The Power of American Ginseng: Benefits and Uses

As an expert in the field of herbal supplements, I have been asked countless times about the various ways to consume ginseng. While ginseng supplements are readily available, many people are curious about the raw root and its potential benefits. In this article, I will discuss the different ways to consume American ginseng and its potential health benefits.

Raw Root Consumption

The raw root of ginseng can be consumed in a variety of ways. It can be peeled and chewed, soaked in wine to make an extract, or boiled to make a tea.

Chewing on slices of ginseng throughout the day is not only a delicious way to maintain energy, but it also serves as a natural substitute for chewing gum or tobacco. Pre-cut ginseng is available for purchase, but for those who prefer, it can also be cut at home.

Supplement Forms

Ginseng supplements come in various forms such as tablets, capsules, extracts, or powders. These supplements usually contain ground root or an extract of one or more types of ginseng. It is typically recommended to take one or two capsules twice daily with meals.

However, the dosage may vary depending on the specific supplement. Studies have shown that ginseng extracts provide antioxidant protection which can help reduce free radicals in the cells of individuals with diabetes. Both American and Asian ginseng have been found to improve pancreatic cell function, increase insulin production, and enhance tissue absorption of blood sugar. Additionally, ginseng may also improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress in tissues and improving blood flow in penile muscles.

Choosing Quality Supplements

When purchasing ginseng supplements, it is important to choose products that have been tested by third parties and are transparent about their ingredients. Just like pre-ground coffee may lose some of its flavor compared to freshly ground coffee, powdered ginseng does not have the same taste as freshly ground ginseng root.

In a study, participants saw the most benefits from taking 2000 milligrams of American ginseng daily for eight weeks. A traditional and effective way to prepare whole dried roots is by using a pot for Chinese herbs, also known as a “pot for ginseng.” This method has been used for centuries and is still popular today.

Safety and Potential Interactions

Based on research, ginseng appears to be safe and should not cause any serious adverse effects. In fact, participants in a study were not experiencing a flu outbreak and were vaccinated against the flu after a month of treatments with ginseng. Many people are familiar with the multitude of health benefits of American ginseng, but may not be sure how to best use or take it. As a result, ginseng can help stimulate the nervous system and make you feel more alert and energetic. Another study found that Asian ginseng helped lower LDL cholesterol levels without affecting HDL levels.

While ginseng is generally considered safe, individuals taking certain medications should be aware of potential drug interactions. Additionally, research on the effects of ginseng on erectile dysfunction has yielded conflicting results and more high-quality studies are needed. However, ginseng did not show any significant effects on postprandial glucose (blood sugar levels after eating) or fasting insulin.