American Ginseng
American ginseng is a herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. More recently, it has become popular in Western cultures as an ingredient in various supplements and health products. On our online store, we sell high-quality American ginseng capsules and powders. Read on to learn all about American ginseng and how our products can benefit your health.
What Is American Ginseng?
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a plant native to North America, primarily the eastern and midwestern regions of the United States as well as parts of Canada. It belongs to the ivy family (Araliaceae) and thrives in the cool, shaded forests of Appalachia. American ginseng has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years by Native Americans prior to its modern applications.
The most valuable part of the American ginseng plant is the root. Growers must cultivate American ginseng for a minimum of 3 to 4 years before the roots are ready to be harvested. This slow-growing process concentrates the bioactive compounds and results in a higher quality, more potent root.
Key Health Benefits
American ginseng has been shown to provide a variety of health benefits:
- Supports immune system function - Contains ginsenosides and polysaccharides that boost immunity and fight infections. Also has antioxidant properties that combat free radicals.
- Reduces inflammation - Demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects that may help conditions like arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, asthma, and more.
- Improves cognitive function - Components in American ginseng promote memory, concentration, and calmness. Also shows potential against Alzheimer's disease.
- Supports male sexual health - Traditionally used to enhance male sexual performance and treat erectile dysfunction. Appears to increase nitric oxide production which improves blood flow.
- Balances blood sugar - Compounds in ginseng regulate insulin production and sensitivity. Helps control blood glucose levels especially for people with diabetes.
- Lowers stress levels & promotes relaxation - Supports the nervous system during times of stress. Also induces feelings of tranquility and improves sleep issues stemming from anxiety or restlessness.
- May aid in cancer prevention - Early research shows anti-cancer activity against certain cell lines. More research still needed in this area.
American ginseng is an adaptogenic herb that might help strengthen immunity, reduce inflammation, sharpen mental clarity, treat male sexual dysfunction, normalise blood sugar, alleviate stress, and potentially prevent cancer formation
Is American Ginseng Safe?
For most healthy adults, American ginseng is very safe when used short-term (up to 3 months) at recommended dosages. Side effects are rare but can include upset stomach, diarrhoea, headache, trouble sleeping (insomnia), increased heart rate/blood pressure, breast tenderness, vaginal bleeding in females, and other effects.
American ginseng should be avoided by pregnant or nursing women since it can stimulate uterine contractions and influence hormones. Children and adolescents should not use American ginseng without medical approval either.
Certain people should exercise caution before using American ginseng:
- Those with bleeding disorders, diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune diseases, schizophrenia, hormone-sensitive cancers, trouble sleeping insomnia), and organ transplant recipients.
- People taking certain medications like blood thinners, antidepressants, morphine, stimulants, blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, immunosuppressant drugs, etc. Herb-drug interactions are possible.
- Anyone scheduled for surgery within 2 weeks time. American ginseng can increase bleeding during and after procedures.
Of course, always talk to your doctor before taking American ginseng if you have any underlying health conditions or take any medications to prevent complications.