A heated, dried form of Asian ginseng root, red ginseng has been used for thousands of years as a component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Red ginseng preparations contain higher concentrations of ginsenosides -- active medicinal compounds -- than non-heated forms of ginseng. Because of this, red ginseng is more popular than raw or white ginseng and has been the subject of most ginseng-related clinical research.
Like several other popular herbs, ginseng is believed to work as an adaptogen. In theory, it enables the body adapt to physical or emotional stress with fewer fluctuations in sleep, appetite or mood. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) notes that more studies are needed to validate many of the health claims associated with this popular herbal supplement. However, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), scientific evidence supports several of its uses.
Heart Disease
According to the NIH, red panax ginseng's antioxidant effects can support the health of people with cardiovascular disease. Ginseng root protects cardiovascular tissue and LDL ("bad") cholesterol against oxidation, or damage from reactive oxygen molecules. Because oxidation-related cell damage is a major risk factor for several cardiovascular diseases, ginseng has been proposed as a preventative supplement for people with high LDL cholesterol levels or other heart disease risk factors.
High Blood Sugar and Diabetes
The NIH notes that ginseng preparations can reduce blood sugar levels. Unlike many other glucose-lowering supplements, it does not appear to reduce blood glucose to dangerously low levels. The NIH also states that "good scientific evidence" supports the use of ginseng as a complementary treatment for type 2 diabetes; however, it has not been extensively evaluated as a treatment for type 1 diabetes.
Immune Support
NCCAM states that ginseng is commonly used to support the health of people recovering from illness. Citing several well-designed studies, the NIH notes that ginseng can enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics in people with bronchitis and improve the body's response to flu vaccines.
Cancer Prevention and Treatment
NIH notes that ginseng is sometimes used to prevent certain forms of cancer; however, studies in this area have been poorly designed and controversial. Early evidence also suggests that ginseng can reduce many of the side effects associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Sexual Health
Like other adaptogens, ginseng is commonly used to treat sexual problems in both men and women. Ginseng may help to improve genital blood flow in both men and women. It can also prevent premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Red ginseng may also improve the quantity and motility of sperm; however, the NIH notes that more studies are needed to prove this effect.
Pregnancy Health
Ginseng may help to improve the health of pregnant women and fetuses. The NIH notes that, according to early evidence, red ginseng may help to improve growth in fetuses who are not growing normally. In theory, red panax ginseng may also improve birth outcomes in babies with birth defects like anoxemic encephalopathy. The NIH notes that, while preliminary studies are encouraging, there is insufficient evidence to support red ginseng's overall safety during pregnancy. Because of theoretical risks associated with ginseng, women should consult a licensed practitioner before taking it during pregnancy.
Menopause
According to NCCAM, ginseng does not appear to reduce hot flashes or night sweats in menopausal women. However, ginseng may reduce anxiety, mood swings and sexual problems in menopausal women. According to the NIH, studies also suggest that ginseng can improve mood and cognition in post-menopausal women.
Quality of Life
According to the NIH, ginseng preparations may help to improve well-being and quality of life. While several studies have appeared to confirm this effect, the NIH notes that more studies are needed in this area.
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