ginseng

Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a plant native to Korea, northeastern China, and far-eastern Siberia, with the root being the part most commonly used for health purposes. Its main active compounds are called ginsenosides (also known as panaxosides), and the same plant is sold as "red" or "white" ginseng depending on how it is prepared. It has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine as a calming agent and as a so-called adaptogen, meaning an herb thought to help the body manage physical and mental stress.

The evidence is mixed and generally limited. According to NCCIH, some research suggests Asian ginseng may improve cognitive function (such as abstract thinking, attention, and reaction time) in middle-aged but not young adults, and a 2023 review found it alone may have a small beneficial effect on general fatigue not tied to a specific disease. A very small amount of preliminary research suggests it may help reduce the risk of developing the flu, but not the severity or duration of symptoms. Some research indicates that taking oral Asian ginseng seems to improve sexual function in people with erectile dysfunction. For blood sugar control in people with diabetes, NCCIH describes the research as overall inconclusive and conflicting; the majority of research shows it does not improve athletic performance; and there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it helps with conditions such as aging, asthma, or anxiety.

US government sources do not establish a standard or recommended dose for Asian ginseng. Because the ginsenoside content and strength of products can vary widely between brands, follow the product label and do not assume that more is better. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Asian ginseng, especially if you take any medication, have a health condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

According to NCCIH, short-term oral use (by mouth, up to about 6 months) in recommended amounts appears to be safe for most people, though questions have been raised about long-term safety. Some experts recommend against its use for infants, children, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding; some studies suggest it may be unsafe when taken orally during pregnancy, and little is known about its safety while breastfeeding. It may lower blood sugar, and it may worsen autoimmune disorders or interfere with blood clotting, so people with those conditions or taking related medicines should be cautious and consult a health care provider. There isn't enough reliable information to know whether Asian ginseng applied to the skin is safe, and it might cause side effects such as irritation and burning.

NCCIH reports that insomnia (trouble sleeping) is the most common side effect of Asian ginseng. Uncommon side effects that have been reported include severe rash, liver damage, and severe allergic reactions. It may also affect blood sugar levels and blood clotting.

NCCIH states that Asian ginseng might interact with certain medications. It does not name specific drugs on its consumer page, but cautions that some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways. Because ginseng may also lower blood sugar and affect blood clotting, extra caution is warranted alongside diabetes and anticoagulant medicines. If you take any medication, talk with your health care provider before using Asian ginseng or other herbal products.