Natural herbal supplements such as ginseng are associated with gentle, curative effects without the unpleasantness of side effects or the contraindications associated with some conventional medications and other herbs. Ginseng, more specifically panax (Asian) ginseng, is a dietary supplement touted for its use to enhance mental and physical prowess, as well as properties that make it a good immune system booster. However, the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS) and other educational organizations all agree: ginseng products and high blood pressure may well be a dangerous combination.
Properties
Asian ginseng contains many active constituents, notes the UMHS, most notably 13 different ginsenosides, which are thought to have an effect on stress, intellectual performance and physical stamina. Others include panaxans, believed to lower blood sugar; and polysaccharides, which purportedly support the immune system. Asian ginseng has a stimulant effect, unlike its close cousin, American ginseng, which is more calming, states the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Neither type of ginseng is appropriate for people with high blood pressure, unless taken with a doctor's consent.
Effects on Blood Pressure
The UMMC describes Asian ginseng's effect on blood pressure as "complicated." Some studies conducted on the herb for this purpose appear to suggest that it can lower blood pressure, while others indicate that it increases blood pressure. The UMMC notes that, theoretically, ginseng may lower blood pressure when taken at suggested doses, having the opposite effect when the dosage is increased. Don't take ginseng for high blood pressure unless your doctor advises you to do so, cautions the UMMC.
Stimulant Effects
Asian ginseng can have the same effect as a stimulant, and, in fact, this is one of the rare but possible side effects associated with the herb, according to the UMMC. For this reason, people with uncontrolled high blood pressure should approach ginseng with extreme caution and not use it unless under the close supervision of a health care practitioner, states the UMHS. Asian ginseng's stimulant effects may be exacerbated when taken with caffeine or when more than the recommended dose is taken.
Drug Interactions
Asian ginseng may interact with medications used to treat high blood pressure, states the UMMC. It should not be used without a doctor's approval if you're taking blood pressure drugs known as ACE inhibitors. These include: captopril, benazepril, enalapril, lisinopril, fosinopril, ramipril, perindopril, quinapril, moexipril and trandolapril. Asian ginseng may also interact with calcium channel blockers used to keep blood pressure in check, specifically amlodipine, diltiazem and nifedipine.
Bottom Line
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), the benefits of Asian ginseng are not yet fully understood. Research results are inconclusive, and some studies had design and reporting flaws. Many studies tested ginseng only on animals, not on humans. Before using ginseng or any other dietary supplement, ask your physician if it's appropriate for your health status and the medical condition you which to address.
