| Home > Site Map > Recommendations > K > Korean Ginseng |
| Ginseng is a broad term describing many species of plants, most of which are closely related. This is the ginseng used as a tonic in Asian countries for centuries. It also has many ginsenosides as its most active components. Panax ginseng root preparations are "Approved" by the German Commission E as a tonic in times of fatigue and declining work capacity and concentration. For largely economic purposes, the majority of ginseng in the American marketplace is derived from the lowest grade root, diluted with excipients, blended with adulterants, or totally devoid of active constituents (ginsenosides). Independent research and published studies have clearly documented that there is a tremendous variation in the ginsenoside content of commercial preparations. This has led to several problems, ranging from toxicity reactions to lack of medicinal effect. The widespread disregard for quality control in the health food industry has done much to tarnish the reputation of ginseng as well as other important botanicals. Korean or Chinese Ginseng may prove especially effective in restoration of normal adrenal function and prevention of adrenal atrophy associated with corticosteroid administration. Take three times a day for three months continuously, then one month on two months off. Choose products specifically containing the root of Panax ginseng. The typical dose (taken one to three times daily) for general tonic effects should contain a saponin content of at least 25mg of ginsenoside Rgl. Panax ginseng can cause insomnia, hypertension and muscle tightness if taken in excess. A number of side-effects are reported, including hypertension, euphoria, nervousness, insomnia, skin eruptions, and morning diarrhea, almost always using material of unknown quality. Counter-Indicators It must be noted that Panax ginseng has been proven to have a mild estrogen-promoting activity in some women and would thus would be contraindicated where estrogen is already excessive, as may be the case with PMS or breast cancer. |
| Cold Hands and Feet Poor Memory Stress Vaginal Dryness |