Overview

Ginseng is a medicinal plant with thick roots. Its plant is short and has sluggish growth. Ginseng is light in colour with fork-shaped roots. The stalk of the ginseng plant is tall and has oval green leaves. Ginsen grows in Korea, China, and Siberia. It’s considered an adaptogen, which are natural substances that are believed to stimulate the body’s resistance to stressors. Panax ginseng contains many active chemicals. The most important are called ginsenosides or panaxosides.

Benefits

Ginseng may improve brain functions and boost mood. These effects were visible in both healthy and Alzheimer’s patients. Additionally, there is some preliminary evidence that ginseng may improve focus and short-term memory.
Ginseng may help relieve exhaustion and boost energy. Some components in ginseng deliver this benefit. Polysaccharides and oligopeptides are two of them. These are said to decrease oxidative stress. It also leads to an increase in energy synthesis in cells. Thus, it may aid in fatigue management.Ginseng may also support the stimulation of physical and mental activity. This effect was notable in weary and weak volunteers.
Ginseng may treat erectile dysfunction in men. In addition, it appears that the substances in it may protect against oxidative stress in blood vessels and tissues in the penis. Hence, it may aid in the restoration of normal function.
Ginseng is rich in two compounds- ginsenosides and gintonin. These substances work together to provide health benefits. ginseng may help decrease blood sugar and manage diabetes. Ginsenosides may influence insulin synthesis in the pancreas. It reduces insulin resistance through different pathways.
Ginsenosides in ginseng appear to control inflammation, offer antioxidant protection, and preserve cell health. Consequently, it lowers the risk of certain cancers.
Ginseng is a reliable source for the treatment and prevention of flu. It may also work against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is a virus that causes lung and respiratory infections.
Ginseng may help fight fatigue and enhance physical performance by lowering oxidative damage and increasing energy production in cells.

Dosage

As a dietary supplements for adults take 1 capsule twice a day  or as directed by physician.

Precautions

Ginseng is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. One of the chemicals in ginseng has been found to cause birth defects in animals. Do not use ginseng if you are pregnant.

Side Effects

Ginseng is possibly unsafe when taken for more than 6 months. It might have some hormone-like effects that could be harmful when used long-term. The most common side effect is trouble sleeping. Uncommon side effects that have been reported include severe rash, liver damage, and severe allergic reactions.

Nutritional Value

One tsp ginseng provides:

Calories: 1.6
Carbohydrates: 0.4 gm
Fats: 0 gm
Protein: 0 gm
Potassium 8.3 mg
Sodium: 0.3 mg
Vitamin C: 0.2 % RDI (Required Daily Intake)
Iron: 0.1% RDI