Ginseng and Acne

Ginseng, an ancient herb, is the subject of much folklore regarding its therapeutic actions and uses. The plant is also called panax ginseng, derived from the Latin word panacea, meaning cure-all. While further scientific evidence is needed to confirm ginseng's efficacy as a blemish blocker, the herb has received attention as an herbal remedy for the treatment of acne outbreaks.

Please consult your physician before attempting herbal remedies at home.

Identification

A low-growing perennial plant native to China, North Korea and Siberia and cultivated in North America, ginseng has a straight stem bearing three leaves, small, yellow flowers and red berries. Now extremely rare in the wild, ginseng's human-shaped roots are harvested for medicinal use after the plant reaches four to six years of age.

History

The Chinese have used ginseng since 3,000 B.C. Native to the mountains of Manchuria, the herb was so revered that wars were waged for control of the forests in which it flourished. Father Pierre Jartoux, a Jesuit priest, began investigating the merits of Chinese ginseng in 1709. According to the website Botanical.com, Jartoux wrote, "Physicians deem it a necessity in all their best prescriptions, and regard it as a remediable agency in fatigue and the infirmities of old age. Only the Emperor has the right to collect the roots." In 1716, Jartoux began cultivating American ginseng with the Iroquois Indians, beginning a huge worldwide shipping trade that lasted until the end of the 19th century.

Benefits

In China, ginseng has a reputation as a stimulant, a male aphrodisiac and a tonic herb for athletes and the elderly. In the West, a wide range of therapeutic applications includes replenishing energy, increasing concentration and lowering blood cholesterol.

As an acne remedy, ginseng provides antioxidant and liver-protecting effects helpful in blocking blemishes. Because ginseng supports liver function, removing impurities through the digestive system rather than through the complexion, toxins have less chance to cause acne outbreaks. Ginseng also relieves pain and infection associated with pus-filled pimples.

Additionally, according to the website NaturalWaystoGetRidofAcne.com, Siberian ginseng reduces hormonal imbalances that can cause acne flare-ups. Moreover, the website states, "This herb assists the immune system which will also help in preventing acne eruptions."

Use

Ginseng comes in powder, soup, tea, tincture, tablet or capsule form. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 200 mg ginseng extract capsules one to three times a day for two weeks on, two weeks off.

Considerations

Although short-term use of ginseng appears relatively safe, consumption of large amounts may cause headaches, insomnia, elevated blood pressure, dizziness, skin rash, itching, breast tenderness, fever and gastrointestinal problems. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid ginseng, as should children and diabetics. According to the book "Prescription for Herbal Healing," do not take ginseng for two weeks prior to elective surgery.