Three common types of ginseng are used for medicinal purposes. The MedicinalHerbInfo.org web site lists them as American ginseng, Asian ginseng and Siberian ginseng, and each has different medicinal properties and uses. Be sure to consult with your health care provider before taking ginseng or any other medicinal herb to treat kidney stones.
Ginseng & Kidney Stones
American ginseng is used primarily to treat colds and flu, diabetes and to boost the immune system, according to the website of the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. The site describes the uses for Asian ginseng as immune stimulation, as a clotting aid and to treat diabetes and sexual dysfunction. Siberian ginseng is listed as being used to treat colds and flu, herpes viral infection and to improve mental performance. None of the three forms of ginseng is commonly used to treat kidney stones and should not be used for this purpose.
Potential Side Effects
According to the UMMC site, American ginseng can have high blood pressure, insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, diarrhea, vomiting, headache or nosebleed as possible side effects. The site also lists Siberian ginseng's side effects as high blood pressure, drowsiness, vomiting, headache, irregular heart rhythm, and nosebleed. The website for the National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine lists headaches and sleep and gastrointestinal problems as possible side effects of Asian ginseng. There is no information about how any of these forms of ginseng affect a person with kidney stones.
Possible Interactions
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center website warns that Asian ginseng should not be taken with MAOIs, a form of antidepressants, or with anticoagulants, or blood thinners, or diabetes medications. The UMMC site cautions against taking Siberian ginseng while also taking blood thinners, sedatives or medications to treat heart conditions. The UMMC site also lists American ginseng's possible interactions with medications for diabetes, blood thinners, MAOIs, morphine, stimulants and antipsychotic drugs. Definitely avoid taking American ginseng if you take any of these types of medications.
Forms Used
The root of the ginseng plants are the portions used to make medicinal preparations. All three forms of ginseng are available in extract, capsule or tea. Be sure to check the packaging for proper dosing instructions. Ginseng is not recommended for use to treat kidney stones.
Considerations
Taking any supplement or herb can cause an allergic reaction, even if you've taken it before without reaction. When taking ginseng, be sure to watch for swelling of the lips, tongue or face, as well as rashes or hives. If any of these symptoms occur, stop taking ginseng and contact your health care provider.
