Panax Ginseng Information

Panax ginseng, the Latin name for Asian ginseng, is a well-known herb stemming from ancient Chinese traditional medicine and widely available in the West today. Extracted from roots of the slow-growing ginseng plant, several varieties of the herb are available. According to a study published in Chinese Medicine, the pharmacological benefits of the herb are attributed to chemical components called ginsenosides. Ginseng is considered an alternative or complimentary medicine and according to the Mayo Clinic, more and better research is needed before widely recommending its use.

History

Panax ginseng is at the heart of traditional Asian medicine, having been relied upon for centuries to improve all aspects of health. According to researchers from the Department of Preventive Medicine at Dong-A University in Korea, there are 12 species of the genus Panax, and they grow mainly in Northern Hemispheres including Korea, Northeastern China and Siberia. The Korean researchers point out that the name Panax is connected to the Greek term “Panacea” or cure-all.

Uses

Ginseng is linked to a long list of health claims including increasing physical and mental performance, lowering blood sugar and blood pressure, protecting against heart conditions, boosting the immune system and preventing cancer. Though ginseng has been tested on humans and/or animals for these claims, results are hindered by small or flawed studies. The herb is prepared by drying and ginseng roots for processing into powders, capsules, tablets, teas and topical creams. Ginseng leaves are sometimes used as well.

Research

The National Institutes of Health Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, reports that, “Only a handful of large clinical trials on Asian ginseng have been conducted. Most studies have been small or have had flaws in design and reporting. Some claims for health benefits have been based only on studies conducted in animals.” Yet, the NCCAM supports research on Asian ginseng’s interactions with other herbs, its potential to treat chronic lung infection and Alzheimer’s disease.

Side Effects

Undesirable side effects of ginseng consumption may include headaches, sleep problems, gastrointestinal problems, allergic reactions and menstrual irregularities. However, the Mayo Clinic reports that adverse reactions to the herb are rare and its use is generally safe when taken in recommended dosages.

Other Considerations

The NCCAM warns that Siberian ginseng is not a true form of ginseng. It does not contain the ginsenosides present in Panax ginseng. Also, herbs and supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, concentration and strength of supplements may vary, contaminants may be present and safety cannot be guaranteed. Consult with a qualified health care provider before taking ginseng in any form.