Ginseng root is an herb produced from the ginseng plant. The root contains chemicals that are considered by some to have medicinal properties. Used widely in Asia for thousands of years, ginseng has gained in popularity in the United States in the last few decades and is now widely available in health product stores, pharmacies and groceries in a variety of forms.
Plant
There are two types of ginseng plant. American ginseng, scientific name Panax quinquefolius, is found in the eastern United States. Asian ginseng, or Panax ginseng, is indigenous to central Asia. The plants are closely related and have similar growth habits. They are found wild primarily in shady parts of deciduous forests. The plant is also cultivated for its root. The roots of both species take approximately three years to reach harvestable size.
Description
Ginseng roots average from 3 to 10 inches in length when mature. The mature root is slightly woody in texture. The exterior is relatively smooth with a tan to brown outer skin and a cream to yellow interior. Ginseng roots often have multiple projections from the central root and fine root hairs covering these projections. In some cases, the roots appear to have arms and legs, giving rise to the colloquial name "man root."
Active Ingredients
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, both American and Asian ginseng root contain substances known as ginsenosides, which are purported to possess medicinal properties. These chemicals are sometimes referred to as "adaptogens," medicinal herb constituents that aid in dealing with physical stresses. However, no clinical evidence exists to support any claims that ginseng root serves as an adaptogen.
Uses
Ginseng root is used primarily as a general health tonic and is taken in tablets or capsules, tinctures or elixirs, teas, or as an ingredient in other products such as gums, candies, toothpaste and beverages. Other possible uses include providing antioxidants to help treat heart disorders, the control of blood sugar in diabetes, tumor control in cancer and boosting the immune system, according to MedlinePlus. The list of claims of ginseng's curative properties is long, ranging from treating colds and the flu to increasing mental acuity and sexual performance, although these claims are largely unsubstantiated.
Side Effects and Precautions
The most common side effects of using ginseng root are headache, restlessness, sleep disturbances, gastrointestinal upsets and euphoria. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine recommends that individuals taking medications that lower blood sugar should use ginseng with care, as the root may also lower blood sugar. The University of Maryland Medical Center also suggests that people with high blood pressure, bipolar disorder, a history of breast cancer or breastfeeding women should not use ginseng root. Also, when taking ginseng, be alert for any signs of an allergic reaction.
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