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Ginseng (Asian)

(Known as Korean ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Panax ginseng, Ginseng (Asian))

Asian ginseng is an adaptogenic herb thought to improve energy and athletic performance, lower blood sugar, support immune function and reduce fatigue.Asian ginseng can be used by anyone facing an unusually high level of physical or mental stress. Some diabetics also use it to assist blood sugar control, though this should be discussed with a doctor. Asian ginseng is also a popular herb with men wanting to improve their sexual performance.Numerous studies have evaluated the effects of oral ginseng on animals under conditions of extreme stress. The results suggest that ginseng increases physical endurance and may help the body adapt to adverse conditions. Ginseng contains compounds called ginsenosides, with Asian ginseng containing at least 13 ginsenosides. Experts believe these constituents help to counter the effects of stress, improve both physical and mental performance, and support immune function [2, 3].

One study reports increased muscle strength in both men and women after daily supplementation with Asian ginseng for six weeks [4]. Ginseng has also been shown to improve exercise tolerance [9] as well as reduce fatigue and stress when taken in combination with other vitamins and minerals [10, 11].

Several human studies have failed to confirm the purported benefit of Asian ginseng for athletic performance [7, 8]. However, it's important to note that ginseng may have been used in insufficient amounts or for an inadequate length of time [1]. Asian ginseng has also been shown to improve blood sugar levels in type II diabetics [6].

In addition, Korean researchers report that three months of supplementation with Asian ginseng extract improved libido and the ability to maintain an erection [12]. Another trial, this time lasting eight weeks, shows similar results [5].

Ginseng root extracts are often recommended at a dose of 200-500 milligrams per day. We recommend Korean Ginseng Root Extract (standardised to 8% ginsenosides) by SolgarGinseng is used for two to three weeks continuously, followed by a one- to two-week "rest" period before resuming.Used in the recommended amounts, ginseng is generally safe. High doses have been linked with insomnia and should be avoided [10]. Ginseng is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, or anyone with uncontrolled high blood pressure.

1. Bucci LR. Selected herbals and human exercise performance. Am J Clin Nutr 2000;72:624S–36S, review Tomoda M, Hirabayashi K, Shimizu N, et al. Characterization of two novel polysaccharides having immunological activities from the root of Panax ginseng. Biol Pharm Bull 1993;16:1087–90.
2. See DM, Broumand N, Sahi L, et al. In vitro effects of echinacea and ginseng on natural killer and antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity in healthy subjects and chronic fatigue syndrome or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients. Immunopharmacol 1997;35:229–35 McNaughton L. A comparison of Chinese and Russian ginseng as ergogenic aids to improve various facets of physical fitness. Int Clin Nutr Rev 1989;9:32–5 Hong B, Ji YH, Hong JH, et al. A double-blind crossover study evaluating the efficacy of Korean red ginseng in patients with erectile dysfunction: a preliminary report. J Urol 2002;168:2070–3.
3. Sotaniemi EA, Haapakoski E, Rautio A. Ginseng therapy in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Diabetes Care 1995;18:1373–5.
4. Teves MA, Wright JE, Welch MJ, et al. Effects of ginseng on repeated bouts of exhaustive exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1983;15:162.
5. Allen JD, McLung J, Nelson AG, Welsch M. Ginseng supplementation does not enhance healthy young adults’ peak aerobic exercise performance. J Am Coll Nutr 1998;17:462–6.
6. Pieralisi G, Ripari P, Vecchiet L. Effects of a standardized ginseng extract combined with dimethylaminoethanol bitartrate, vitamins, minerals and trace elements on physical performance during exercise. Clin Ther 1991;13:373–82.
7. Le Gal M, Cathebras P, Struby K. Pharmaton capsules in the treatment of functional fatigue: A double-blind study versus placebo evaluated by a new methodology. Phytother Res 1996;10:49–53.
8. Caso Mardsco A, Vargas Ruiz R, Salas Villagomez A, Begona Infante C. Double-blind study of a multivitamin complex supplemented with ginseng extract. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1996;22:323–9.
9. Choi HK, Seong DH, Rha KH. Clinical efficacy of Korean red ginseng for erectile dysfunction. Int J Impotence Res 1995;7:181–6.

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