Ginseng: A Natural Memory-Boosting Herb

Ginseng is a memory-boosting herb that is found in North America, Korea, and China. While there are several different herbs that fall under the description Ginseng, this name most commonly refers to Panax or Asian Ginseng.

This natural nootropic has been proven to improve mental performance, enhance mood, protect against elderly memory loss, reduce anxiety and boost brain health.

It is also known as an adaptogen as well as a powerful natural aphrodisiac and tonic which has been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices.

Multiple studies have demonstrated that this supplement can have a number of powerful effects on bodily functions like energy, immunity, and even sexual functioning.

Ginseng supplements may be added to your nootropic stack for neuroprotective benefits or used in conjunction with Ginkgo Biloba and Vinpocetine for a stronger cognitive enhancement effect.

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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Ginseng Effects:

There are a number of active ingredients found in herbal Ginseng extract supplements.

Also called ginsenosides, these chemical compounds are responsible for the numerous effects and benefits reportedly associated with Panax Ginseng.

The actual mechanisms of action, however, are quite complex. Since this supplement is considered an adaptogen, the ingredients work to normalize multiple bodily functions.

The actual process is similar to a chain of command, with numerous glands controlling secretions that are intended to regulate the health and function of the entire body (one system at a time).

Ginseng helps these glands to function properly and keep everything in balance as part of the body’s pursuit of homeostasis. This often means one of those 20+ ginsenosides may act as a stimulant to one gland or function and a depressant to another gland or function.

The Rb1 group of Ginenosides also contain certain steroid molecules that can increase energy, alertness and endurance. Comparatively, the Rg1 group of Ginenosides is responsible for boosting various maintenance processes in your neurons and protecting against aging-related cognitive decline.

An article published in the Journal of Psychopharmacy in 2005 found that using Ginseng supplements can improve mental performance in tasks that required long periods of high level cognitive function. Studies have also found that Asian Ginseng is particularly potent when stacked with the Ginkgo Biloba herb, promoting memory improvements in otherwise healthy individuals.

Ginseng Benefits:

The primary benefit of Ginseng is as a whole-body health booster. It works to normalize many bodily function which appears to be out of kilter. It is also responsible for helping to repair and boost the immune system.

As an adaptogens, this supplement can enable the body to adapt to and limit damage from changes or stressors in the environment.

Ginseng is also thought to work as a powerful anti-oxidant. Free radicals are byproducts of natural processes, but if they become too many in number they may damage cells.

Ginseng actually helps the body to rid itself from these damaging free radicals, along with other toxins and poisons. This also reduces inflammation in your cells, which is thought to be a root cause of many issues.

Another well-known and sought after benefit of Ginseng is cognitive enhancement. It has been known to increase both working and spatial memory and to protect against memory deficits. Using Panax Ginseng can lead to improvements in concentration, focus, and thinking in general. Studies also indicate the supplement may help to induce feelings of calmness and relaxation in healthy adults.

Ginseng has also been reported to aid in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. American Ginseng has been found in various studies to improve blood sugar control.

This is achieved through the creation of sugar-lowering effects in those who are fasting as well as after meal blood sugar levels. This effects has been observed even in average blood sugar levels over a three-month period.

Furthermore, Ginseng pills or powders may be beneficial for weight control. Ginseng tea works as a natural appetite suppressant and the extract from the berry itself is thought to be effective against obesity.

As an overall tonic and health stimulant Ginseng may have few equals. It has been shown to boost stamina and increase energy levels. Athletes can use oxygen more effectively and it helps to regulate metabolism (this alone is also likely to raise energy levels). Supplementation has also been shown to help reduce stress and lower recovery time.

Ginseng Dosage:

The benefits of Ginseng may not be noticeable at first as a load period is often reported in studies of long-term use.

For most users this will be nothing to worry about since it will likely only take a few days. On the other hand, some users may need to wait from 2 weeks to 2 months before seeing results.

For this initial load period, take between 500 and 1,500 mg daily. In fact, the load period may require doubling this dosage level for the first week to ten days.

After this initial load phase, users will want to experiment in order to find their ideal dosage level. Too much Ginseng at this point will simply pass through the body unused. However, it may take some trial and error in to discover this level for yourself.

Ginseng Side Effects:

Despite Ginseng being an all-natural supplement which is generally very well-tolerated and safe, there are some side effects associated with it. Most of these are more likely to occur only in cases of overuse, overdose, or allergies.

For example, headaches, insomnia, gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, vomiting), high blood pressure, and skin rashes or irregularities have been reported. If any of these occur, lower your dose or stop taking the supplement altogether for a while.

Ginseng Review:

Asian Ginseng is another foundational nootropic supplement to consider adding to your routine. As an adaptogen, Ginseng can promote healthy bodily function from head to toe. It also possesses the capacity to enhance cognitive function in the short-term and in the long-term by reducing the risk of memory loss.

If you are interested in building an all-herbal nootropic stack, then Ginseng is one of the must-have compounds for improved energy and learning. You should also look at combining it with Ginkgo Biloba for the synergistic benefits reported in the research literature.

Even if you are using a more powerful cachet of memory-boosting nootropic supplements, Ginseng does offer some additional benefits that may be worth your while.

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