Panax ginseng products are hot items in the American market, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Panax ginseng, also known as red, Korean and Asian ginseng, is attributed to a multitude of health benefits, first and foremost as a natural remedy to help you better cope with stress and enhance mental and physical performance. Panax ginseng is purportedly beneficial to your cardiovascular health and immune system functioning, the UMMC says. Panax ginseng is typically well-tolerated and safe when taken for no more than three weeks at a time. However, although herbal remedies have nonthreatening connotations, they can still produce side effects and unwanted drug interactions. Panax ginseng should be avoided or taken with caution if you have certain medical conditions or take specific medications.
Stimulant Effect
Panax ginseng is known for its stimulating properties, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Anxiety and insomnia are possible side effects. These may be increased if you take it with caffeine or use too much of the herb. Because it can have a stimulating effect, the UMMC stresses that it should not be given to children. The University of Michigan Health System notes that panax ginseng should be taken with extreme caution if you have high blood pressure that's not under control.
For Women Only
Abnormal menstruation and tender breasts are associated with long-term use of panax ginseng, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Don't use panax ginseng if you're pregnant or nursing or have a history of breast cancer, the UMMC advises.
Blood Sugar
Panax ginseng, sometimes used to reduce high blood glucose, can cause low blood sugar, cautions the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. People with diabetes are more likely to experience this side effect, especially if panax ginseng is taken along with other herbs that purportedly lower blood sugar, such as bitter melon and fenugreek. To avoid low blood sugar, make sure to take panax ginseng with food even if you don't have diabetes, the UMMC advises.
Drug Interactions
Panax ginseng should not be used with a number of medications because of the possibility that it may enhance effects or interfere with effectiveness. The UMMC says you should talk to your doctor before taking panax ginseng if you take medications for high blood pressure, heart medications, anticoagulants (blood thinners, to include aspirin), morphine, caffeine and other stimulant drugs, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and drugs for diabetes.
Other
The most common side effects of panax ginseng are sleeplessness, gastric upset and headache, according to NCCAM. But like any other herb, it can cause an allergic reaction. Panax ginseng can increase the risk for mania, according to the UMMC. If you have bipolar disorder, avoid taking it entirely. Because panax ginseng may have some affect on blood clotting, the UMMC also advises that you stop taking it at least seven days before a surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor before you take panax ginseng or another natural remedy to make sure that it's both safe and effective for your specific medical condition.
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