Radix Ginseng Supplement Benefits, Uses and Safety

Radix ginseng most often refers to the root of Panax ginseng (Asian or Korean ginseng). In botany, the word “radix” means “root”.

Radix Ginseng root has been used for thousands of years as an adaptogen in traditional medicines systems of the Orient.

In eastern medicine, adaptogens are substances that improve the health of the whole organism by promoting homeostasis and improving resistance to external stressors.

There are actually three different types of ginseng that are considered adaptogenic: Asian ginseng, American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and San Qi (Panax notoginseng, Panax pseudoginseng).

It is important not to confuse Radix Notoginseng and Radix Ginseng as these two plants have different active phytochemicals and exhibit different physiological effects.

Note that Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is also considered an adaptogen, but it is not actually related to the ginseng plant. Rather, it is a shrublike tree that grows mainly in eastern Russia.

Notoginseng (pseudoginseng) is also a shrub, like Siberian ginseng, but contains certain plant chemicals like those found in Asian or American ginseng. [1] The phytonutrient profile and possible benefits of Panax notoginseng will be discussed in more detail below.

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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Radix Ginseng Benefits

Asian ginseng root extract has been shown in clinical trials to benefit human health in various ways.

This type of ginseng root is rated as Possibly Effective by the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Databse for improving the following:

• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease);
• Fatigue related to MS (multiple sclerosis);
• ED (erectile dysfunction);
• Sexual arousal (libido);
• Premature ejaculation;
• Alzheimer’s disease;
• Cognitive function;
• Influenza;

While human research studies demonstrate benefits of Ginseng extract for these conditions, the FDA has not approved this herb as a medicine for the treatment or prevention of any disease.

There are various other conditions that Asian ginseng has been studied for, but there is not currently enough evidence to rate its efficacy.

Some of these include memory impairment, cancer, CHF (congestive heart failure), hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, HIV/AIDS, infertility, menopause and wrinkled skin. [2]

You should seek professional advice about the possible benefits of Radix Panax Ginseng as they pertain to you. Ask your doctor about the possible side effects and interactions that are possible.

Radix Notoginseng Benefits

Radix notoginseng is noted in traditional medicine for its ability to stop or reduce both internal and external bleeding.

In Chinese medicine, it is commonly used orally for bloody urine, bloody stool, vomiting blood, coughing blood and nosebleed. It is also applied topically to stop bleeding from injuries. [2]

Panax notoginseng supplements are available in whole root, tea bag, tablet, capsule and powder forms. A quality Radix Notoginseng extract contains certain chemicals that are quite similar in structure to those in Asian ginseng and American ginseng. [1]

According to the Chinese Academy of Sciences, radix notoginseng contains more bioactive constituents than either Asian or American ginseng. It also offers higher amounts of polysaccharides known to stimulate the immune system. [3]

Like Asian and American ginseng, radix notoginseng is partially comprised of chemicals called ginsenosides. Ginsenosides are a class of triterpene saponins and steroid glycosides. [3]

Together, these natural chemicals induce various pharmacological effects related to immune function, the cardiovascular system, endocrine system and the central nervous system. [2] [3]

Clinical research has demonstrated several health benefits associated with radix notoginseng. Some of these include:

• Alleviating severe chest pains (angina); [4]
• Inhibiting atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and slowing down its progression; [5]
• Increasing blood delivery to the heart and brain while decreasing blood pressure; [6]
• Decreasing elevated blood cholesterol and triglycerides; [7]

Other research associates radix notoginseng with strengthening the immune system, protecting the liver and possibly reversing symptoms of dementia by repairing injured brain cells. [8]

Notoginseng Flower

Panax notoginseng flower also contain concentrated amounts of ginsenoside compounds and is commonly used to brew a bitter/sweet/spicy tea.

Chinese healers believe that routine consumption of this type of tea regulates blood pressure, balances the adrenals, cleanses the liver and gallbladder, and improves blood delivery throughout the body. [9]

There may also be benefits for liver function. According to Japanese researchers, “The principal dammarane-type triterpene saponins from the flower buds of Panax notoginseng were found to show potent hepatoprotective effects.”. [10]

Radix Notoginseng Side Effects

Like other plants that are considered to be adaptogens in eastern medicine, radix notoginseng is purported to be safe for use in most healthy people.

The only side effects associated are mild and temporary in most cases; and include dry mouth, nervousness, insomnia, flushed skin and vomiting. [2]

Be careful using any type of ginseng with pre-existing health conditions, especially hormone sensitive cancers like prostate, breast, uterine and endometrial cancer. [2]

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, there are no interactions reported between Panax notoginseng and prescription drugs, herbal supplements, foods or laboratory tests.

However, it is still best to let your doctor know if you take medications and/or supplements and are considering using radix notoginseng. [2]

Radix notoginseng has been safely used in China and Japan for millennia. In various cultures, it is considered to be “more valuable than gold”. However, you should still consult with a health professional before beginning to use any type of radix notoginseng extract supplement.

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