However, there is not enough research to support these claims.
There are also some safety concerns around the herb’s use.
It may impact their symptoms and interact with their medications.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Its also sometimes taken for inflammatory conditions or to help lower blood sugar in those with diabetes.
Several meta-analyses and systematic reviews have evaluated studies conducted on the use of ginseng in diabetes.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Ginseng did improve fasting glucose and postprandial insulin but not postprandial glucose and fasting insulin.
However, the overall clinical effect was modest.
Blood glucose levels dropped by about 5 milligrams/deciliter and most of the individuals already had well-controlled glucose levels.
More well-designed studies are necessary before recommending ginseng for blood sugar management.
What Is Hemoglobin A1C?
Cholesterol
High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for developing coronary artery disease.
Some studies have shown thatPanax ginsengmay have a cholesterol-lowering effect.
But a small subgroup had some significant changes when ginseng was taken at higher doses or for longer periods.
A separate meta-analysis found thatPanax ginsengreduced total and LDL-cholesterol levels but did not improve HDL-cholesterol.
Again, further high-quality research is necessary to determine what dosage will achieve the desired effect on cholesterol levels.
Dietary supplements should only be taken in addition to (not instead of) medical standard care.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Inflammation
Low-grade inflammation is thought to lead to several diseases and conditions.
The researchers also mentioned some of the studies were biased.
Further research is necessary to determine the dosage that will result in significant reductions of these markers.
More clinical studies are necessary to confirm whether ginseng is an appropriate additional therapy for addressing inflammation.
Other Conditions
Although supplements can help, they are never a cure-all option.
It is important to be wary of any supplement that claims to treat or cure a medical condition.
In some cases, supplements may be touted for a health condition for which they have no benefit.
For instance, studies have found thatPanax ginseng:
What Are the Side Effects of Panax Ginseng?
Ginseng use is common.
It is even found in beverages, which may lead you to believe its completely safe.
But like any herbal supplement or medication, taking it can result in unwanted effects.
The most common side effect of ginseng is insomnia.
Precautions
Children and pregnant or nursing people should avoid takingPanax ginseng.
There is no recommended standard dose ofPanax ginseng.
It is often taken in doses of 200 milligrams (mg) per day in studies.
Some have recommended 5002,000 mg per day if taken from the dry root.
Because dosages can vary, check that to read the product label for instructions on how to take it.
Before startingPanax ginseng, talk to a healthcare provider to determine a safe and appropriate dosage.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Panax Ginseng?
There isnt much data on the toxicity ofPanax ginseng.
Toxicity isnt likely to occur when taken in the appropriate amounts for a short time.
Side effects are more likely if you take too much.
Interactions
Panax ginsenginteracts with several types of medications.
They can help determine if it is safe to takePanax ginseng.
Potential interactions include:
More interactions may occur with other drugs or supplements.
Before takingPanax ginseng, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information on potential interactions.
Recap
Ginseng has the potential to interact with several different types of medications.
How to Store Panax Ginseng
Similar Supplements
There are several different types of ginseng.
Some derive from different plants and may not have the same effect as Panax ginseng.
Supplements can also come from root extract or root powder.
The studies were short-term and had very different methodologies, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions.
Nor is there high-quality research to support its use for people withdementia.
It is an herbal remedy made from the plants root and isnt something you typically get in your diet.
The FDA regulates dietary supplements as food items, which means they arent regulated as strictly as drugs are.
Ginseng is often found in herbal supplements and drinks.
Ginseng supplementation may result in some mild effects.
It also interacts with several different medications.
It is important to discuss herbal remedies with your healthcare provider to understand their risks versus their benefits.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Asian ginseng.
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A meta-analysis and systematic review of clinical randomized trials.J Ethnopharmacol.
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