Ginseng root, found in Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius, contains ginsenosides that may have beneficial properties, but modern science does not fully understand them. It has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine and can be used raw or prepared in various ways. It is important to consult a doctor before taking ginseng as it can cause side effects and interact with other medications. Other herbs marketed as ginseng do not contain ginsenosides and have different properties and uses.
Ginseng root is the fleshy root of any plant in the genus Panax, commonly known as ginseng. The roots of Panax ginseng, or Asian ginseng, and Panax quinquefolius, or American ginseng, contain ginsenosides, which may have beneficial properties, including increased energy and adaptability to stress. However, ginsenosides are very complex and are not fully understood by modern science, which does not support the claims of herbalists regarding ginseng root. Ginseng root is available in many forms without a prescription, but it is important to consult a doctor before beginning any herbal supplement regimen.
Ginseng root has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Panax ginseng is used to increase Yang energy in the body, while Panax quinquefolius is used to increase Yin energy and remove excess Yang energy. Yin and Yang are opposite and complementary principles that must remain balanced in the body according to traditional Chinese medicine.
Both Asian and American ginseng root can be used raw, but Panax ginseng can also be prepared in a number of ways. In addition to the raw form, Panax ginseng can be air-dried in the sun to produce white ginseng, or steam-cured with the peel to produce red ginseng. White ginseng can be further processed with very high-temperature steam to create solar ginseng. Red ginseng is traditionally indicated to increase energy and sexual function, particularly for men suffering from erectile dysfunction.
Modern herbalists refer to ginsenosides as adaptogens, meaning they promote the body’s ability to cope with stress, fatigue, and anxiety. Ginseng root is taken orally and is usually dried. It can be taken in capsule form or boiled as an infusion. Ginseng root can cause side effects including insomnia, headache, nausea, diarrhea, nosebleeds, sinus pain, and changes in blood pressure. It may also have adverse interactions with other medications and supplements, so it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking ginseng if you are already taking medications or herbal supplements.
It is also important to note a number of products marketed as ginseng that do not belong to the Panax genus and therefore do not contain ginsenosides, although they may contain similar compounds. Some of these herbs are marketed as Alaskan ginseng, Brazilian ginseng, female ginseng, Indian ginseng, Peruvian ginseng, princely ginseng, Siberian ginseng, and southern ginseng. All of these herbs have different properties and uses than true Panax ginseng, so it is important not to confuse them with one another.
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