Korean Ginseng Tea Review: Health Benefits & Side Effects

The history of Korean Ginseng Tea spans more than 2000 years. Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) is from the same genus as American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and the two possess a similar medicinal profile.

Neither American nor Korean ginseng should be confused with Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), which is from a different genus and does not have the same medicinal properties.

Korean and American ginseng are from the same taxonomic family (Araliaceae) and genus (Panax), but are different species. Both contain similar active medical ingredients, which include ginsenosides and gintonin.

People drink Korean Ginseng Tea for a variety of reasons, such as: strengthening the libido, alleviating some symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED), stimulating mental clarity, improving physical/sexual stamina, providing cardio-protective effects and combating cancer. These are only a few examples of a long list of uses.

Although Korean ginseng has received research attention, there is not enough evidence to determine its precise therapeutic function or to support the majority of its uses.

It is estimated that approximately 6 million people regularly use Korean ginseng in the United States alone. Worldwide annual sales top more than $3 billion. The majority of ginseng is harvested in Korea and in the United States. The top consumers of ginseng are the Chinese.

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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Korean Ginseng Tea

In general, ginseng tea is usually consumed as a tonic for overall wellbeing, and to help promote a sense of mental clarity.

Korean ginseng tea is often imbibed for its purported adaptogenic effects.

Adaptogens are natural substances that are thought to help the body cope with mental, physical and environmental stress. Ginseng tea is also taken to help support the immune system during periods of high stress.

Many people also supplement with Korean ginseng tea to help cope with depression, fatigue and anxiety. Supplementation is claimed to induce a stimulating effect, which helps improve concentration and learning.

The stimulating effects of ginseng may also lead to side effects; excessive or prolonged use has been observed to cause jitters, mania and/or sleeplessness.

Korean ginseng tea is used to provide antioxidant effects that help boost the immune system and reduce oxidative damage. Oxidative stress is becoming increasingly correlated with the development of preventable diseases and is thought to speed up the physical effects of aging.

There are many other possible therapeutic advantages associated with Korean ginseng teas and powder supplements. Some of the other current uses of P. ginseng include treating anemia, gastritis, asthma, fevers and hangover symptoms.

Additionally, it is used to treat clotting/bleeding disorders, cystic fibrosis, fibromyalgia, insomnia, dizziness, joint pain, convulsions, vomiting, neuralgia, hot flashes and various effects of premature aging.

Safety and Side Effects

Korean ginseng tea is generally well tolerated. It has been consumed for thousands of years and proper use is generally not associated with severe side effects.

It has been used in scientific studies for up to six months without any noted severe side effects. Mild side effects may include insomnia and anxiety.

In certain sensitive individuals, the following less common side effects may be experienced with excessive or prolonged Korean ginseng tea supplementation:

• High or low blood pressure (this effect seems to be dose dependent);
• Menstrual irregularities;
• Breast pain;
• Itching skin and/or rash;
• Lack of appetite
• Diarrhea;
• Headaches and/or moodiness.

Possible Drug Interactions

Korean ginseng may interact with pharmaceuticals and/or illicit drugs. P. ginseng has been observed to affect blood sugar levels, blood pressure and liver function. If you take any prescription or over-the-counter medications to address these health issues, be sure to speak with your doctor about the safety of drinking Korean ginseng tea.

Pregnancy

There is insufficient evidence to determine if Korean ginseng is safe for pregnant or nursing women. In one study, P. ginseng caused birth defects in animal subjects. Avoid use when pregnant or nursing without the express permission of your obstetrician or pediatrician.

Conclusions

Korean ginseng tea may help improve overall health in a number of ways. Currently, there is insufficient scientific evidence to warrant any definitive therapeutic claims. Research continues to better understand the medicinal effects of Korean ginseng.

P. ginseng contains active constituents that are known to affect a number of the body’s systems. They may alter the metabolism of some pharmaceutical agents and may cause negative interactions.

Also, medicinal botanicals like ginseng are known to interact with other herbs. Follow recommended dosages and use caution when supplementing at home with Korean ginseng tea. In all cases, be sure to speak with a doctor before starting to use ginseng supplements.

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