Did you know that in the US alone, over a third of adults take herbal medications? With the widespread use of herbal medicines, Panax Ginseng & Ginkgo Biloba has really stood out. That’s because of countless benefits of Ginseng, from improving mood and memory to even helping people with lifestyle diseases like diabetes and cancer.
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However, the several benefits of Ginseng also comes a variety of myths and hearsays. In this article, we help you separate the facts from the fiction about Panax Ginseng.
Defining Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng is generally defined as “true” or “original” ginseng. It is a type of plant species whose root is the original source of ginseng. Grown in the mountains of Eastern Asia, this wonder herb has been noted to boost mental cognition and mood, reduce stress, and consists of many antioxidant properties. No wonder it’s Latin origins translate to “cure-all”. It has truly become one of the most powerful herbal medicines.
There are many kinds of Panax ginseng in the market. It can come in the form of liquid, powders, capsules, or in its dried root to be steeped in tea and usually taken orally.
What Are The Benefits of Ginseng?
Panax ginseng contains active substances in the form of ginsenoside or panaxosides. It is responsible for its curing effects. It’s also considered as one of the most powerful adaptogens because it can help the body cope during stressful situations and put the body back into balance. As an overall well-being medication, it’s able to affect the different parts of the body.
Differentiating Fact From The Fiction: Panax Ginseng
As one of the most researched herbal medicines, there have been many identifiable benefits of Ginseng. It’s almost too good to be true sometimes. But, the key to knowing how effective it could be is by doing a deep dive on the researches and studies. By looking at the scientific evidence on Panax ginseng, we’re going to tell you what’s true and mythical among these claims.
Claim 1: Panax Ginseng Enhances Brain Function – Relieves Brain Fog – FACT
One study has shown that single doses of 200 to 400 mg of Panax ginseng a day can contribute to better brain function. The study showed that Panax ginseng gave an impact on the mental performance of 30 healthy adults based on a 10-minute mental test. The science behind it explained that the ginseng may have had an effect on the uptake of blood sugar in the brain cells, which improved the subjects’ mental ability and reduced their fatigue. An interesting thing noted in this study was that smaller doses (200 mg) showed greater effectivity than the higher doses.
In another study, Panax ginseng was shown to enhance calmness and improve mathematical abilities. To an extent, it has also shown beneficial effects on people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Claim 2: Panax Ginseng Can Improve Athletic Performance and Physical Stamina – MYTH
Most energy drinks with Panax Ginseng don’t have enough to provide its benefits. That’s why many of the claims on these products (like greater stamina and strength) are mostly untrue.
Researches have been done showing an increase in energy levels for fatigue people taking Panax ginseng. However, most studies have shown little to no effect on athletic performance and physical stamina.
But that is not to say that Panax Ginseng doesn’t work for reducing your fatigue – because it does.
Claim 3: Panax Ginseng Reduces Stress and Improves Your Mood & Mental Fatigue – FACT
Panax ginsengs are adaptogens. These have restorative and therapeutic properties that help in achieving balance in your body. That means that you’re able to have resistance to different types of stress, whether it may be physical, emotional, or biological.
As one of the most popular adaptogens in the world, Panax ginseng can effectively inhibit stress affecting your body. It does this by tapping the adrenal glands and feeding it with the nourishment it needs to function right. In return, the body feels more energized and balanced. It also contains phytoestrogen which is a robust chemical that acts a balancer. This is particularly good for women who are overweight, depressed, stressed, and feeling the pain associated with hormonal changes.
Claim 4: Panax Ginseng Can Boost Your Immune System and May Help Prevent Cancer – FACT
As a well-known herbal medicine, there have been so many extensive studies on how Panax ginseng can boost the body’s immunity. Researches are taking a look at its effect on fighting cancer. In one study, patients recovering from stomach cancer surgery were given ginseng for two years. It concluded that there was a significant improvement in their immune system and that it lessens the occurrence of symptoms.
The active ingredient in Panax ginseng, or the ginsenosides, have shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers. The ginsenosides in this herb may help reduce inflammation and provide antioxidant protection. A literature review reported that people who take ginseng may have a 16% lower risk of getting cancer.
Claim 5: Panax Ginseng Improves Blood Sugar Levels for Diabetics – FACT
Panax ginseng may have an effect in controlling the blood glucose levels for diabetics. This has been associated with the improvement of pancreatic cell function so it can produce more insulin and enhance blood sugar utilization in the body.
One study conducted in a 12-week period showed that their blood glucose levels were maintained among its participants who took Panax ginseng. There was also lower fasting insulin and increase levels of insulin sensitivity.
How Safe Is Panax Ginseng?
Research shows that Panax ginseng is generally safe to consume and does not have adverse and serious effects on the body. The following groups need to take precaution:
- Diabetics with low blood sugar levels
- Those taking anticoagulant drugs
- Children
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding women
How Should You Take Panax Ginseng?
As mentioned earlier, Panax ginseng comes in different forms. However, as a dietary supplement, the common dosage is around 200 to 400 grams daily. This is the recommendation for people who want to take it as preventative medicine. In addition, standard ginsengs containing 2-3% ginsenosides should be taken before meals so that you can get the full benefits of Ginseng.
However, in its raw form, you can eat it as it is or lightly steam or soften it. You can also make it into the tea by adding small slices in hot water. Some people even try adding it to their soup and stir-fry!
To Conclude…
Although the countless health claims of Panax ginseng as a supplement has yet to be confirmed, it’s still considered as powerful herb and proves to be beneficial for your overall health. Among its claims backed up by evidence is how it can improve mood, mental performance, immunity, reduce stress, prevent cancer, and help maintain blood sugar levels for diabetics.
Panax ginseng is widely available in the market in many forms, but it is most commonly taken as a dietary supplement. The recommended dosage per day is around 200-400 milligrams. It’s also best to consult your physician when taking in new supplements.
