Ginseng is one of the most popular herbs which is added to different types of health drinks, energy tonics, fruit juices and vitamin supplements due to its potential benefits like enhancing energy levels and ability to fight stress. These health drinks are popular among teenagers, but often these drinks contain very little quantity of this wonder herb. Panax Ginseng is also referred to as the Asian Ginseng which has been used in Chinese medicines for over thousands of years for longitivity and to enhance quality of life. This Chinese Ginseng is different than American Ginseng (P.quinquefolius) and Siberian Ginseng (E. Senticosus ), which has completely different effects on human health.
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| Ginseng has a great influence on the endocrine system |
Ginseng Health Benefits: Prevents Cancer, Boosts Immunity and Treats Impotence
The medicinal part of the Ginseng herb is its slow growing root which contains thirteen different ginsenosides, which are the active ingredients of the herb. In addition the herb contains panxans, which are substances believed to lower blood sugar levels and polysaccharides, which play a crucial role in boosting the immune response. The major health benefits of Ginseng herb include,
- A large scale study conducted in
Korea - Ginseng plays a crucial role in regulating the production of stress hormones by support the endocrinal organs namely the pituitary gland and the adrenal glands. This enhances the ability of an individual to combat stress and also is effective in treating fatigue and feeling of tiredness.
- Ginseng has a direct action on smooth muscle tissue and hence is considered effective in management of erectile dysfunction and impotency in males. Some claims indicate that this herb increases testosterone and sperm production in the body and thereby enhances fertility in men.
Optimum Dosage of Ginseng Supplement: Precautions while taking Ginseng Supplements
Though the use of the herb is rarely associated with side effects, there are certain factors that need to be taken into consideration while using this herb as a supplement,
- Though ginseng may be available in a variety of forms including powder, tincture, tablets and capsules, it is always recommended to consume standardized products that contain about 7% ginsenosides. Ginseng powder and tinctures are considered more potent than other forms of the herbal supplement
- Avoid ginseng when pregnant or when one suffers from uncontrolled hypertension. Ginseng also needs to be avoided in individuals with cardiac arrhythmias
- Ideal dose of ginseng herb ranges between 100 mg- 250 mg per day. However it can be increased to twice the dosage, especially in individuals recovering from a chronic illness or a major surgery.
- Side effects associated with ginseng include headaches, stomach upsets, insomnia and restlessness. In females ginseng is often associated with breast tenderness and irregular menstrual bleeding.
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| Ginseng helps control depression and impotence |
Ginseng Supplements for Depression: Ginseng controls Blood Sugar Levels and Diabetes
In addition Ginseng Supplements play a crucial role in management of depression and diabetes,
- In a study conducted on individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes, it was observed that 200 mg of ginseng supplement each day helped lower the blood sugar levels considerably compared to those on placebo
- In another study it was observed that ginseng can stimulate the production of endorphins, which are ‘feel good’ hormones which play a crucial role in management of depression