Allergies are the sixth leading cause of illness in United States, affecting 40 to 50 million Americans, according to Natural Nurse.com. There are a variety of allergic reactions and environmental, food and drug allergies are some of the most common forms of allergies. Ginseng, a herb used in folk medicine, may provide symptom relief to allergic sufferers. However, if you consider taking this supplement, you should first talk to your health-care provider.
About Ginseng
Ginseng is a short herb which bears yellow or red fruits. The root contains ginsenosides, which are the key active ingredients. According to Drugs.com, ginseng is probably the most common medicinal herb used in traditional medicine, and has been used for more than 2,000 years for a variety of conditions. They include boosting the immune system, increasing energy, keeping the heart and brain healthy and possibly, for cancer as well. In a few clinical studies, ginseng was also found beneficial in relieving food and environmental allergies.
Food Allergies
Ginseng roots may help prevent food allergies, according to a study published in October 2010 issue of "Journal of Ethnopharmacology". This study was conducted in animal subjects and the authors found ginseng beneficial for improving certain markers of allergy and inflammation, thus concluding that this herb may reduce the risk of developing food allergies.
Environmental Allergies
A combination of ginseng and few other herbs effectively reduced allergic biomarkers and may help managing allergies, according to a study published in December 2008 issue of "International Immunopharmacology." This was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial that involved 60 participants suffering from environmental allergies.
Side Effects
Ginseng's side effects are temporary and mild. It may cause increased blood pressure and nervousness. It is not recommended to take ginseng for long periods of time. The common side effects are drowsiness, headaches, sleep problems and joint pains. Ginseng may also lower blood sugar levels, warns Drugs.com. Thus, diabetics should use this herb cautiously.
Dosage
Daily dosages of ginseng are around 400 mg for adults, either as a single dose or in divided dosages. Your health-care provider may adjust this dose based on the severity of your allergy symptoms. Ginseng is not recommended in pregnant and nursing mothers, as it may cause hormonal changes, warns Drugs.com.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health-care provider to find out optimal dosage of ginseng for your condition and to learn about possible herb or drug interactions. Keep in mind that ginseng should not replace conventional anti-allergy drugs and is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat allergies.
References
- Drugs.com: Ginseng
- " International Immunopharmacology"; Effects of a New Nutraceutical Ingredient on Allergen-induced Sulphidoleukotrienes Production and CD63 Expression in Allergic Subjects; M. Caruso et al; December, 2008
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Effects of Red Ginseng Extract on Allergic Reactions to Food in Balb/c Mice; M. Sumiyoshi et al; October, 2010
- Natural Nurse.com: Allergies- An Integrative Approach
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