Chinese red ginseng, whose scientific name is Panax ginseng, also is called Asian ginseng and Korean ginseng. Chinese red ginseng is a root that is light tan in color with a gnarled appearance resembling a human body. It is a slow-growing plant found on the slopes of mountains and has been cultivated for centuries for its purported medicinal properties, such as lowering blood glucose levels, but there are some side effects.
Significance
Considered to have stimulating yang properties, Chinese red ginseng has been used for more than 2,000 in traditional Chinese medicine. It contains substances called ginsenosides that are thought to be responsible for giving ginseng its medicinal properties. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that animal studies have shown that ginsenosides might have some anti-cancer, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects. Older ginseng plants are the most prized, so the root is not harvested for at least six years. The age of the plant is determined by looking at the wrinkles around the neck of the root. After cultivation, the root can be used whole or dried and ground up to make capsules, extracts and teas.
Uses of Chinese Red Ginseng
One of the most popular herbs worldwide, Chinese red ginseng is used to treat a host of medical problems. More studies are needed, and some are being funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, because not all claims have been backed up by scientific proof. This herb is used to improve immune function following illness, treat menopause, relieve muscle inflammation after strenuous exercise, increase stamina in athletic performance, treat erectile dysfunction and increase fertility, and lower blood sugar and blood pressure. It also is used to increase alertness and improve memory, and might reduce the risk of pancreatic, lung, liver, ovarian and stomach cancers.
Associated Side Effects
The effects of Chinese red ginseng are likely due to a complex combination of interactions. Taken in the recommended dosage of 200 mg to 2 g, depending on the source, Chinese red ginseng is considered relatively safe. The proper way to take the herb is in cycles of two to three weeks, with at least one week of "rest" between cycles. The side effects associated with Chinese red ginseng include headaches, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, breast tenderness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth and changes in appetite. Although rare, severe allergic reactions have been reported. The signs of an allergic reaction include itching, hives, wheezing and swelling of the mouth and throat. The use of Chinese red ginseng should be discontinued immediately if any symptoms of an allergic reaction develop.
Precautions
Always read the label when purchasing Chinese red ginseng so as not to confuse it with American ginseng or Siberian ginseng. It is best to obtain the herb from a reputable manufacturer and take it under the supervision of your physician. It interacts with some medications, including diabetes medications, ACE inhibitors, calcium-channel blockers, blood thinners and morphine. Inform your physician of all the medications and herbal supplements you are taking before starting treatment with this one.
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