Ginseng is an herb and root from the plant genus Panax. It’s commonly used in treatment practices because of its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects, especially in regions of Asia and North America.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of ginseng with the following:
- Types of Ginseng
- How is Ginseng Taken?
- Health Benefits of Ginseng
- What Health Conditions Can Ginseng Help With?
- Best Ginseng Supplement For Immune Health
Types of Ginseng
There are two main types of ginseng: American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng). Both of these ginseng types offer unique health benefits and have been used in traditional medicine practice for centuries.
How is Ginseng Taken?
Ginseng supplements come in the form of tablets, capsules, extracts, and powders. Typically, you’ll take one or two daily with food to get the most out of its health benefits. Depending on the person and the type of ginseng, it may be best to take the supplements in the morning due to the stimulating effects. Additionally, some sources recommend a break from this routine every 2 to 3 weeks to prevent long-term usage side effects, such as insomnia or digestive issues.
Health Benefits of Ginseng
Ginseng is taken for its many health benefits on the immune system and other functions of the body. People use ginseng supplements primarily because of immunity, anti-inflammatory properties, blood sugar regulation, and brain support.
Boosts the Immune System
Studies have shown ginseng’s potent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties to be beneficial in boosting the immune system. Ginseng roots, stems, leaves, and extracts are believed to play a role in maintaining homeostasis and increasing the body’s resistance to illness.
Reduces Inflammation
Ginseng is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown it to be effective against free radicals that cause oxidative stress and inflammation markers that can increase chronic diseases.
Regulates Blood Sugar
Active ingredients in ginseng, known as ginsenoside, are believed to help stabilize insulin and glucagon, which helps maintain blood sugar. Ginseng supplementation has been proven to improve fasting blood sugar levels and lower high blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients.
Improves Cognitive Function
Ginseng is known to increase brain functions such as working memory and mental arithmetics. Similarly, it may improve mental fatigue and aid in reducing learning deficits due to brain damage or aging.
What Health Conditions Can Ginseng Help With?
Ginseng is a powerful supplement that may benefit several types of neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. It has also been used during treatments for cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases to improve immune function in patients.
Other health problems that ginseng may help with include:
- Insomnia
- Menstrual problems
- High cholesterol
- Low energy
- Headaches
- Fever
- Indigestion
- Infertility
Always consult your doctor before adding ginseng supplements to your daily nutritional intake to ensure you’re a good candidate and taking the proper dosage.
Best Ginseng Supplement For Immune Health
Vital Nutrient’s American Ginseng Extract is A Nice Apothecary’s number one ginseng supplement recommendation for cold and flu support. We recommend taking it for two months at two capsules once daily. This should be used for a minimum of 8-16 weeks in healthy adults as a preventative measure against cold and flu.
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