25 July 2015
What Is Ginseng?Ginseng is a perennial herb belonging to the Panax species of plants whose fleshy roots are shaped almost like a human and are used as herbal supplements.There are 11 species of Panax and ginseng broadly refers to any one of them.
Ginseng grows in cooler climates and has been cultivated in China, Korea, Japan, Russia and North America. It contains ginsenosides that are its main active compounds. The roots of Panax mature in about 4-6 years and as the root grows older the concentration of ginsenosides increases and the more potent it becomes. Types Of GinsengThe 2 major species of ginseng grown are :
According to Chinese medicine American ginseng is high in Yin energy and is therefore calming and cooling while the Asian ginseng is high in Yang and thus warms the body, boosts metabolism and keeps one alert. Health Benefits Of GinsengGinseng has been used in China for thousands of years not only for longevity but also as a herbal remedy to treat a number of health conditions associated with the respiratory, nervous systems and metabolic disorders.
Ginseng is referred to as an adaptogen, it reduces stress, increases energy levels, improves mental and physical health. It is believed to lower weight and ginseng tea has been found to be an appetite suppressant. Ginseng is also supposed to lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetic sufferers. In men with disrupted sexual functions, ginseng supposedly helps with normalizing them since it works as an aphrodisiac. Ginseng boosts immunity, lowers incidence of respiratory infections and as some studies suggest also lowers cancer risk. |
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Ginseng TeaGinseng tea is very easy to make.
Soak 3 grams of fresh root or 1.5 grams of dried root powder in 150 ml of boiling water for about 5 to 10 minutes. Then strain and drink. This tea can be had up to 3 times a day for 3 weeks. The videos alongside also detail out how ginseng tea can be made. Ginseng Consumption DosageGinseng is available as tablets, capsules, powder, extract, tea, cream, candy etc. Different doses have been suggested and used.
Some suggest that any ginseng supplement ought to have a minimum of 7% of ginsensosides. Others recommend using 1-2 grams of dry root per day for adults or 100-200 mg of ginseng extract (4% ginsenosides) orally upto 2 times daily for a period of up to 3 months, then a break of 1-2 weeks before restarting it. Some Side Effects Of GinsengThough generally considered safe ginseng consumption may lead to certain side effects like
Adverse Reactions Of Ginseng With DrugsGinseng consumption causes some adverse reactions with certain drugs like :
Some PrecautionsAvoid taking tea and coffee with ginseng as the caffeine in tea/coffee boosts the nervous system and ginseng too does the same. This may lead to increased heart rate and high blood pressure problems.
Also, avoid ginseng with insulin as it may lead to very low blood sugar levels. Always consult your doctor if you are on any medication before taking ginseng. References
DisclaimerThe information provided in this hub is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Please consult your physician, or health care provider before taking any home remedies, supplements or starting a new health regime or practice. This article is for health information purposes only. |
How To Make Ginseng Tea - Part 1How To Make Ginseng Tea - Part 2 |