Ginseng, What Does It Do?

When my husband was young he and his cousins would set out for the woods on fall mornings (Aug 15 - Dec. 1) to try to find wild ginseng. Even back then, (25+ years ago)he says they would get about $120 a pound. This year the price is more than $350 a pound and I'm sure it will continue to go up because it's in such high demand.

You've probably noticed ginseng in many herbal products including energy drinks, Korean Ginseng Capsules, Korean Ginseng Tea and it's even in cosmetics. It's said to do everything from increase energy to decrease inflammation.

So, does ginseng do all it is touted to do? It's hard to verify all the benefits of ginseng using science. Many of the studies are contradictory, probably because there are many different types of ginseng.

The American ginseng is said to promote Yin energy in traditional Chinese medicine. One study showed it to reduce the cases of the influenza in the elderly when compared to a placebo. That's probably why Dr. Oz recommends it, along with Vitamin D, a probiotic and adequate rest to help ward off viral infections.

The Korean Red Ginseng, on the other hand, is said to promote Yang, improve circulation and blood supply, and stimulate the body. One study showed it to be an effective alternative for treating male erectile dysfunction and another reported that it reduces the relapse of gastric cancer.

Bodybuilders and athletes have turned to ginseng in an attempt to helps the body adapt to higher levels of stress, to increase endurance, and as a remedy for fatigue.

Ginseng has not been evaluated by the FDA so not all potential risks or advantages are known. Pregnant women are advised not to take it along with persons who have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease. It's wise to talk to your doctor before taking this, or any other herbal supplement.