American Ginseng Side Effects, Safety Warnings & Interactions

American ginseng side effects are relatively mild and generally transient. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) has been used for hundreds of years to treat a number of conditions, ranging from the common cold and fatigue to diabetes and cancer.

The list of historic and contemporary uses of ginseng is long and there is variable evidence available to reinforce the diversity of uses.

Nevertheless, researchers have observed that ginseng exhibits antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, immunomodulating properties, in addition to several others, that may be beneficial to human health.

American ginseng side effects are not common in individuals who are not using prescription medications, and who are not afflicted with adverse health conditions. Research studies involving ginseng supplementation have lasted for up to sixty days without severe side effects.

American Ginseng

Herbal Supplement

Immunity

Energy

Mental Focus

How It Works:

• Contains ginsenosides that act as adaptogens
• Supports the immune system
• Boosts energy & cognitive performance

Dosage:

Between 100 - 1000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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American Ginseng Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effect of American ginseng is insomnia.

Ginseng may cause a stimulating effect, which may lead to jitteriness, anxiety and accelerated heart rate.

Other sleep disturbances have also been reported and may indicate a need to reduce the dose or discontinue use.

Less likely side effects include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), altered blood pressure, breast pain, dizziness, headaches, rashes, itching, vaginal bleeding and/or menstrual complications. Severe rashes or life-threatening damage to the liver may occur if ginseng is used for a prolonged period of time or if the dose is too high.

American Ginseng Drug Interactions

American ginseng may interact with a number of supplements as well as prescription and over-the-counter medications. Panax quinquefolius is a bioactive natural herb that appears to have a wide-range of effects in the body. Ginseng may alter the liver’s metabolism of some pharmaceuticals.

Consequently, the strength of the pharmaceutical’s effects, the accuracy of its therapeutic targeting and its possible side effects are all subject to unpredictable irregularities when taken with ginseng.

American ginseng may interact with a diverse array of medications. For instance, side effects are possible with medications used to treat autoimmune diseases, cancer, heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, hypertension, depression, neurodegenerative disorders and others.

This is not an exhaustive list. Speak with your doctor before taking P. quinquefolius to be sure you are not at risk of adverse drug interactions.

Is American Ginseng Safe for You?

Certain groups are not recommended for ginseng supplementation due to a higher risk of potential side effects.

Pregnant and nursing women should not use ginseng supplements without the express approval of their doctors. In one Korean study, Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) was observed to cause birth defects in animal subjects.

Asian ginseng is related to American ginseng and the two species share many similar constituents. It is unclear if the phytonutrients in ginseng – which include a group of compounds called ginsenosides – enter the breast milk. The biological effects of ginseng on fetal development and infant health are unknown. Therefore, supplementation is not recommended for pregnant and nursing women.

Children and adolescents are not recommended for ginseng supplementation. Possible American ginseng side effects in children include hyperactivity and decreases in concentration. Additionally, mood swings, nervousness and chronic drowsiness are also possible.

Ginseng supplementation may not be appropriate if you have been diagnosed with or are being treated for any of the following conditions:

• Low or high blood pressure;
• Abnormal heart rhythm or other heart issues;
• Troubles with bleeding or clotting;
• Schizophrenia and some other mental health conditions;
• Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune conditions;
• Estrogen-dependent conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids and certain cancers;
• Type II diabetes mellitus;
• Liver disease.

It is important to speak with your doctor before taking American ginseng to make sure the supplement is right for you.

Important American Ginseng Warnings

The effects of Panax quinquefolius may be intensified when taken with caffeine. Avoid large amounts of coffee or other caffeinated beverages when using ginseng supplements. Also, be mindful of chocolate consumption and other foodstuffs that are known to contain caffeine.

Do not use ginseng with aspirin because it may increase the risk of developing bleeding or clotting disorders. Also, do not use ginseng in conjunction with ginger, garlic or other herbaceous plants that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet and/or anticoagulant properties.

P. quinquefolius should not be taken with:

• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen;
• MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors);
• Immunosuppressant drugs, such as prednisone;
• Medications used to accommodate organ transplants, such as cyclosporine;
• Diuretics, such as furosemide;
• Fenugreek and willow bark.

Serious adverse reactions are possible if ginseng is taken with these compounds. Again, this list is not exhaustive. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking ginseng to help ensure safe use.

Conclusions about American Ginseng Side Effects

Panax quinquefolius may be safe when used in accordance with recommended doses and time limits. Clinical studies have used a range of doses with no serious or lasting side effects reported. Ginseng supplementation may be a versatile preventive and curative agent. Clinical research continues to determine ginseng’s full range of health benefits along with any possible American ginseng side effects.

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