early stages and debate still exists on the true medicinal benefit of ginseng in terms of cancer.
Ginseng reduces high blood pressure
Ginseng is also known to counter fatigue and also high blood pressure. Korean red ginseng and Siberian ginseng best to control hypertension.
Ginseng used in countering hepatitis C
Research has shown that ginseng can prove to be beneficial in countering hepatitis C. Ginseng helps in smoothing the functionality of the liver, it offers therapeutic effects against HCV and liver cancer
Uses of Ginseng Benefits
Ginseng is well known for its many benefits in diabetics because it can decrease blood sugar and serum cortisol levels. In vitro, ginseng has been shown to increase the lifespan of cells for an anti-aging effect.
Ginseng may reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels plus it stimulates the immune system by enhancing white blood cell and antibody functions.
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Side-Effects & Allergies of Ginseng Benefits
Side effects from ginseng are usually mild. It can cause nervousness and insomnia. Long-term usage or taking high doses can result in headaches, dizziness, stomach upset, etc.
Ginseng can interact with warfarin and some medicines for depression. Caffeine may amplify the effects of ginseng. Women who use ginseng regularly may experience changes in their menstrual pattern.
Ginseng may lead to some allergic reactions as well. Doctors suggest that in order to avoid side effects, ginseng must be used only a few weeks at a time, followed by a break and not at a stretch.
Cultivation of Ginseng Benefits
Ginseng originated in China in the 17th century. It soon became revered due to its rejuvenating and strengthening effects. Ginseng seeds sprout only after two years of natural storage. The plant must remain whole in order to grow. Seeds planted in the fall will sprout in the spring. It is fairly easy to grow at home and can be very profitable. Ginseng farms are large but it can also be grown at home in pots.
References
- Lee CH, Kim JH. A review on the medicinal potentials of ginseng and ginsenosides on cardiovascular diseases. Journal of ginseng research. 2014 Jul 1;38(3):161-6. [Cited 26 June 2019]. Available from:
- ion Center RR. A review of the properties and clinical effects of ginseng. American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 1973;1(2):263-70. [Cited 26 June 2019]. Available from:
- Leung KW, Wong AS. Pharmacology of ginsenosides: a literature review. Chinese medicine. 2010 Dec;5(1):20. [Cited 26 June 2019]. Available from:
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