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The properties of ginseng: benefits and harms

The properties of ginseng: benefits and harms

“May the wisdom of this root abide in your every day”.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Useful properties of ginseng

Ginseng is widely used in traditional Korean and Chinese medicine. The use of ginseng root is described in numerous ancient treatises. In Asian countries, it has been used successfully for several thousand years for the treatment of many diseases.

Many ancient Chinese texts state that Korean ginseng has seven effects on the human body:

1. It increases stamina and endurance, improves physical fitness and relieves fatigue.

2. Improves metabolism, cardiovascular system functions, improves the course of all processes in the body.

3. Stabilises the mental state, prevents stress, neurosis and nervous disorders.

4. Cleanses the body of toxins (detoxification), removes poisons and toxins from the body.

5. Prevents diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

6. Normalises the functions of the respiratory organs and prevents respiratory diseases.

7. It has a rejuvenating effect and improves skin and health in general.

What are the benefits of ginseng?

Scientific research on ginseng.

Many scientists around the world have wondered why ginseng is beneficial and what exactly is its potency. It has been found that the indications for ginseng use described in ancient medical treatises coincide with the recommendations of modern medicine based on scientific evidence.

“Root of Life”, like most traditional medicines, entered medical practice much earlier than it had been researched by scientists.

The unique properties of ginseng have been scientifically confirmed and substantiated. There have been some 5,000 scientific publications on ginseng research, clinical and preclinical trials to date. This number continues to grow each year.

The therapeutic properties of ginseng as proven by science:

Stimulating effect:	Ginseng increases physical and mental activity. It has been proven to be a safe, effective, natural stimulant, which is on a par with caffeine and amphetamines. However, its action is mild, so it does not cause over-stimulation.
Immunostimulant:	Thanks to ginseng, all the body’s systems function normally, especially its defence function. Ginseng helps to boost the immune system. It is recommended by doctors in autumn and winter to prevent colds.
Tonic effect:	The traditional oriental view of ginseng is that it is a long-acting tonic. In countries where doctors are paid if a patient recovers, ginseng is present in almost every natural remedy with immune-stimulating properties.
General restorative effects:	Scientists have shown that ginseng improves the general well-being of patients. Doctors recommend it for people of all ages to relieve stress, improve mood and sleep.
Anti-stress:	Ginseng helps the body adapt to all types of stress.
Cardiovascular system:	Clinical studies have shown that ginseng improves blood circulation and reduces platelet adhesion. Chinese nutritionists recommend that ginseng be included in the diet of people suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
Blood sugar content:	Clinical studies have shown the normalising effect of ginseng on blood sugar levels. Doctors recommend its use as an integral part of a wellness diet for diabetes.
Antioxidant effects:	To date, many studies have shown that red ginseng has strong antioxidant properties. This makes ginseng indispensable in the prevention of many illnesses caused by free radicals.
Sexual health:	Ginseng improves general health as well as physical and sexual activity. However, it cannot be regarded as an aphrodisiac.
Longevity:	The effects of ginseng cumulate (accumulate). When used regularly, ginseng not only has beneficial effects on health and tone, but also promotes longevity.
Anti-cancer effects:	A large number of researchers, studying the properties of ginseng, have found that it can reduce the size of tumours.

Research in recent years has revealed more and more of ginseng’s beneficial properties.

Recovery process and side effects

Generally, ginseng is suitable and approved for use by all people, regardless of gender or age.

However, people vary considerably in body build and health status, and may experience both an improvement in body functions and the occurrence of side effects (e.g. allergic reactions), which are extremely rare.

An allergic reaction to ginseng is extremely rare. If an allergy occurs, simply stop taking ginseng and all symptoms will disappear quickly.

Special uses and drug interactions

No undesirable effects have been observed in pregnant women taking Korean ginseng. However, no studies have been conducted on the effects of ginseng on pregnant and breastfeeding women, so it is best to avoid taking ginseng at this time.

Red Korean ginseng improves circulation and the cardiovascular system in general, and does not normally cause high blood pressure. However, people with severe hypertension should use ginseng, starting with half a single dose, and monitor the pressure changes.

Ginseng can lower blood sugar levels. For this reason, people taking hypoglycaemic medication should consult a doctor before using ginseng, as it may increase the blood sugar-lowering effect.

It is not recommended to take ginseng in case of acute infectious diseases, epilepsy, increased bleeding.