Ginseng is a thin, broad-leafed herb characterized by thick, fleshy roots. There are three primary types of ginseng -- American ginseng, which grows in the northern United States; Siberian ginseng, which is found in western Asia; and Asian ginseng, which grows in Korea and China. All three types have a similar chemical makeup. This herb may provide several benefits to help combat the effects of diabetes. Check with your physician before treating diabetes with ginseng. This herb should not replace medical attention and proper diet for diabetes management.
Glucose Control
Chronic elevations of blood glucose are a common complication of diabetes. The pancreas cannot efficiently produce or use insulin, a substance that transports glucose to cells for energy and repair. High blood-glucose levels may contribute to fainting, dizziness, headaches and cognitive impairment in diabetics. Ginseng contains chemicals called ginsenosides, which may help lower blood-glucose levels, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing."
Cholesterol Control
High blood cholesterol is common among diabetics. Elevated levels of cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoproteins and triglycerides, may contribute to fatty deposits in your arteries. This may restrict or block blood flow, leading to heart disease and stroke. Ginsenosides may help lower triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." It may also raise levels of high-density lipoproteins, which are components of cholesterol that may help clear out fatty blockages in your circulatory system.
Liver Protection
Chronic blood-glucose elevations may be toxic to your liver, which is responsible for removing excess glucose and toxins from your body. Over time, high glucose may contribute to scarring of liver tissues, which can reduce your liver's ability to function properly. The ginsenosides in ginseng may protect liver tissues from toxic damage, according to Castleman. This may prevent scarring caused by the high blood-glucose levels associated with diabetes.
Considerations
The Food and Drug Administration considers ginseng "generally safe," according to Castleman. However, as with any herb, taking ginseng may produce side effects. It may cause insomnia and irritability, and may reduce your body's ability to clot blood. The ginsenosides in ginseng may also slightly elevate blood pressure.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
