American Ginseng: Benefits, Side Effects & Dosage
What is American Ginseng? Ginseng is a buzzword in the supplement world. Around 800,000 pounds of American ginseng are produced each year, but are its benefits the real deal? (x)
Let’s start with some basics. There are at least ten varieties of ginseng, each with its own characteristics and benefits.
So where does ginseng grow in America? You can find most ginseng on ginseng farms, although it also grows wild in Appalachia and the Ozark areas.
American ginseng, also known as panax quinquefolius, can only be harvested if the plants are at least five years old. Agricultural groups heavily regulate wild ginseng growth, which means if you pick ginseng in the wild, you may have to fork up a hefty fine. These strict restrictions stem from its high demand and its dwindling supply: agricultural groups classify American ginseng as “vulnerable” in some states, meaning it’s at high risk for becoming endangered.
What Does Ginseng Look Like? Ginseng plants grow to 18 inches in height and feature groups of five leaves. Only mature plants grow red berries. American ginseng prefers moist soil and lots of shade.
While many supplements, teas, and tinctures use its leaves for medicinal benefits, the nutrient-rich ginseng root is the most popular form of the supplement. The root resembles ginger root and fetches incredibly high prices in Asia. Roots with longer offshoots are considered more desirable.
What Cultures Use Ginseng? Native American medicine uses ginseng as an essential healing ingredient.
In the 18th century American colonies, ginseng was a prized commodity. Thomas Jefferson wrote about American ginseng in his botany studies, and America paid off debts to France by selling this herb to international traders.
Asian ginseng and American ginseng are popular in China but for different purposes; nevertheless, both are essential herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. In fact, America exports 80 percent of its ginseng to China (x).
Can ginseng really add some zip to your day? Can it give you an extra boost in the bedroom? Or help you remember every task on your to-do list? Read on to find out.
American Ginseng Benefits Natural Antioxidant & Adaptogen
Ginseng contains compounds called ginsenosides, which may be the key to its superpowers. Ginsenosides act as antioxidants, fighting cell damage and reducing signs of disease and aging. American ginseng contains 30 different types of ginsenosides unique to this species (x).
American ginseng is also an adaptogen, which means it benefits your overall health. It can support healthy adrenal function, which could boost your energy.
Ginseng and Cancer Chemotherapy, radiation, and other medications can lead to chronic fatigue in cancer patients. Ginseng could give cancer patients more energy to help them fight the fatigue associated with chemotherapy (x). In studies, scientists administered ginseng to patients undergoing treatment (not those recovering from previous cancer treatments), and noted that it significantly improved patients’ energy levels (x).
Focus and Memory Brain fog bogging you down? American ginseng could sharpen your focus and memory. One study found that when taken in 100 mg doses, it improved memory recall. In the study, participants completed a variety of cognition tests and activities before and after taking several doses; they performed significantly better when they took American ginseng compared to when they did not (x).
Ginseng and Sexual Health Although research is ongoing, some studies indicate that ginseng could help with erectile dysfunction (ED) (x). As long as you stick to the recommended dosage, the Mayo Clinic recognizes ginseng as a safe and effective natural treatment for erectile dysfunction (x). Scientists aren’t exactly sure how ginseng works to relieve ED, but they’ve proposed several theories (x):
1. Ginseng may act similarly to testosterone to stimulate an erection. 2. Ginseng promotes nitric oxide production, which stimulates healthy blood flow and relaxation to relieve ED. 3. Ginsenosides may work to stimulate an erection by relaxing muscles and promoting circulation.
Immune Support If the cold and flu medication aisle is your best friend during allergy season and chilly winter months, try American ginseng: some studies show ginseng may lessen the severity of the common cold (x). While it doesn’t seem to prevent illness, it could cut down on the length of time it takes to recover by almost a week (x).
Did You Know? ● Ginseng is a prized herb in China and a popular Chinese gift. ● Pure ginseng ain’t cheap! In its raw form, the root can fetch a whopping $9,000 per pound! (x) ● According to Traditional Chinese Medicine categorization, American ginseng has “cool” energy while Chinese ginseng has “warm” energy. ● Wisconsin grows 95 percent of the American ginseng exported internationally.
American Ginseng Side Effects and Dosage You can typically find American ginseng available in capsules, teas, and as a powder. Always Check the label before you buy American ginseng, as some brands may only contain a tiny percentage of the herb.
American ginseng extract powder generally contains a purer concentration of the herb’s beneficial compounds. As a dietary supplement, take 1000 mg (rounded 1/2 tsp) one to two times daily, or as directed by your physician.
Side Effects of Ginseng Some reported side effects include changes in heart rate, breast tenderness and vaginal bleeding in women, digestive issues, and nervousness.
Avoid drinking coffee when you take ginseng, as it could increase the risk of insomnia.
Do not take American ginseng if you are pregnant or nursing, if you have diabetes, or if you have schizophrenia.
American ginseng can interfere with certain medications, including antidepressants, aspirin and blood pressure pills.
The Bottom Line Cultures across the world have prized ginseng for centuries for its numerous health benefits. American ginseng boasts its own unique benefits and could relieve erectile dysfunction, improve your focus and energy, and even shorten the length of your cold. While you should always talk to your doctor before taking any supplement, the buzz around ginseng isn’t just marketing buzz–the benefits of this ancient herb are solidly backed by science.