Possible benefits of ginseng range from improving thinking to treating erectile dysfunction and lowering blood sugar. It may also help reduce inflammation.
Ginseng refers to 11 different varieties of a short, slow-growing plant with fleshy roots. It has a light-colored, forked-shaped root, a relatively long stalk, and green leaves in an oval shape.
Both American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius, L.) and Asian ginseng (P. Ginseng) may boost energy, lower blood sugar, manage erectile dysfunction, and more.
People have traditionally taken ginseng to help with a range of medical conditions.
More research is needed to confirm whether it is beneficial as a supplement. Researchers believe that ginsenosides, chemical components found in ginseng, are responsible for any clinical effects of the herb.
Western scientists and health professionals often question the medicinal properties of ginseng. There is
Ginseng products can vary in their quality and potential medicinal properties. A person should check the ingredients of any ginseng product before purchase, as some products may contain a small or negligible amount of ginseng, and some could contain other substances.
Researchers suggest that ginseng may have the following health benefits:
Increased energy
Ginseng may help stimulate physical and mental activity in people who feel weak and tired.
A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis found that ginseng herbal formulas mildly improved fatigue severity, particularly in people with chronic fatigue, in comparison to controls. However, the study authors also noted that further high quality research is necessary.
Sharper cognitive function
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A 2024 review also found that ginseng may help improve cognition in “healthy” individuals, as well as those with subjective memory impairment, mild cognitive impairment, or early Alzheimer’s disease who are taking medication for Alzheimer’s disease.
However, the authors also highlighted that further research into the mechanism behind these improvements is necessary.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Ginseng may reduce inflammation.
According to a
Additionally, a
Treatment of erectile dysfunction
Some people with penises take ginseng to treat erectile dysfunction.
A 2021 systematic review found that there is mainly low certainty evidence suggesting that ginseng may only have trivial effects on erectile function or satisfaction with sexual intercourse in comparison to a placebo. However, the review authors also noted that it may improve men’s self‐reported ability to have sexual intercourse.
More research is needed to determine if ginseng could be a reliable treatment for erectile dysfunction.
You’ll notice the language used to share stats and other data points is pretty binary, fluctuating between the use of “male” and “female” or “men” and “women.” While we typically avoid language like this, specificity is key when reporting on research participants and clinical findings.
Flu prevention
A 2020 review found that several studies suggested that various components in ginseng may influence the immune system and help to prevent influenza, colds, and other respiratory infections.
However, further research into this topic is necessary.
Lowering blood sugar
Research from 2020 suggests that ginsenosides may help lower blood sugar and help treat diabetes. Ginsenosides may reduce insulin resistance by regulating how the body breaks down lipids and blood sugar.
However, more clinical studies are needed to determine whether ginseng is a possible complementary therapy for diabetes. Researchers also need to investigate what specific doses might be effective.
Although ginseng is generally safe to consume, people
- insomnia
- liver damage
- severe skin rash
- severe allergic reaction
Some healthcare professionals recommend that pregnant people, those who are breastfeeding or chestfeeding, children, and infants should not take ginseng.
Anaphylaxis: Symptoms and what to do
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. The symptoms develop suddenly and include:
- hives
- swelling of the face or mouth
- wheezing
- fast, shallow breathing
- a fast heart rate
- clammy skin
- anxiety or confusion
- dizziness
- vomiting
- blue or white lips
- fainting or loss of consciousness
If someone has these symptoms:
- Check whether they are carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it.
- Dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department.
- Assist the person in moving from a sitting position to lying down. If they have vomited, turn them onto their side.
- Stay with them until the emergency services arrive.
Some people may need more than one epinephrine injection. If the symptoms do not improve in 5 to 15 minutes, or they come back, use a second pen if the person has one.
Ginseng
- phenelzine, which is a type of monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
- diabetes medications
- blood thinners, such as warfarin
- drugs that help treat cancer, such as immunosuppressants
However, the above list is not exhaustive. People should not take ginseng and medications at the same time without first consulting a doctor.
People may consume ginseng in a number of different ways.
For example, they may peel and chew raw ginseng root, add it to food, or steep it in hot water to make ginseng tea.
Other forms of ginseng may include:
- dried powder or extracts that a person may add to food or beverages
- pills
- capsules
A person should always consult a doctor before taking ginseng for the first time.
While researchers have not confirmed the various potential health benefits of ginseng supplements, it is usually safe to take the herb in small doses.
Before purchasing a new ginseng supplement, people should compare brands and individual products to ensure the supplement is suitable and safe for them. They should also always speak with a doctor.