Ginseng

Ginseng is available on the market in the following forms:

• Ginseng and Royal Jelly, 10 vials, Yongkang International China;
• Ginseng + Royal Jelly, 30 capsules, Yongkang International China;
• Panax Ginseng Extract, 30 capsules, Yongkang International China;
• Maca and Ginseng Powder, 200 g, Phyto Biocare;
• Siberian Ginseng, organic powder, 200 g, Rawboost Smart Food;
• Korean Ginseng 500 mg, 100 capsules, Bronson Laboratories;
• Ginseng hair loss treatment, 12 ampoules, Bes Beauty & Science;
• Ginseng Water Essence, 150 ml, Beauty of Joseon;
• Asian Ginseng 560 mg Nature's Way, 50 capsules, Secom;
• Premium Korean Ginseng 1000 mg, 30 tablets, Cosmopharm;
• Red Ginseng, 30 capsules, Pro Natura; etc.

Ginseng has analgesic, anticonvulsant, sedative and antipsychotic properties. This product has been used over time in alternative treatments for conditions such as epilepsy, insomnia, anxiety and schizophrenia.

Ginseng has also been studied for its effects on carbohydrate metabolism, being particularly beneficial for people with type II diabetes. Ginseng administration has led to a 20% decrease in blood glucose concentration in this group of people, as proven by a hyperglycaemic challenge test. For this reason, ginseng is used as an adjunct in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, alongside other therapies and medical treatments.

In addition, ginseng prevents the effects of prolonged stress and helps combat fatigue and depression, especially in older people. This product is also useful in treating anxiety, memory disorders, neuroses and states of malnutrition or convalescence. By improving overall health, ginseng helps combat states of debility and increases energy and concentration.

To achieve the best results when taking ginseng, it is important to follow the recommended dosage. This is usually 2 tablets per day, in the morning and at lunchtime, for several weeks, but should not exceed 3 months. After a break of one month, the treatment can be repeated.

Ginseng tablets contain 0.5–2 g of root, which is equivalent to 100–400 mg of ginseng extract. This is actually the average recommended daily dose. When taking ginseng, you should take into account the concentration, dose and form of presentation. These may vary depending on the product you are using, which is why it is necessary to consult the package leaflet inside the product.

When taken in the recommended doses, ginseng has no contraindications and no toxic effects on the body.

However, some people may experience side effects, especially if ginseng is used in excessive amounts or taken for too long. For example, in some people, ginseng can act as a stimulant, which can lead to headaches, indigestion or dizziness. In women, regular use of ginseng may lead to changes in menstruation.

It is important to consult your doctor before starting any treatment with ginseng and to strictly follow the doses and instructions for use to avoid any unwanted side effects. Ginseng may interact with other medications or dietary supplements, so caution is advised when taking it with other products. Avoid taking ginseng if you have pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes without first consulting your doctor.

In general, it is recommended to avoid taking Ginseng during pregnancy and breastfeeding without medical advice.

Avoid taking Ginseng with other medications or dietary supplements, as unwanted interactions may occur. People taking medication to regulate blood pressure should avoid taking Ginseng without consulting their doctor, as it may cause an increase in blood pressure. It is also recommended to avoid consuming caffeine or other stimulants while taking Ginseng.

Ginseng may have adverse interactions with certain medications such as oestrogens, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, aspirin, corticosteroids, digoxin, heparin and warfarin.

Ginseng contains trace elements such as iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus and calcium. Ginseng root also contains polysaccharides that have beneficial effects on the immune system. Ginsenosides are responsible for the plant's tonic and adaptogenic effect, its ability to increase the body's resistance to physical and mental stress and improve physical and mental performance. Although saponins are considered the main active substances in ginseng, research has shown that the beneficial effects of this plant are determined by a complex mixture of active compounds that act synergistically. Ginseng can be found in various forms, including tea, capsules or liquid extract, depending on consumer preferences and main needs.

As with any dietary supplement or medicinal plant, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and administration of Indian ginseng to avoid any side effects and to obtain optimal health benefits. After a period of 3 months of administration, a 30-day break is recommended to avoid habituation and allow the body to rebalance itself.

It is important to note that Ashwagandha is not recommended for young children or pregnant women, as there is little data on the safety and efficacy of this plant in these cases. For people clinically diagnosed with depression or anxiety, it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking Ashwagandha, as a proper medical evaluation and appropriate treatment for these conditions may be necessary.