Panax ginseng is an herb native to Asia. The dried, unprocessed root is white ginseng, while the steamed, heat-dried root is red ginseng. People take red Panax ginseng extractum for many reasons, including to enhance memory and mental function, and improve athletic performance, strength and stamina. Red Panax ginseng also may be useful for treating erectile dysfunction, lowering blood sugar and stimulating the immune system. Some risks are involved with taking red Panax ginseng extract, but significant side effects are rare.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Most people do not experience side effects when taking red Panax ginseng, but some individuals have reported negative gastrointestinal effects. As listed by the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) and eMedTV, these include reduced appetite, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Hypoglycemia
Because red Panax ginseng may reduce blood sugar levels, people taking this herb for other reasons should be cautious about blood sugar becoming too low (hypoglycemia). This effect may be more common in people with diabetes, as noted by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Individuals with diabetes may need to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely when using red Panax ginseng extractum. This is especially important for anyone also taking medications to lower blood sugar such as metformin or insulin, or herbs to lower blood sugar such as bitter melon or fenugreek.
Allergic Reaction
Rarely, some people may experience an allergic reaction to red Panax ginseng, as noted by the NCCAM. Signs may include an itchy rash or hives, trouble breathing, chest tightness, and facial or mouth swelling. An allergic reaction to red Panax ginseng extractum should be considered a medical emergency.
Other Risks
Some people have reported breast pain and tenderness, menstrual irregularities and high blood pressure when taking red Panax ginseng, according to the NCCAM. The components of these ginseng supplements were not analyzed, however, so the effects may have been caused by another substance or contaminant in the product. Herbal supplements and remedies are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as drugs are, and when not provided by a reputable manufacturer, may contain additional herbs, drugs, or other substances.
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