Ginseng Root

The scientific name of ginseng is Panax Ginseng. Panax has its origin from the Greek word 'panakos', referring to panacea and Ginseng has its origin from the Chinese word 'jen-shen', which means 'in the image of man'. The herb ginseng has been in use in China for over 5000 years as the Chinese people believed that it offers good health and that it increases the longevity of the user. The roots of the ginseng plant, which are called ginseng roots are found to be shaped like humans and so the name includes the word jen-shen. The root is the most commonly used part of the plant. Old roots, especially hundred years old roots are supposed to be more beneficial. Siberian ginseng is not a variety of Chinese ginseng, but it also has almost the same properties. American ginseng has been in use in America, by native Americans, as a palliative for all sort of ailments, since time immemorial.

Whole roots, sliced roots, roots in powder form, in tea bags, etc. are available all over the world. You can use fresh or dried roots. Ginseng plant leaves which are not considered as important as the root, are rarely used. Nowadays, ginseng root extract is easily available in the market and is very popular everywhere. It is added in various proportions while making a number of herbal medicines. In 'ayurveda', ginseng is known as 'ashwagandha'. Ginseng tea can be considered as a 'cure all' medicine, as it offers several health benefits.

Benefits of Ginseng

• The root is used to treat all sorts of disorders like ulcers, stress, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, headache, indigestion, diarrhea, lung problems, arthritis, asthma, Crohn's disease, tumors, fatigue, diabetes, depression, gum and teeth diseases etc.
• It works great for gastric problems. It works as an emollient and as a stimulant and makes the digestive system to work smoothly and efficiently.
• The root works as an aphrodisiac and so is used to treat various problems related to sex and fertility. It can regulate and enhance the production of the reproductive hormones.
• Roots of the Ginseng plant can be used to ease labor pains, to regulate menstruation, to improve stamina, energy and appetite.
• The roots improve the resistance of the body to various stress factors like fatigue, nervousness, and trauma.
• They can boost the immune system in such a way that the body can fight infections, especially when it is under stress.
• Ginseng can improve learning abilities by improving memory.
• The root carries medicinal properties which can make the heart and the liver function smoothly and can stabilize blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
• The root when consumed regularly, reduces the risk of cancer.
• This herb also helps the respiratory system to work efficiently.
• The root helps improve blood circulation.
• The root rejuvenates, fortifies, and invigorates the whole body and so it is used as an anti aging ingredient.

Adulterated products along with being ineffective, can cause side effects too. Prolonged usage of ginseng or high doses of ginseng, interaction with other drugs and allergic reactions or reactions in people with some prevailing medical conditions can lead to side effects. There are innumerable benefits of ginseng but it should be consumed in proper proportions.

Side Effects of Ginseng

Nervousness, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, insomnia, loss of concentration, heaviness in the chest, skin rashes, edema, digestive disorders, asthma, etc. are some of the most common side effects of these medicinal roots. The side effects may vary according to the overall health of the person. Some people may have to face low blood sugar levels while some may have to face hypertension. Overuse of all types of ginseng can cause restlessness, headaches, diarrhea, bleeding from the nose, breast pain and vaginal bleeding. Some rare side effects like rapid heartbeats and high blood pressure along with muscle cramps are seen as a side effect of Siberian ginseng.

Scientists do agree that further studies, regarding what are the exact benefits and side effects of ginseng root, are required for conclusive evidences. This is because most of the claims about the benefits of ginseng are based on studies made on rodents and so may not hold true for humans. The regular consumers of ginseng, nevertheless, claim that they have a sense of an improvement in their general feeling of health and wellness.