The ginseng plant comes from China. It has both strengthening and regulating qualities depending on the needs of the body.
Many active substances have been identified in the root. These include ginsengoids, panaxans, terpens, and polyacetylenes. These substances give Panax ginseng a broad spectrum of use possibilities, where many have been known and appreciated for thousands of years in the Far East.
Ginseng stimulates the male sex glands and increases the production of adrenaline. This strengthens lung function and the immune system, stimulates the appetite, and normalises blood pressure.
Ginseng is known for strengthening skin and muscles, improve appetite and digestion, and improving sex life. It should be tried if one is suffering from impotence, premature ejaculation, and for conditions characterised by decreased sperm count.
Ginseng also affects liver metabolism and the entry of glycogen into the muscles. Ginseng works beneficially on the heart and decreases blood sugar.
Ginseng is an adaptogen, which causes the cells of the body to create the exact amount of energy that the body needs in a given situation. Because of this the body avoids being overly tired and burned out, meaning that ginseng works against stress. It is probable that ginseng stimulates some centres in the middle of the brain. Ginseng also helps the body to overcome cold temperatures.
In the Far East, ginseng is regarded to be a kind of fountain of youth. Ginseng is beneficial to recuperation and combats weakness and aging by improving wound healing, resistance to illness, and alertness.
Ginseng can also be relaxing when the body needs a rest.
On top of the above, ginseng has often shown itself to be useful in the treatment of alcoholism and other forms of addiction, cardiac disease, asthma, cancer, depression, and infection.
Dosage
- Dried herb: 2-6 g daily
- Standardised extract: 1-2 ml gaily
Should not use ginseng
- Pregnant and nursing women
- Children
- Individuals with high blood pressure
Please note
Pre menopausal women should use ginseng products with care because the root can, in its undiluted form, cause hormonal imbalances. Women should instead use Gelee Royale honey, Schisandra or Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus).
Do not take ginseng in periods longer than 3 months. Hold a month’s break in between each three month period.
