Ginseng

Ginseng panax is one of several species of plants that produces ginsenosides, steroid-like substances that give the ginseng its medicinal properties. The plants are found in Asia and North America, but only grows as far south as Viet Nam. The Siberian ginseng is not a medicinal ginseng because it contains no ginsenosides. Because it is difficult to cultivate, ginseng has, at times throughout history, commanded very high prices.

Medicinal Claims

Although ginseng’s effectiveness—like any other herbal supplement—is controversial, some studies have given it a positive response in increasing quality of life. Animal studies showed American and Asian ginseng to boost libido and sexual performance. These results may be due to the ginsenosides’ effects on the animals’ sex glands. Ginseng, therefore, may have some promise in relieving sexual dysfunctions.

Warnings and Interactions

Ginseng is one of the better-tolerated supplements and herbal preparations on the market today when dosages and instructions are followed. An occasional allergy may surface, or diarrhea, gastrointestinal discomfort, emotional disruptions, and insomnia can develop. There are some reports of headache, dizziness, fever, rapid heart beat, and blood pressure problems.

Because ginseng may lower blood sugar levels, those with insulin-dependent diabetes should not take ginseng without the close monitoring of a doctor. Patients with hypoglycemia are also on alert, as well as those taking other medications that affect serum glucose levels. Ginseng may reduce the effectiveness of blood thinning medications, and should not take the herb except on the advice and monitoring of a physician. Patients under a doctor’s care for irregular heartbeat should consult with a physician firs before taking this supplement.

Ginseng may also cause post-menopausal vaginal bleeding, breast enlargement and tenderness (in men as well as women), and changes in sexual responsiveness. Those with hormone sensitive cancers such as breast cancer and uterine cancer should not take ginseng due to its estrogen-like properties. Contaminants have been known to cause various problems with ginseng, and pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid it due to its hormone-like behavior.

 There have also been reports of ginseng producing manic symptoms, especially in bipolar patients. Those under a doctor’s care for emotional disorders or mental illness should not take ginseng.