Ginseng can refer to Asian or Korean ginseng or American ginseng. The two plants are similar, but have slightly different properties The designation of "red" ginseng generally refers to Korean ginseng and is an indication of the type of processing the herb goes through before it reaches the consumer. This, too, provides the herb with slightly different properties. Many studies have looked into the properties of these various permutations of ginseng, and it does seem to have some benefits. However, always ask your doctor before starting this or any other herbal supplement.
Red Ginseng
The difference between red ginseng and white ginseng is how it is processed. Red ginseng is the Asian version of ginseng, but it is steamed and then heat-dried, according to New York University Langone Medical Center. White ginseng is just left to dry. Practitioners of herbal medicine believe that this processing confers different properties on each type of herb. Red ginseng studies have focused on diabetes, erectile dysfunction and sexual arousal in menopausal women. A study published in the "Journal of Urology" in 2002 showed that 900 mg of Korean Red ginseng three times per day produced better sexual function in men than a placebo. Studies have investigated red ginseng and HIV and high blood pressure.
Asian Ginseng
Asian ginseng is the more popular version of the herb, and it is the one most studied. Ginseng is considered an "adaptogen," which means it is used to help your body deal with stress. Two focused studies have investigated these claims for Asian ginseng and found that people rated the quality of their lives better when taking it, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Preliminary results into cardiovascular disease show that it improves cholesterol profiles, but mixed results are reported when it's used to lower blood pressure. Study results looking into memory and physical endurance are similarly mixed.
American Ginseng
American ginseng is not studied as often as its Asian cousin. It contains the same "adaptogen" qualities of Asian ginseng, but its properties are slightly different. Some research exists to show that it has anti-inflammatory properties. However, most studies have focused on American ginseng and diabetes. It shows promise in lowering blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, but more research is needed to make a recommendation. Other areas of study include cancer treatment, common cold, immune system function and attention deficit disorder.
Safety
Ginseng has some side effects that necessitate caution when using this herb, either the American or Asian varieties. It can affect your blood pressure, so use care if you are taking a blood pressure medication. Ginseng can also affect blood sugar, requiring you to watch for unexpected blood sugar drops if you are a diabetic taking this herb. It can cause insomnia, restlessness, euphoria, diarrhea, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, headache and breast pain. Ginseng can increase your bleeding time, so do not take it with a blood thinner or within seven days of surgery. Also, use it only under the supervision of a doctor if you are bipolar, as it can cause a manic episode. If you have a history of breast cancer, do not use ginseng.
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