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Ginseng has traditionally been taken to aid a number of medical conditions, which we discuss below. However, as a note of caution,there remains little scientific research to back up how effective ginseng actually is for these.
Both American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius, L.) and Asian Ginseng (P. Ginseng) are believed to provide an energy boost, lower blood sugar andcholesterollevels, reducestress, promote relaxation, treatdiabetes, and treat sexual dysfunction in men.Ginseng can be used to improve the health of people recovering from illness. It increases a sense of wellbeing and stamina, and improves both mental and physical performance. Ginseng can be used to help with erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C, and symptoms relating to menopause, and can also be used for lowering blood glucose levels and controlling blood pressure.
Health Benefits of Ginseng :
Provides energy and prevents fatigue:
 Ginseng stimulates physical and mental activity among people who are weak and tired. A Mayo Clinic study revealed thatginseng showed good results in helping cancer patients with fatigue.Ginseng plant has been used as a medicine in China for over 5,000 years. It is known as an `adaptogen`i.e, it increases the body`s ability to adapt to stress and changing situations.
Improves cognitive function: 
Ginseng may improve thinking ability and cognition. Research published in theThe Cochrane Library, conducted at the Medical School of Nantong University in China, examined whether this claim holds any truth.

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Lead author, JinSong Geng, M.D., said that given the results of the study”Ginseng appears to have some beneficial effects on cognition, behavior and quality of life.”
Another study, published in theJournal of Dairy Science, explored whether it would be possible to incorporate American ginseng into foods.The researchers developed ginseng fortified milk with sufficient levels of ginseng to improve cognitive function.
Has anti-inflammatory effects:
Ginseng has seven constituents, ginsenosides, which have immune-suppressive effects, according to results of experiments which were published in theJournal of Translational Medicine
Allan Lau, who led the study, said that “the anti-inflammatory role of ginseng may be due to the combined effects of these ginsenosides, targeting different levels of immunological activity, and so contributing to the diverse actions of ginseng in humans”.
Prevents cancer:
There may be substances in ginseng that have anticancer properties.A few population studies in Asia have linked the herb’s consumption to a lower risk of cancer.Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center researchers found thatGinseng improved survival and quality of life after a diagnosis of breast cancer.
The American Cancer Society said that “clinical trials are still needed to determine whether it is effective in people.”

May help men with erectile dysfunction:
Men may take ginseng to treaterectile dysfunction. A 2002 Korean study revealed that 60 percent of men who took ginseng noticed an improvement in their symptoms. In addition, research published in theBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacologyprovided”evidence for the effectiveness of red ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Anti-aging benefit:
Ginseng helps slow the signs of aging as it is a significant source of antioxidants which halt the formation of free radicals and another anti-aging substance called maltol.
Physical/mental health stimulant:
Ginseng is believed to be a good tonic that benefits one’s stamina and helps boost energy levels. It helps athletes use oxygen more effectively, and it is believed to regulate metabolism, which can increase energy levels. Consumption of ginseng can also help athletes lower their recovery time and reduce stress. In addition, ginseng tea can act as a stimulant for the brain cells and help improve concentration and thinking ability.
Menstrual problems:
Young women who suffer from menstrual cramps and distress are advised to take American Ginseng Tea. It is also believed to lessen stomach pain associated with menstruation.
Possible side effects of taking ginseng:
Although ginseng is generally considered to be safe to consume, the following side effects have been reported:
*Headaches
*Elevated heart rate
*Nausea
*Restlessness
*Difficulty sleeping.
*Women may also experience swollen breasts and vaginal bleeding.
Ginseng’s associated complications:

Doctors do not recommend taking ginseng along with a class ofantidepressantscalled monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), because it can cause manic episodes and tremors.
Ginseng can alter the effects ofblood pressureand heart medications, includingcalciumchannel blockers such as nifedipine (Procardia®).Never mix ginseng with heart medications without consulting your doctor first.
In addition, ginseng can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that affect blood clotting (such as warfarin oraspirin),according to the American Cancer Society.
Ginseng overdose

Symptoms of mild ginseng overdose include:
*Irritability
*Blurred Vision
*Edema
*Diarrhea
*Bleeding
*Fidgeting
*Excitation
*Dizziness
*Dry mouth.
Symptoms of severe ginseng overdose include:
*Decreased heart rate
*Vomiting
*Nausea
*Convulsions
*Delirium
*aSeizures.
People who experience any of the symptoms listed above should stop taking ginseng and immediately seek medical attention.
Warning:

**Ginseng may cause trouble sleeping. Do not take it in the early evening or at bedtime.

Important safety information:
A.) It is best to avoid taking ginseng for long periods of time (several months or more).
B.) Diabetes patients – Ginseng may affect your blood sugar. 
C.) Check blood sugar levels closely and ask your doctor before adjusting the dose of your diabetes medicine.
D.) Ginseng is not recommended for use in CHILDREN. Safety and effectiveness have not been confirmed.
E.) PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant while taking ginseng, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using ginseng during pregnancy. It is unknown if ginseng is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using ginseng, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
Sources :

http://www.naturaltherapypages.com.au/article/ginseng#ixzz3ewpWcMxW

(http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/262982.php)
Tags : Health Benefits of GinsengHealth Effects of Ginseng Overdose.
Prince

The author Prince

Hi, I’m Prince.. a registered Dietitian, an avid reader and a passionate writer. I hope you enjoy my articles as much as I enjoy writing them

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