The real effects of ginseng on health

Ginseng is not a new herb to Vietnamese people, however not everyone clearly understands the effects of ginseng .

Benefits of ginseng

There are many different types of ginseng such as Asian ginseng (Panax Ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax qu vayefolius) or fresh ginseng, red ginseng, white ginseng , etc., but in general, the main ingredient that helps ginseng have many health benefits is thanks to ginsenosides .

1. Health benefits of ginseng

Different types of ginseng with different processing and production methods will have different quality as well as potential health properties. When buying ginseng products, you need to check the ratio as well as other ingredients. Ginseng in the form of supplements needs a doctor's prescription before use.

1.1. Rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation

According to Healthline , several test-tube studies have shown that ginseng extract and its ginsenoside compounds can inhibit inflammation and reduce oxidative damage to cells, which contribute to chronic diseases. The results of these studies are promising for further human studies.

Ginseng has many health benefits. (Photo: Internet).

1.2. Beneficial for brain function

A study of 6,422 elderly people published in NCBI found that regular consumption for at least 5 years was associated with improved cognitive function over time. The reason is explained by the ginsenoside and K compounds that protect the brain against damage caused by free radicals, so it can be seen that ginseng helps improve brain function including memory, behavior and mood.

Another review on NCBI also found that ginseng can help relieve stress and has benefits for depression and anxiety.

1.3. Improve erectile dysfunction

A 2021 study on NCBI on alternative herbal medicines in the treatment of erectile dysfunction found that ginseng may be a useful solution in treating this disorder.

Compounds in ginseng help protect against oxidative stress in the blood vessels and tissues of the penis to help restore normal function. In addition, ginseng also promotes the production of nitric oxide - a compound that improves relaxation in the penile muscles and increases blood flow to the organ.

However, studies on the effects of ginseng in treating erectile dysfunction are still controversial and the results are inconsistent. Therefore, we still need more in-depth studies before concluding.

Compounds in ginseng help protect against oxidative stress in blood vessels. (Photo: Internet).

1.4. Can boost the immune system

According to Healthline , ginseng has strong antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties that can enhance the function of the immune system or the body's resistance.

One animal study found that red/black ginseng extract may help increase the number of immune cells and increase antioxidant levels in the liver. Similarly, a 2021 NCBI study of the effects of red ginseng in adults involving 100 volunteers found that taking 2 grams of red ginseng daily for 8 weeks can significantly increase the number of immune cells compared to a placebo.

However, to draw an accurate conclusion about the dosage needed to have an effect on the immune system, we still need more advanced studies.

1.5. Potential benefits in fighting cancer

According to Healthline , ginseng may be effective in reducing the risk of certain cancers by about 16% thanks to the effects of ginsenosides in reducing inflammation and fighting free radical oxidation - thereby preventing the production and development of abnormal cells.

Additionally, ginseng may also help improve the health of people undergoing chemotherapy as well as reduce the side effects of cancer treatment. But these are only the potential effects of ginseng on cancer, and researchers say more evidence is needed to be convincing.

Ginseng may be effective in reducing the risk of certain cancers by about 16%. (Photo: Internet).

1.6. Reduce fatigue and increase energy

You may have heard many people say that eating ginseng helps reduce fatigue and indeed ginseng has been proven to help reduce fatigue and increase energy; especially significantly improving symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome when compared to placebo after just 15 days.

The components in ginseng considered for this anti-fatigue and energy-boosting effect include polysaccharides and oligopeptides.

1.7. Reduce blood sugar

According to Healthline , ginseng appears to have a positive effect on blood sugar control in people with diabetes and healthy people by improving pancreatic cell function, increasing insulin production, and enhancing the absorption of blood sugar in tissues.

Furthermore, research shows that ginseng extract helps provide antioxidant protection that effectively reduces the formation of free radicals in cells in people with diabetes.

Although initial research is promising, more research is needed to demonstrate how ginseng helps blood sugar and what dosage is needed.

1.8. Reduce cholesterol

According to Health , a 2016 review and meta-analysis found that ginseng helped reduce triglycerides (fats in the blood), total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, taking ginseng did not affect high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) levels.

2. How to use ginseng effectively?

To date, there is no standard recommendation for the daily dose of ginseng. This dose will depend on the type of ginseng and the amount of ginsenosides it contains. According to Medicine Plus , adults can safely take 100-3000 mg of American ginseng or 200 mg-3 g of Asian ginseng per day.

Ginseng is considered safe for the average healthy adult when used for short periods of time. (Photo: Internet).

Ginseng is considered safe for the average healthy adult when used for short periods of time, but it is not safe for everyone. The maximum duration of use for American ginseng is 12 weeks and for Asian ginseng it is 6 months. The long-term effects of ginseng are not well understood, but the most common side effects are headaches when taken in large doses or sleep problems.

Ginseng supplements come in tablet, capsule, extract, or powder form. Tablets or capsules typically contain the root or extract of one or more ginseng roots. Powdered ginseng root extract can be dissolved in water, juice, or smoothies. With fresh ginseng, you can peel and chew the raw root or soak it in ginseng wine, boil the peeled raw root to make ginseng tea, stew or cook chicken soup, or make other healthy dishes, etc.

3. Possible risks

If you have any of the following health conditions, talk to your doctor before using ginseng in any form, specifically:

• Pregnant women
• Suffering from insomnia
• Coagulation disorders
• Have estrogen-sensitive health conditions such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis
• Schizophrenia
• Preparing for surgery (avoid use for at least 2 weeks before undergoing any surgery)
• High blood pressure due to excessive use of ginseng can cause hypertension
• Autoimmune disorders.

In addition, both American ginseng and Asian ginseng can cause drug interactions , so avoid drinking/eating ginseng while taking the following medications: blood thinners, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) used to treat depression, stimulants including caffeine, diabetes medications, immunosuppressants, etc.

Ginseng can be used in many medicines, dishes or soaked in wine. (Photo: Internet).

Common side effects of taking ginseng may include headache, nausea, diarrhea, changes in blood pressure, increased heart rate, loss of appetite, breast pain, and menstrual problems.

4. Frequently asked questions when eating/drinking ginseng

Does eating ginseng make you fat?

In essence, although ginseng is very nutritious, it contains very little fat. Therefore, the answer to the question of whether eating ginseng makes you fat or whether eating ginseng makes you gain weight is no.

Can I eat ginseng if I have a stomachache?

According to Oriental medicine, ginseng has a sweet, slightly bitter taste, warm properties, and has the effect of greatly replenishing vital energy, benefiting blood, generating body fluids, improving intelligence, brightening eyes, eliminating evil spirits, slowing aging, and increasing longevity. Meanwhile, stomachache and diarrhea are caused by a cold body. Therefore, people with stomachaches should not use ginseng because it can be life-threatening.

Is drinking ginseng hot?

The answer is no . Ginseng also has the effect of regulating body temperature (temperate), supporting blood circulation, thereby helping the temperature under the skin not be affected much by the temperature of the outside environment.

In general, ginseng has many health benefits, but ginseng is not a "herbal medicine that can replace medicine" or a regimen prescribed by a doctor. People should not overestimate the effects of ginseng when using it. Using ginseng in any form should be consulted with a doctor before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.