Ginseng Supplement User Guide, Benefits & Daily Dosage

Organic ginseng supplements are used widely for various health-enhancing purposes. The ginseng herb is well known for traditional uses like strengthening immunity, boosting energy and improving cognitive functioning.

Ginseng supplements are considered to be adaptogens. Although they are not recognized in western medicine, adaptogens are said to help the body to cope with physical and mental stress.

Ginseng can be used as a supplement in several different forms: oral capsules, liquid tinctures, extract powders, teas or topical creams. The capsules and tablets are the most popular form of Ginseng products sold today.

This herbal extract may be used on its own or it may be combined with other natural ingredients, such as Ginkgo Biloba, Ginger, Royal Jelly, Vinpocetine and more. You can buy ginseng supplements online or from a number of different local health product retailers.

Panax Ginseng

Adaptogen

Energy

Immune Function

Well- Being

How It Works:

• Boosts energy & mental focus
• Supports immune system & restores balance
• Improves mood, sleep quality & endurance

Dosage:

Between 100 - 400 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Types of Ginseng Supplements

There are three primary varieties of ginseng: Asian ginseng, American ginseng and Siberian ginseng. Of these, only Asian and American ginseng supplements contain bioactive molecules called ginsenosides.

Siberian ginseng is not from the same plant genus as Asian and American ginseng. Its botanical name is Eleutherococcus senticosus. It does not contain ginsenosides. It does contain similar molecules called eleutherosides.

Ginsenosides are a class of steroid glycosides and triterpene saponins. These compounds induce a wide array of biological effects.

Asian and American ginseng supplements contain differing concentrations of eight major ginsenosides. Because of their different molecular makeups, they are used for different therapeutic purposes, though many of their effects are similar.

For example, Asian ginseng supplements contain more Rg1 ginsenosides than do American ginseng products. Rg1 is associated with stimulating the CNS (central nervous system), combating fatigue and sharpening mental performance.

Comparatively, American ginseng is used to calm the CNS and help normalize mood. It is also said to improve the immune system and is sometimes taken to combat colds or flu symptoms.

Asian Ginseng Supplements

Asian ginseng is also known by the botanical name, Panax ginseng. It is the most studied species of the Panax genus. Other common names for Asian ginseng include Chinese ginseng, “True” ginseng and Korean ginseng.

According to the Natural Medicines database, Asian ginseng supplements and root extracts are used for the following:

• Improving well-being, stamina, immune function and resistance to stress;
• Enhancing memory, concentration and cognitive functioning;
• Treating neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease;
• Easing depression and alleviating anxiety;
• Decreasing physical and mental fatigue;
• Preventing skin, liver, lung, breast and ovarian cancer;

Common Medical Uses

Additional reported uses for Asian ginseng supplements include COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), ED (erectile dysfunction), HIV/AIDS, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic bronchitis, asthma, dysentery, colitis, influenza, common cold, loss of appetite, wrinkled skin, convulsions and more.

Asian ginseng supplements show promise as cardioprotective agents. P. ginseng induces antihypertensive effects which may support cardiovascular function and heart health. This herb can also help to improve lipid levels by reducing LDL cholesterol and may protect against heart disease.

Asian ginseng supplements are also being researched for their anti-cancer effects. Preliminary research shows that compounds found in this herb may inhibit cancer cell proliferation (rapid replication), induce natural cell death (apoptosis), mitigate damage to DNA and support immunomodulatory effects.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Asian ginseng has been used for thousands of years for a variety of therapeutic purposes.

Although Asian ginseng is the most researched variety of ginseng, few large-scale human trials have been completed. Clinical evidence is insufficient to validate the majority of traditional uses.

American Ginseng Supplements

American ginseng supplements and roots are taken from Panax quinquefolius plants. As mentioned, they contain different concentrations of the eight primary ginsenosides compared to Asian ginseng.

American ginseng was first exported to China in the 1700s. In Chinese medicine, Asian ginseng is a “hot” tonic, and American ginseng is a “cool” tonic. Hot tonics stimulate the body while cool tonics calm.

The small amount of reliable human research that has been conducted on P. quinquefolius does show therapeutic potential. American ginseng supplements may be helpful at boosting the function of the immune system. This herv may also serve as a general antioxidant and may improve inflammatory conditions and diseases.

American ginseng supplements are widely believed to normalize certain bodily functions. They are used to relieve conditions which result from chronic psychological stress. Non-specific benefits are associated with the synthesis and utilization of certain regulatory hormones.

Ginseng Supplement Side Effects

Asian ginseng supplements are generally well tolerated, but there have been some adverse effects reported in a small number of cases. The most commonly reported side effect is insomnia or difficulty falling asleep at night.

Other rare side effects associated with use include high blood pressure (hypertension), low blood pressure (hypotension), vaginal bleeding, breast pains, diarrhea, decreased appetite, headaches, and mood disruptions.

Asian ginseng supplements are not recommended for infants or children. If you are considering taking a ginseng supplement, then consult with your doctor first. Tell her about your health history and medicine usage.

Appropriate oral administration of American ginseng supplements is well tolerated for most. Headaches have been reported in some users.

Panax quinquefolius has been used safely in children between 3 and 17 years of age. It is rated as possibly unsafe for pregnant and nursing women. Certain teratogenic effects have been noted in animal research.

Conclusions

Although Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius have well-established uses in traditional medicine, there has been little clinical research conducted on these herbs. Both contain bioactive ginsenosides, but in different quantities.

Generally, Ginseng supplements are believed to increase energy and support feelings of well-being. Speak to your doctor before taking Asian Ginseng or American Ginseng to treat any medical conditions.

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