Asian Ginseng - Panax ginseng

Detailed Description

A revitalizing and all-healing root enjoyed for centuries, prized by emperors for its adaptogenic power.

Botanical Information

Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a perennial herb reaching up to 60 cm in height. Its underground part consists of one to two parsnip-like roots that may branch, reaching several decimeters in length and about 3 cm in diameter. The aboveground stem is unbranched, dies back each year, and regenerates from the root crown. Up to seven compound leaves grow from the stem (each made up of three leaflets).

Origin and Distribution

Ginseng originally grew in the forested regions of northeastern China, eastern Russia around the Ussuri River and along the seacoast. It also occurs, isolated from these regions, in the mountains of North Korea near Kaesong. In various other Chinese provinces, ginseng is now widely cultivated.

Usage / Dosage

Asian Ginseng is one of the most renowned exotic medicinal plants. In traditional folk medicine, Japanese, and Korean medicine, it occupies a place of honor. As early as the first century BCE, ginseng was described in classical herbal texts as a tonic that benefits the five vital organs, calms the mind, and improves mental state. Throughout history, ginseng's extensive use joined the realm of legend—it was reserved for emperors and high officials, and upon its arrival in Europe via Marco Polo, became a privilege of aristocrats and the wealthy.

The most commonly used part is the dried root—either whole or sliced. Sometimes the leaves are also used, either alone or in combination with the root. Ginseng's active compounds are also found in small amounts in energy drinks and specialty coffees. Its invigorating effects make it popular in cosmetics and hair conditioners.

Extensive research and clinical studies have demonstrated complex benefits for the cardiovascular (slows heart rate, increases vessel capacity, improves circulation, reduces risk of heart attack and stroke without affecting arterial pressure), nervous, and immune systems, with additional effects on endocrine glands.

Some studies highlight the cardioprotective effects of ginsenosides, including reduced cardiac hypertrophy, decreased risk of ischemic heart disease, and improved heart function, observed via both in vitro and in vivo models.

Other clinical studies support ginseng's antihypertensive effect, such as normalization of blood pressure and improved endothelial function of arteries in patients with diagnosed hypertension, particularly as cited in Korean research.

Multiple in-vivo studies report weight loss after eight weeks of ginseng root extract administration. Its compounds appear to reduce adipogenesis (fat accumulation) partly by inhibiting factors that stimulate new blood vessels in fat tissue, thus helping prevent obesity. Similar in-vitro studies confirm ginseng’s anti-obesity effect.

Ginseng’s adaptogenic effect stems from improved tissue oxygenation and more efficient metabolism of fats and sugars. It helps lower blood glucose and favorably influences glycemic values in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Animal models confirm the hypoglycemic effect of ginseng root compounds—not only reducing plasma glucose, but also total and “bad” LDL cholesterol. Long-term ginseng extract supplementation significantly lowers oxidative stress, improves cardiovascular parameters, and enhances glomerular filtration (a marker of kidney health), suggesting a role in preventing diabetic nephropathy.

Generally, ginseng is used to boost mental and physical capacity during weakness, fatigue, and exhaustion. It elevates alertness and concentration, counteracts tiredness, and in combination with ginkgo biloba extract, it enhances stamina during both physical and mental stress, refreshes the body, increases vitality, and helps people better cope with stress.

Four specific ginsenosides and compound K in ginseng root exhibit neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system by suppressing ROS synthesis, lowering TNF-α production, and reducing inflammation, resulting in enhanced cognitive function, improved memory, and protection against exhaustion-induced neuronal fatigue. In combination with ginkgo compounds, brain circulation is also boosted.

As unique active constituents, ginsenosides have been studied extensively; findings consistently point to a strengthened immune system and support of immune components (such as T-cells and natural killer cells) during viral infections. Half of studied patients experienced complete recovery from infections, with the rest noting faster healing and fewer complications.

Ginseng generally stimulates the activity and function of the immune system. In animal and cell models, its use triggered increased interleukin levels and stimulated both B- and T-lymphocytes, prolonged lymphocyte proliferation, and enhanced dendritic cell maturation. Additional studies demonstrated elevated expression of markers that support immune defenses.

Traditional regions where ginseng is part of the daily routine are noted for their vibrant senior populations and the world's lowest rates of cancer. These effects are credited mainly to its antioxidant activity and possible immune stimulation, which together contribute to longevity, improved physiological function in advanced age, and reduced stress via antioxidant neutralization and diminished vascular endothelial growth factor activity.

Meta-analyses of about 30 randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies show that active ginseng root substances or extracts may support sexual health, particularly in men, notably improving erection. Multiple clinical trials favorably evaluated ginseng for treating erectile dysfunction.

Folk Medicine

In traditional folk healing, ginseng is a prized supplement for treating diabetes, stress, and as an aphrodisiac. Folk medicine in Southeast Asia advises ginseng for fighting fatigue and boosting both mental and physical resilience. Healers recommend the root for various forms of heart and nervous system weakness, and in traditional Chinese medicine, it is given as a warming remedy for prevention and treatment of many disorders.

Cautions

No significant adverse or side effects have been observed, provided the recommended daily dose is not exceeded. Toxic effects are rare even at higher doses. Long-term studies using up to 15 grams per kilogram of body weight noted only increases in blood pressure, insomnia, digestive complaints, depression, and confusion.

Caution: Do not use if sensitive or allergic to any ingredient in the preparation.

Active Compounds

Asian Ginseng contains an array of active constituents—the most important are saponins (ginsenosides), antioxidants, polysaccharides, and peptides. The first isolated ginseng compound was a glycoside named panaquilon, followed by the saponin panaxin. Around 70 different saponins have been identified, collectively called ginsenosides. Antioxidants such as maltol and salicylic acid, as well as the immunostimulant compound gitan, are also present in significant amounts. Other notable substances include triterpenoid saponins.

Traditional Dosage

The most therapeutically valuable part of ginseng is its dried root, typically dried in sunlight or in a sugar solution under artificial light. Before use, it may be powdered or sliced. Available forms include whole root, extract, syrup, or capsules—either pure or blended with other ingredients, often vitamins.

Traditionally, ginseng is brewed as a tea, found in alcoholic tinctures, or compressed into tablet form.

Fresh leaves can also be used, either brewed as tea or added raw to salads. Dried leaves are steeped at approximately 1 gram per teapot, using water below boiling point (~100°C).