Panax ginseng, also known as Asian ginseng or Korean ginseng is a species of plant whose root is the source of ginseng. It is a slow-growing, short, perennial plant with fleshy roots.
It grows in the mountains of East Asia. It is among the longest-living plants. Panax ginseng is one of the most commonly greatly used species of ginseng.
The roots are harvested into the ginseng that is consumed often in teas and supplements. The roots of ginseng can be classified in three ways, depending on how long it is grown: Fresh, white or red.
Fresh ginseng is harvested before 4 years, while white ginseng is harvested between 4-6 years and red ginseng is harvested after 6 or more years.
Panax ginseng has been used for thousands of years by Koreans in their traditional medicine, where it was mainly used as a remedy for spiritlessness and fatigue. It has an invigorating effect.
The name Panax means “all healing” and this stemmed from the traditional confidence that ginseng can cure all illnesses of the human body.
Description of the Panax Ginseng Plant
The herb has a light-coloured, forked-shaped root, a relatively long stalk, and green leaves in an oval shape.
Bioactive Components of Panax Ginseng
The main active components in Panax ginseng are ginsenosides, which are triterpene saponins. The second component is gintonin. These two compounds complement one another to provide health benefits. Others are Carbohydrates, nitrogen-containing compounds, fat-soluble substances and minerals.
Traditional Uses of Panax Ginseng
Traditionally, Panax ginseng is used as a tonic. In Chinese medicine, it is well known for its healing properties and popularly used to enhance physical endurance, and stamina, and to cope better with muscular fatigue.
This plant is popularly used as an adaptogen (herbals that help people adapt to stress) throughout the world.
Health Benefits of Panax Ginseng
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Potent Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent
Panax ginseng has beneficial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that Panax ginseng extracts and ginsenoside compounds could inhibit inflammation and increase antioxidant capacity in cells though more studies are needed before one can conclude.
Researchers concluded after a study that red ginseng might help reduce oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities.
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It May Benefit The Brain’s Functions
Panax ginseng could help improve brain functions like memory, behaviour and mood. This may be due to the possibility of ginseng assisting the uptake of blood sugar by cells, thereby enhancing performance and reducing mental fatigue.
Studies show that lower doses taken over a short period are more effective compared to higher doses concerning this function. There was another study that concluded that taking 400mg of Panax ginseng daily for eight days improved calmness and mathematics skills.
It was also discovered that Panax ginseng has positive effects on brain function and behaviour in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
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It Could Improve Erectile Dysfunction
It has been shown through research that Panax ginseng may be a useful alternative to Viagra in the treatment of erectile dysfunction but when combined with Ginkgo biloba, it becomes more effective.
There are two possible ways that Panax ginseng could help improve erectile dysfunction:
- The bioactive compound in Panax ginseng may help to protect against oxidative stress in blood vessels and tissues in the penis and help restore normal function.
- The bioactive compound in Panax ginseng may promote the production of nitric oxide, a compound that improves muscle relaxation in the penis and increases blood circulation.
More studies are needed to draw definite conclusions about the effects of ginseng on ED (Erectile dysfunction).
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It May Boost the Immune System
Ginseng may strengthen the immune system in people with cancer and even enhance the effects of certain vaccinations.
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It May Have Potential Benefits Against Cancer
Panax ginseng may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. The ginsenosides contained in Panax ginseng have been shown to help reduce inflammation and provide antioxidant protection.
Ginsenosides could benefit the cell cycle (this is the process by which cells normally grow and divide) by preventing abnormal cell production and growth.
It was also seen through several studies that people who take ginseng may have a 16% lower risk of developing cancer.
Ginseng may also help improve the health of patients undergoing chemotherapy, reduce side effects and enhance the effect of some treatment drugs.
It was observed that people taking ginseng could be less likely to develop certain types of cancer, such as lip, mouth, oesophagus, stomach, colon, liver and lung cancer, than those who do not take it.
Most studies on the role of ginseng in cancer prevention are inconclusive though they show some benefits hence the need for more research.
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It May Fight Fatigue and Increase Energy Levels
Panax ginseng has been shown to help fight fatigue and promote energy. The polysaccharides and oligopeptides contents of ginseng have been linked with lower oxidative stress and higher energy production in cells, which could help fight fatigue.
It was also discovered to equally enhance physical activity, reduced physical and mental fatigue and reduced oxidative stress.
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It Could Help Lower Blood Pressure
Ginseng seems to be beneficial in the control and maintenance of blood glucose in both diabetics and non-diabetics.
Panax ginseng has been shown to improve pancreatic cell function, boost insulin production and enhance the uptake of blood sugar in tissues.
It has equally been seen that ginseng extracts help by providing antioxidant protection that reduces free radicals in the cells of those with diabetes.
The fermented red ginseng could be even more effective at blood sugar control because the live bacteria transform the ginsenosides into a more easily absorbed and potent form.
How to Consume Panax Ginseng
- The ginseng root can be eaten raw or steamed to soften it.
- It can be sliced and then hot water is added and allowed to steep for several minutes to make tea.
- Ginseng can be added to soups, stews and stir-fries.
- The ginseng extract can be found in powder, tablet, capsule and oil forms.
Suggested Dosage / Quantity to Consume
What we are about to look at now is a suggestion on the quantity of Panax ginseng you can consume this depends on the condition you want to improve but it is still advised and very necessary for you to consult your doctor before using any of the ginseng products.
- For the raw ginseng root, an overall, daily dose of 1-2 grams is suggested.
- For the extract in tablet or capsule form, 200-400 mg is suggested.
It is advisable and best to start with lower doses and increase others over time. Always consume before meals for maximum absorption.
Caution When Using Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng is generally safe to consume and does not produce any serious adverse effects especially when consumed within limits and recommendations.
- Diabetic patients on diabetic drugs should exercise caution when taking ginseng as it may lower their blood sugar more than required. They should contact their doctor for proper counsel if they must take it.
- Persons on anticoagulants should also be careful as ginseng may reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulant drugs. Talk to your doctor first if you find yourself in this category.
- Ginseng is not recommended for children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. This is due to the lack of safety studies.
- Ginseng should not be used fan or extended period as this may decrease its effectiveness as could be seen in some studies. It is advisable to take ginseng in 2–3-week cycles with a one or two-week break in between.
Conclusion
Panax ginseng is referred to as the “king of the herbs”! The reasons are obvious, as we have extensively discussed above. It is not just a great and potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, it could regulate blood sugar levels, may prevent certain cancers, strengthen the immune system, enhance brain function, fight fatigue and improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
More research is needed to substantiate and conclude on the above though they have been used for thousands of years by Koreans to take care of virtually “all” their health challenges!
Please note that you must consult your doctor whenever you want to add ginseng to your supplements. Thank you very much!