Ginseng
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
The term ginseng refers to several species of the genus Panax. For more than 2,000 years, the roots of this slow-growing plant have been valued in Chinese medicine. The two most commonly used species are Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer), which is mostly extinct in its natural range but is still cultivated, and American ginseng (P. quinquefolius L.), which is both harvested from the wild and cultivated.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Cognitive and psychomotor performance B
Diabetes B
Diabetic kidney damage B
Erectile dysfunction B
Premature ejaculation B
Aplastic anemia C
Bronchodilation C
Cancer prevention C
Congestive heart failure C
Coronary artery disease C
Exercise performance C
Fatigue, stress C
Fistula C
High blood pressure C
Immune system stimulation C
Intracranial pressure C
Liver protection C
Male infertility C
Memory, dementia C
Mental health C
Postmenopausal symptoms C
Respiratory illness C
Viral myocarditis C
Well-being C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid ginseng if known allergy to plants in the Araliaceae family. There has been a report of a serious life-threatening skin reaction, possibly caused by contaminants in the ginseng formulation.

Possible side effects:
Altered blood cell counts, alteration in blood clotting, alteration in menstrual cycle or blood pressure, altered hearth rhythm, blurred vision, cessation of menstruation in younger women, breast tenderness chest pain, delayed ejaculation, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, drowsiness, erectile dysfunction, fever, headache, increased breast growth, increased sex drive, irritation and burning, loss of appetite, mild pain, nausea, nervousness, nosebleeds, rapid and pounding heartbeats, skin disturbances (such as itching or rose spots), stomach discomfort, swelling, throat irritation, vaginal bleeding in postmenopausal women, vomiting, water retention.

Possible interactions:
Anticoagulants/blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin®), drugs that are broken down by the liver, HIV drugs like protease inhibitors, drugs that lower blood sugar levels, digoxin (Lanoxin®), nifedipine (Procardia®), blood pressure drugs, over-the-counter drugs for treating cold symptoms (like pseudoephedrine), diuretics and central nervous system stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®), corticosteroids, hormonal drugs, antipsychotics, opioids like morphine, phenelzine (Nardil®), alcohol, metronidazole (Flagyl®), and disulfiram (Antabuse®), herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adult (18 years and older):
Ginseng is sold in the forms of tea, capsules, tablets, chewing gum, candy, cigarettes, elixirs, extracts and topical preparations. Doses ranging from 100mg to 2 grams have been used.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.