Emphysema and Ginseng

Emphysema, a condition in which your alveoli, or lung air sacs, are destroyed, affects many people in the United States. The American Lung Association states that about 3.7 million Americans may have emphysema, 94 percent of them over age 45. Emphysema develops slowly over the years. Some herbs, including ginseng, may be helpful in treating emphysema. However, you should always review use of herbs with your family physician first.

Emphysema

Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, or COPD. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis, another type of COPD, are the No. 4 cause of death in the United States, reports the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Possible causes of emphysema include long-term smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, chronic exposure to toxic gases or fumes and inadequate ventilation when using a cooking fire -- a common cause of this health problem in certain developing nations. Coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing are among the most common symptoms.

Ginseng

American ginseng, also known as Panax quinquefolius, is a perennial plant indigenous to eastern North America that possesses a forked root, umbrella-shaped flowers and red berries. American ginseng, endangered in the wild, contains numerous medicinal ingredients, including fumaric acid, saponin, panaxic acid, beta-sitosterol and campesterols. This plant also contains numerous nutrients, such as choline, fiber, folate and vitamins B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5 and C. The roots of the ginseng plant are used for medicinal purposes.

Herb Uses

American ginseng has been used in treating a variety of ailments. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that American ginseng may encourage healthy lung functioning, which may be beneficial for people with emphysema. Balch also notes that this herbal remedy has traditionally been used in treating poor immune function, bronchitis and circulatory problems. However, further scientific evidence using contemporary testing methods is needed to evaluate the efficacy of this herb in treating emphysema.

Warning

Emphysema, if not treated in a timely and appropriate manner, may lead to severe health complications, including irregular heartbeats, pneumothorax or lung collapse, pneumonia, right-sided heart failure and osteoporosis. The use of herbal remedies, including ginseng, does not guarantee a favorable health outcome. Herbs should only be used if you are under the care of a qualified health care professional, and herbs should not be used in place of other, more conventional therapies suggested by your primary care provider. Always ask your doctor about proper dosage, potential side effects and possible drug interactions before using herbs.