7 Proven Health Benefits of Ginseng

Ginseng has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many centuries. It is a short slow growing plant with fleshy roots, depending on how long it is grow roots can be white or red.

Fresh ginseng is harvested before 4 years, while white ginseng is harvested between 4–6 years and red ginseng is harvested after 6 or more years.

There are many types of this herb, but the most popular is American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). It is believed that American ginseng works as a relaxing agent, whereas the Asian variety has an invigorating effect (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).

Ginseng contains two significant compounds: ginsenosides and gintonin. These compounds complement one another to provide health benefits (3Trusted Source).

7 evidence-based health benefits of ginseng

1. Potent Anti-Oxidant That May Reduce Inflammation

Ginseng has beneficial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (4Trusted Source).

One study investigated the effects of having 18 young male athletes take 2 grams of Korean red ginseng extract three times per day for seven days.

The men then had levels of certain inflammatory markers tested after performing an exercise test. These levels were significantly lower than in the placebo group, lasting for up to 72 hours after testing (8Trusted Source).

Lastly, a larger study followed 71 postmenopausal women who took 3 grams of red ginseng or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. Antioxidant activity and oxidative stress markers were then measured.

2. Could Lower Blood Pressure

Ginseng seems to be beneficial in the control of blood glucose in people both with and without diabetes (44Trusted Source, 45Trusted Source).

3. May Fight Tiredness and Increase Energy Levels

Ginseng has been shown to help fight fatigue and promote energy.

4. May Have Potential Benefits Against Cancer

Ginseng may be helpful in reducing the risk of certain cancers (33Trusted Source).

5. May Boost the Immune System

Ginseng may strengthen the immune system.

Some studies exploring its effects on the immune system have focused on cancer patients undergoing surgery or chemotherapy treatment.

6. Could Improve Erectile Dysfunction

Research has shown that ginseng may be a useful alternative for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men (21Trusted Source, 22Trusted Source).

7. May Benefit Brain Function

Ginseng could help improve brain functions like memory, behavior and mood (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).

Some test-tube and animal studies show that components in ginseng, like ginsenosides and compound K, could protect the brain against damage caused by free radicals (12Trusted Source, 13Trusted Source, 14Trusted Source).

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