Korean Ginseng Warnings

Korean Ginseng Warnings
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Korean ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, is usually sold as an extract in the form of either capsules or liquid. Concentrations vary anywhere from 5 percent to 25 percent of ginsenosides. The higher the concentration, the higher the risk of side effects or reactions occurring, especially if you're already sensitive to it. Korean ginseng sold in the United States is often diluted with blenders, add-ons and inactive components, so it's important to read the label of the product you're buying. Only choose products that are 100 percent ginseng, with no added preservatives or chemicals.

Mood Changes

Korean ginseng can affect your mood. How and how much depends on each individual, so it's important to monitor changes from the first dose. Common reactions include nervousness, anxiety and euphoria.

Tremors

Panax ginseng can affect your nervous system, causing insomnia, hypertension, tremors and shakiness and muscle tightness.

Estrogen Increase

According to DiagnoseMe.com, Korean ginseng is a mild strogen and it can cause problems in women with a history or at risk for breast cancer or PMS. Women who are taking hormones should also avoid Korean ginseng.

Drug Interaction

According to Cell Health Makeover, Korean ginseng can interact with a number of prescription drugs, making it a dangerous addition without medical supervision. Korean ginseng should not be taken along with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents and asthma medication. Panang ginseng also interferes with the metabolic processing of diabetes drugs, including insulin injection and oral tablets.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Nov 22, 2010

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