Ginseng
(Panax Ginseng and Eleutherococcus Senticosus)
What is it?
There are several types of ginseng, the best known varieties being Korean or Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng) and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus). Korean ginseng is considered to be more stimulating than Siberian ginseng.
Both types of ginseng have a long history of use in Chinese medicine as tonics. They enhance the body's ability to cope with stress, improve energy metabolism, lower blood sugar, boost immunity, enhance liver function, and regulate cell growth.
What it does in the body
The anti-fatigue and anti-stress properties of both types of ginseng are used to increase physical and mental performance in people who are debilitated and suffering from stress. Korean ginseng is also used to treat diabetes, to lower cholesterol, to enhance reproductive system function, to treat menopausal symptoms, to improve immunity and to prevent cancer. Siberian ginseng is often used to treat chronic fatigue syndrome, to combat the side effects of cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and to treat rheumatic pain in the elderly.
Cautions
Ginseng should be avoided by people who have acute infections, high blood pressure or anxiety. Some people experience side effects with ginseng. These include high blood pressure, nervousness, insomnia, skin problems and diarrhoea.