What Ginseng Is and What It Does? Ginseng: Health Benefits, Facts, and Research


What Is Ginseng :

Ginseng is the dried root of one of several species of Araliaceae. The most commonly used type is Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A., Meyer), often sold as Panax, Chinese, or Korean ginseng. Closely related to Asian ginseng is American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.), which may be preferred due to its mild effects. Siberian ginseng, also known as eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus Rupr ex Maxim), is not very closely related to the other two and contains many unrelated compounds. Siberian ginseng is also considered to be less potent and is a cheaper ingredient. Foods and supplements containing ginseng are usually made from ginseng root powder or extract.


What It Does:

Ginseng is commonly used in the United States to improve overall energy and vitality, especially during times of fatigue and stress. Although there is little clinical evidence to support the energy-enhancing effect, it has potential value in normalizing postprandial blood glucose levels in diabetics, stimulating immune function, treating male impotence, and improving memory when used in combination with Ginkgo biloba. There is research to support it improving the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. A phytochemical called ginsenoside is thought to play a role in the activity of ginseng. They are considered "marker" compounds of ginseng. That is, their presence (or absence) and chemical profile can indicate the type and quality of ginseng in the product.



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