Ginseng
Different varieties of ginseng root have been used as treatments in Asia and North America for centuries. Ginseng is one of the most popular herbal medicines in the world. There are no natural food sources of ginseng, but it is occassionally added to energy drinks and foods.
Primary Uses of Ginseng?
Ginseng has traditionally been used for a number of medical conditions.
There are two main types of ginseng: Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). Studies have found that the different types have different benefits.
Although many other herbs are called ginseng - like eleuthero, or Siberian ginseng - they do not contain the active ingredient of ginsenosides.
Some studies have found that ginseng may boost the immune system. There is some evidence that one particular type of American ginseng extract might decrease the number and severity of colds in adults.
Several studies in people have also shown that ginseng may lower blood sugar levels, and there is some early evidence that ginseng might improve concentration and learning.
Ginseng has also been studied as a way to improve mood and boost endurance as well as treat cancer, heart disease, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C, high blood pressure, menopausal symptoms, and other conditions. While some of these uses are promising, the evidence isn’t conclusive.