American Ginseng Tea Benefits

American ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, is similar to Asian ginseng, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Gathered once by Native Americans as an herbal remedy, today you can find American ginseng tea in health food stores. Read the label to avoid buying the Asian variety. The root of the American ginseng plant crudely resembles the human body, adding to the folklore of the herb. Steep the dried, chopped root in hot water to make an herbal tea. Because herbs may contain medicinal properties, consult your doctor before using them to treat medical conditions.

General Health Benefits

Unlike many herbal remedies, numerous small studies surround the American and Asian forms of ginseng, according to Medline Plus, a branch of the National Institutes of Health. However, rigorous clinical studies are needed to confirm these results.
Among the potential health benefits from drinking American ginseng tea are reduced risk of heart disease, lower blood sugar levels and improved cell activity in anemia patients. The herbal tea may also be beneficial in preventing asthma attacks by acting as a bronchodilator, a substance that helps open constricted airways in the lungs.
American ginseng tea may promote liver health and reduce general fatigue.

Mental/Emotional Benefits

Children who suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may benefit from drinking American ginseng tea, but until more testing confirms these benefits, parents should only use the herb under the supervision of a doctor.
Testing is ongoing in the use of American ginseng for treating dementia patients. Medline Plus reports that a combination of American ginseng and gingko biloba may boost critical thinking and the ability to learn and retain facts.
Postmenopausal women may benefit from consuming the tea to reduce anxiety and to improve their general mood and outlook on life.

Sexual/Reproductive Health Benefits

A 2006 clinical study published in the "Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy," found that an herbal combination, which included American ginseng, was beneficial in increasing sexual awareness in menopausal women. Additional testing with only American ginseng is necessary to confirm the benefits of the individual herb..
Follow the dosage instructions on the package or consult a certified herbalist for recommendations.