Physiological Effects Of Ginseng |
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For millennia, ginseng has been used as a tonic to counteract stress and improve health. Since its use undoubtedly predates the first Asian medical writings, a safe bet would place ginseng as having been in active use for over twenty-five hundred years. While its actual effects are still elusive to modern medical science, its extensive use over two millennia suggests it’s doing something useful.
Chinese medicine classifies ginseng as an "adaptogen." Since this doesn't comply with any standard classification in Western medicine, it’s not difficult to be somewhat confused. The Chinese herbalist-physician would say that ginseng comes into its own when a person is stressed to his limits. So, its use would seem to be appropriate in our complex, competitive, and stressful society.
This indication makes sense in view of some clinical studies of ginseng and its many components. It is important to recognize, however, that ginseng provides many active compounds appropriately called genesides. Either ginseng itself or specific genesides have been shown to elicit the following physiological effects:
The above tabulation suggests that an adaptogen is both a stimulant (improves alertness) under some conditions and a relaxant (lowers blood pressure) under other conditions. Perhaps adaptogen is an appropriate description, and over two thousand years of use is correct.
In China, Korea, and Japan, ginseng is used in tea. which characterizes its most effective use everywhere. However, in the United States, people always seek more convenient delivery and want things to work quickly. Hence, it can be found in pills, capsules, and even candies. There is absolutely no proof that these forms work or do not work, so experience must be your personal guide. When using any herb that has a history as rich as ginsengs, it is best to follow traditional use. Ginseng tea is quite pleasant and simply taking your time to drink it will have a calming effect. Take one teaspoon (1.75 grams) of dried ginseng root in a cup of boiling water twice daily Most experts recommend drinking ginseng tea for at least three weeks; others suggest up to three months.
Ginseng is now sold in doses of from 100 milligrams to 500 milligrams as tablets, capsules, or powder. It is important to follow the directions that come with these preparations. One consistent point in the folk wisdom surrounding ginseng is that it must be used regularly for three weeks to three months to be fully effective. Therefore, it makes sense to take a smaller dose regularly than a large dose just once or twice.
Although ginseng's history indicates it is safe for most human use, it makes sense to exercise sensible caution. Common sense dictates that pregnant women should consult their doctors before using any herb or medication. even though ginseng is used by many pregnant women in Asia.
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