Ginseng: The complete guide

Benefits of ginseng

 

Anti-inflammatory

Rich in vitamins (B, C and E) but also in iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium (and so on), ginseng guarantees a substantial supply of nutrients and a great source of energy.

Ginseng is an anti-inflammatory that strengthens the immune system. It acts against digestive disorders and lung infections. It is also used in the treatment of diabetes and is said to have a positive action against certain cancers.

 

Energizing and soothing

Ginseng is recognized in the Asian tradition for balancing and toning vital energy, thanks to its benefits on the body and on the mind. It heals the body as a whole and contributes to health and well-being.

Good for morale, ginseng reduces stress, anxiety and fatigue. Ginseng is also known for its relaxing and antidepressant effects.

Its toning properties stimulate the nervous system and improve intellectual faculties, in particular memory and concentration. It can also be combined with guarana to amplify these abilities. Ginseng also improves physical abilities, it increases endurance and muscle recovery (boost guaranteed!). It is also often associated with spirulina when it is desired to obtain such results. Ginseng oil is also used to tone the muscles.

 

 

Ginseng: Aphrodisiac

Ginseng is recognized for its aphrodisiac properties. It is recommended in case of decreased libido or sexual impotence. It is also used against infertility. For this purpose, red ginseng is recommended.

Differences between red ginseng and white ginseng

 

There are two names that correspond to a color difference that is explained by the conservation technique. The Asian ginseng, mainly used, is said to be “white” when the root is cleaned and then dried naturally. When the root undergoes a steam treatment before drying, the ginseng is said to be “red”.

The two species also differ in their concentration of saponins, the active ingredient in ginseng. This difference is due to the preservation process. During drying at a higher temperature, red ginseng loses some of these active agents.

 

Red ginseng

Red ginseng acts as a stimulant. During the steam treatment, it loses some of its soothing properties, contained in the Rb-type saponins.

Its concentration of Rg saponins being more important, its energizing properties are therefore superior. The drying process of red ginseng offers a longer shelf life.

 

White ginseng

Dried naturally, white ginseng retains all of its properties. It is therefore more balanced, between saponins Rg and Rb). It is more recognized for its soothing virtues.

Cost: White ginseng is generally less expensive than red ginseng.

 

The different species

The most widespread species are Asian ginseng (Panax Ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium). There are also other types such as Korean ginseng.

However, stay vigilant, other products meet the name of ginseng without containing ginsenocides. This is the case of “Siberian ginseng” whose active ingredients are eleutherocides. So it’s not about ginseng.

 

Ginseng : Dosage

 

The daily consumption should not exceed 2g / day. To take advantage of its benefits, the recommended dose is about 800mg per day.

Ginseng is consumed in several forms: powder, capsules, ampoules or infusions. Ginseng also exists in the form of essential oil.

It is recommended to choose your ginseng well, so take care of the quality of production. Prefer organic ginseng, without pesticides, in order to benefit from all the benefits of this fabulous plant.

 

Ginseng: Side effects?

 

It is advisable to consume ginseng alone in order to avoid negative synergies. The association with caffeine or theine is to be avoided.

The consumption of ginseng is not recommended for pregnant women and people with heart problems or high blood pressure, but also insomnia or gynecomastia.

Ginseng does not pose a risk. However, the cures must not exceed a period of 3 months. Beyond that, it is necessary to interrupt the treatment for a few days.

Of course, it is important to respect the doses (we never repeat it enough!). An overconsumption of ginseng can cause inconvenience.

As for the side effects, they are small and infrequent. However, ginseng can cause insomnia or diarrhea.