American ginseng and Panax ginseng, more commonly called Asian ginseng, belong to the same plant family, known as Araliaceae, but treat different health ailments. Both types of ginseng come in powder, liquid extract, tablet and capsule forms. Check with your health care provider before taking any type of ginseng supplements.
Plant Characteristics
Asian ginseng, or Panax ginseng, grows in China, Korea and Japan, while American ginseng, or Panax quinquefolius, naturally occurs in the rich, moist woodlands of North America. Both ginseng varieties bear green leaves, yellow-green flowers and bright red berries. Panax ginseng and American ginseng both feature fleshy, light yellow to pale brown roots. Once the ginseng plant reaches about six years of age, manufacturers cultivate and dry the gnarled roots to make health supplements.
History
Asian cultures have cultivated Panax ginseng for over 2,000 years. Ancient Chinese doctors thought Panax ginseng was a miracle herb that could cure a wide variety of health problems including tumors, fatigue, vomiting, anxiety and old age. Panax ginseng was so valued in China that only the emperor could harvest the plants. Native American cultures traditionally used American ginseng to treat infertility, fever, indigestion, appetite loss and headaches.
Benefits
Ginseng plants are often called adaptogens, which means they help the body deal with physical, emotional, mental and environmental stresses. Both Panax and American ginseng roots contain volatile oils, flavonoids and saponins known as ginsenosides. Panax ginseng seems to act as a stimulant, while American ginseng acts more like a relaxant.
Panax Ginseng Uses
The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that Panax ginseng might boost your immune system, reduce your risk of cancer, improve your sense of well-being and increase your mental performance. The antioxidants found in Panax ginseng might help improve cardiovascular health as well. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine explains that this type of ginseng might help treat various sexual problems, such as premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Panax ginseng might also help reduce your blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels, but more research is needed. Consume Panax ginseng only with your doctor's approval.
American Ginseng Uses
American ginseng might act as an antioxidant, boost your immune system and help relieve the symptoms of inflammatory diseases. MayoClinic.com reports that American ginseng might help kids suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, but more evidence is needed to support this claim. Talk with your health care provider before taking American ginseng supplements.
Cautions
Side effects to Panax ginseng and American ginseng are rare but might include insomnia, vomiting, headaches and anxiety. Do not to take either type of ginseng if you suffer from type 2 diabetes. While some studies find that ginseng supplements lower blood sugar levels, others indicate these herbs actually increase the levels. American ginseng supplements might interfere with the effects of blood thinning medications, anti-psychotic medications and stimulants prescribed for ADHD. Panax ginseng supplements might interact poorly with blood pressure medications.
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