Asian ginseng: common name its uses the potential side effects, and resources and detailed information about Panax ginseng

This newsletter contains basic information about herbs Asian ginseng common parts of the plant used for its taste, smell, or potential therapeutic properties. Includes flowers, leaves, bark, fruits, seeds, stems and roots.

Asian ginseng: common name its uses the potential side effects, and resources and more information.

Asian ginseng is native to China and Korea and has been used in various systems of medicine for many centuries. Asian ginseng is one of several types of true ginseng (another American ginseng, Panax quinquefolius). Herb called Siberian ginseng or Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is not a true ginseng.

Common names Asian ginseng, ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Korean ginseng, Asiatic ginseng

Latin Name-Panax ginseng

What is it used for
Addresses requirements for Asian ginseng are numerous and include the use of herbs to support overall health and strengthen the immune system. Traditional and modern uses of ginseng include:

Improving the health of people recovering from illness
Increased feelings of well-being and stamina, as well as improving mental and physical performance
Treatment of erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C, and symptoms associated with menopause
Reduction of blood glucose and controlling blood pressure

How it is used
The root of Asian ginseng contains active chemical components called ginsenosides (or panaxosides), which are considered responsible for the medicinal properties of herbs's. The root was dried and used to tablets or capsules, extracts and teas, as well as creams or other preparations for external use.

What science says
Some studies have shown that Asian ginseng may lower blood glucose. Other studies indicate possible beneficial effects on immune function.
To date, research results on Asian ginseng are not conclusive enough to prove the health benefits associated with herbs. Only a few large clinical trials on Asian ginseng have been conducted. Most of the studies were small or had flaws in design and reporting. Some claims for health benefits were based only on studies conducted on animals.
Side effects and cautions
When ingested by mouth, ginseng is usually well tolerated. Some sources suggest that its use is limited to 3 months because of fears of side effects.
The most common side effects are headache and sleep and gastrointestinal problems.
Asian ginseng can cause allergic reactions.
There have been reports of breast tenderness, menstrual irregularities and high blood pressure associated with Asian ginseng products, but components of these products have not been analyzed, so effects may be caused by other herbs or drugs in the product.
Asian ginseng may lower blood sugar levels, this effect can be seen more in people with diabetes. Thus, people with diabetes should use extra caution with Asian ginseng, especially if they use drugs to lower blood sugar or taking other herbs such as bitter melon and fenugreek, which are also believed to lower blood sugar levels.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you are doing to

manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.