What Are the Health Benefits of Panax Ginseng?

Panax ginseng, a type of ginseng commonly used in herbal medicine, has been touted for several health benefits, including in cholesterol, inflammation, diabetes, and other uses. However, there is not enough high-quality research to confirm the benefits of this herb.

The ginseng plant grows in the mountains of East Asia, where its roots are harvested into ginseng that is consumed––often in teas and supplements.

This article takes a closer look at Panax ginseng's benefits, its researched uses, potential side effects, and what to look for when buying supplements.

Purported Uses of Panax Ginseng

Panax ginseng is often promoted as a general tonic to improve well-being or cholesterol health. It's also sometimes taken for inflammatory conditions or to help lower blood sugar in those with diabetes.

Though touted to help with several health conditions, there is not enough high-quality research to provide clear recommendations for Panax ginseng's use.

Diabetes

Panax ginseng may have a glucose-lowering effect and has been studied as an add-on therapy in people with diabetes. Several meta-analyses and systematic reviews have evaluated studies conducted on the use of ginseng in diabetes.

One meta-analysis found that supplementing ginseng did not lower hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Ginseng did improve fasting glucose and postprandial insulin but not postprandial glucose and fasting insulin.

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in PLOS One found that ginseng, compared with a placebo, significantly reduced fasting blood glucose.

However, the overall clinical effect was modest. Blood glucose levels dropped by about 5 milligrams/deciliters and most of the individuals already had well-controlled glucose levels. This is important because a modest change may result in statistical significance, but the actual clinical significance is questionable.

In this same review, ginseng did not affect fasting plasma insulin, insulin resistance scores, or HbA1C levels.

An earlier systematic review concluded that, based on the available research, the effect of Panax ginseng on blood sugar management for people with diabetes is not convincing.

Getting convincing evidence from a meta-analysis is challenging because study designs vary widely, including different types or forms of ginseng, doses, and study lengths.

More well-designed studies are necessary before recommending ginseng for blood sugar management.

Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for developing coronary artery disease. Some studies have shown that Panax ginseng may have a cholesterol-lowering effect.

One meta-analysis of the effects of ginseng on lipid profiles found that there was no significant overall improvement in cholesterol, triglyceride, or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. But a small subgroup had some significant changes when ginseng was taken at higher doses or for longer periods.

A separate meta-analysis found that Panax ginseng reduced total and LDL-cholesterol levels but did not improve HDL-cholesterol.

A systematic review of research in people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes showed that Panax ginseng lowered total and LDL-cholesterol when the dose was at least 2 grams daily.

In another meta-analysis from Korea, Panax ginseng reduced blood pressure, total and LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels when compared with a placebo.

Again, further high-quality research is necessary to determine what dosage will achieve the desired effect on cholesterol levels.

Dietary supplements should only be taken in addition to (not instead of) medical standard care. If you have high cholesterol, talk to your healthcare provider about an appropriate plan that includes diet modification, physical activity, and medications.

Inflammation

Low-grade inflammation is thought to lead to several diseases and conditions. As a result, there is a major focus on products that have anti-inflammatory effects, which may include ginseng.

A systematic review of the effects of ginseng on inflammatory markers found that ginseng may lower interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (alpha TNF-α) but not C-reactive protein (CRP).

The researchers also mentioned some of the studies were biased. Further research is necessary to determine the dosage that will result in significant reductions of these markers.

A separate meta-analysis found that ginseng did significantly reduce CRP levels but only in individuals who already had an elevated CRP.

More clinical studies are necessary to confirm whether ginseng is an appropriate additional therapy for addressing inflammation.

Other Conditions

Although supplements can help, they are never a "cure-all" option. It is important to be wary of any supplement that claims to treat or cure a medical condition. In some cases, supplements may be touted for a health condition for which they have no benefit.

For instance, studies have found that Panax ginseng:

• Is not effective for relieving hot flashes
• Doesn't boost athletic endurance
• Has not proved that it can fight cancer
• Does not appear to prevent or treat upper respiratory infections

What Are the Side Effects of Panax Ginseng?

Ginseng use is common. It is even found in beverages, which may lead you to believe it's completely safe. But like any herbal supplement or medication, taking it can result in unwanted effects.

The most common side effect of ginseng is insomnia. Additional reported side effects include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Blood pressure changes
• Mastalgia (breast pain)
• Vaginal bleeding

Allergic reactions, severe rash, and liver damage are less common side effects but can be serious.

Precautions

Children and pregnant or nursing people should avoid taking Panax ginseng.

If you are considering taking Panax ginseng, talk to your healthcare provider if you have:

• High blood pressure: Panax ginseng may affect blood pressure.
• Diabetes: Panax ginseng may lower blood sugar levels and interact with diabetes medications.
• Blood clotting disorders: Panax ginseng can interfere with blood clotting and interact with some anticoagulant drugs.

Dosage: How Much Panax Ginseng Should I Take?

The dosage of Panax ginseng depends on the type of ginseng, the reason for using it, and the amount of ginsenosides in the supplement.

There is no recommended standard dose of Panax ginseng. It is often taken in doses of 200 milligrams (mg) per day in studies. Some have recommended 500–2,000 mg per day if taken from the dry root. When taken in capsules, dosages can range from 100–600 mg per day in divided doses.

Because dosages can vary, make sure to read the product label for instructions on how to take it. Before starting Panax ginseng, talk to a healthcare provider to determine a safe and appropriate dosage.

What Happens if I Take Too Much Panax Ginseng?

There isn't much data on the toxicity of Panax ginseng. Toxicity isn't likely to occur when taken in the appropriate amounts for a short time. Side effects are more likely if you take too much.

Interactions

Panax ginseng interacts with several types of medications. It is important to tell your healthcare provider all the prescription and OTC medication, herbal remedies, and supplements you take. They can help determine if it is safe to take Panax ginseng.

Potential interactions include:

• Caffeine or stimulant drugs: The combination with ginseng may increase heart rate or blood pressure.
• Blood thinners such as Jantoven (warfarin): Ginseng may slow blood clotting and decrease the effectiveness of certain blood thinners. If you take blood thinners, discuss Panax ginseng with your healthcare provider before starting it. They may be able to check your blood levels and adjust dosage accordingly.
• Insulin or oral diabetes medications: Using these with ginseng may result in hypoglycemia because they help lower blood sugar levels.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) Nardil (phenelzine): Ginseng may increase the risk of side effects associated with MAOIs, including manic-like symptoms.
• Diuretic Lasix (furosemide): Ginseng may reduce the effectiveness of furosemide.
• QT-interval-prolonging medications: Ginseng may increase the risk of irregular heart rhythm.
• Ginseng can increase the risk of liver toxicity if taken with certain medications, including Gleevec (imatinib) and Isentress (raltegravir).
• Zelapar (selegiline): Panax ginseng may affect the levels of selegiline.
• Panax ginseng can interfere with drugs processed by an enzyme called cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4).

More interactions may occur with other drugs or supplements. Before taking Panax ginseng, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information on potential interactions.

How to Store Panax Ginseng

Follow manufacturer directions for the best way to store Panax ginseng. Always keep out of reach of children and pets.

Similar Supplements

There are several different types of ginseng. Some derive from different plants and may not have the same effect as Panax ginseng. Supplements can also come from root extract or root powder.

Additionally, ginseng may be classified by the following:

• Fresh (less than 4 years old)
• White (4–6 years old, peeled and then dried)
• Red (more than 6 years old, steamed and then dried)

Sources of Panax Ginseng and What to Look For

Panax ginseng comes from the root of the plant in the genus Panax. It is an herbal remedy made from the plant's root and isn't something you typically get in your diet.

When looking for a ginseng supplement, consider the following:

• The type of ginseng
• Which part of the plant the ginseng came from (e.g., root)
• Which form of ginseng is included (e.g., powder or extract)
• The amount of ginsenosides in the supplement (the standard recommended amount of ginsenoside content in supplements is 1.5–7%)

For any supplement or herbal product, look for one that has been third-party tested. This provides some quality assurance in that the supplement contains what the label says it does and is free of harmful contaminants. Look for labels from the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), the National Science Foundation (NSF), or ConsumerLab.

Summary

Herbal remedies and alternative medicines are popular, but don't forget that just because something is labeled "natural" doesn't mean it's safe. The FDA regulates dietary supplements as food items, which means they aren't regulated as strictly as drugs are.

Ginseng is often found in herbal supplements and drinks. It is touted to help manage many health conditions, but there is not enough research to prove the efficacy of its use. When searching for products, look for supplements certified for quality by an independent third party, like the NSF, or ask your healthcare provider for a reputable brand recommendation.

Ginseng supplementation may result in some mild effects. It also interacts with several different medications. It is important to discuss herbal remedies with your healthcare provider to understand their risks versus their benefits.