Ginseng is an ingredient in many dietary supplements that improves well-being and increases energy levels. This ingredient has been used in Far Eastern natural medicine for thousands of years. Its properties have been explored in particular by traditional Chinese medicine. Today, the positive effects of ginseng on health can be appreciated by people all over the world, including Poland. What exactly is this plant famous for and why is it worth considering consuming it?
Ginseng – what is it?
Ginseng, also known as the all-medicine, ginseng or root of life, is a perennial from the Araliaceae family. The plant is difficult to grow due to its climatic requirements. It is also characterized by a long growth period. However, various varieties of ginseng are grown around the world, including Siberian, Korean, Indian and American. The species considered to be of the highest quality is Chinese ginseng. Its root (because it is this part of the plant that is used in natural medicine) contains over 200 active substances. These include numerous vitamins (B1, B2, C and E), minerals, phytosterols, organic acids, saponin glycosides, peptides, panaxans, essential oils and panaxinols.
Ginseng as an adaptogen
Ginseng is one of the best-studied adaptogens. Due to its strong antioxidant properties, it supports the body’s return to homeostasis, or natural balance. It has a protective effect, accelerates regeneration processes and neutralizes the effects of so-called stress stimuli. In this way, it increases the body’s resistance to oxidative stress and increases the adaptive capacity to function in difficult conditions, such as stress. Importantly, ginseng supports natural, proper physiological mechanisms. Do you want to learn more about this topic? Check out the article Adaptogens – what are they and what are their effects and applications.
Ginseng root properties
In the case of a plant such as ginseng, the properties that are particularly valued are the support of natural vitality, which translates into more efficient physical and cognitive functioning. For this reason, many people take ginseng products to have more energy to work and perform daily duties. This effect of ginseng results from the high content of ginsenosides – macromolecules classified as saponins. They have the ability to attach oxygen to hemoglobin, the so-called oxygenation. In this way, they have a positive effect on the oxygenation of the tissues of the entire body and the shape of red blood cells. This has a positive effect on energy levels, blood pressure, mental well-being and heart rhythm.
Ginsenosides in ginseng – what can they help with?
Supporting the process of binding oxygen to hemoglobin counteracts discomfort and ailments such as:
- excessive paleness of the skin, lips and eyelids,
- shortness of breath during physical activity.
It should be noted that the symptoms listed above may result from causes that are worth consulting a doctor. Therefore, if you experience such ailments, first have preventive tests with a specialist.
Ginseng – effects
In addition to oxygenating hemoglobin, ginseng root also has a number of other properties. The nutrients contained in the plant have a positive effect on the functioning of, among others:
- The nervous system – they improve well-being, memory and concentration, which is particularly important for people performing mental work. They calm down and increase resistance to stress.
- Metabolism – they regulate the level of lipids and glucose in the blood. They facilitate the reduction of excess fat tissue, thanks to which they allow for greater progress in losing weight.
- The circulatory system – they increase efficiency during physical exercise, have an energizing effect.
- Detoxification of the body – they support physiological balance and the proper functioning of internal organs, such as the liver.
- The immune system – saponins contained in ginseng increase the amount of immune proteins in the body. This has an impact on a more effective immune response.
- The skeletal system – vitamins and minerals contribute to the proper density of bone tissue.
- Skin and hair – nutrients strengthen the skin’s resistance to external factors, promoting the growth of healthy and strong hair.
Ginseng, what does it help with?
Dietary supplements with ginseng can be used by people who experience particularly:
- chronic fatigue,
- worse mental well-being,
- low physical performance,
- poor concentration,
- memory problems,
- low libido.
First of all, it is worth consulting the above-mentioned symptoms with a specialist who will conduct appropriate diagnostics.
Ginseng – libido-stimulating effect
Ginseng is known for its properties that increase libido levels, which is why it has a positive effect on the sexual drive. This applies in particular to men, in whom ginseng supplements can have a positive effect on potency. Thanks to ginseng, men can also feel more motivated to act in other areas of life. You can find more information on this topic in the article Supplementation for men – how to strengthen the body?
Ginseng dosage
Ginseng dietary supplements should be taken according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Depending on the properties of the product and its ingredients, ginseng root is usually found in a dose of 0.5-2 mg per day. The appropriate dosage of ginseng is very important, because its excessive consumption can lead to certain ailments and health problems. For the same reason, ginseng cannot be used for too long. After 3 months of supplementation, a break of at least a month should be taken.
Ginseng dietary supplements
Did you already know that you can supplement ginseng? There are many products with this plant to choose from. These are both single-ingredient dietary supplements and multivitamins. They are available in various forms – not only tablets and capsules, but also easier to consume effervescent lozenges. Ginseng in dietary supplement recipes is often combined with vitamins with similar properties, such as vitamin C, vitamin E or vitamins from the B group: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, biotin, folic acid and vitamin B12. Ask a specialist about the recommended ginseng product that is most useful in your case. Try to reach for dietary supplements with natural ingredients and no added sugar. Among them, there are also those with an attractive taste, for example with fruit juice.