The Benefits of Korean Ginseng

Korean Ginseng

Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) is a powerful adaptogen known for increasing energy, enhancing mental clarity, and supporting the immune system. It helps reduce fatigue and stress while promoting overall vitality. Ginseng is also valued for its ability to improve stamina, cognitive function, and support healthy aging, making it a favorite among natural health enthusiasts.

Key Highlights of Korean Ginseng

• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties
• Helps to combat fatigue & tiredness
• Beneficial for immune function
• An powerful anti-stressor
• Enhances mental clarity
• Promotes stamina and longevity

Biochemistry Timeline

Korean Ginseng supplementation typically boosts energy levels within two weeks. Full benefits, including enhanced mental clarity and stamina, may take up to four weeks. This adaptogen supports physical performance, cognitive function, and overall vitality, making it valuable for those seeking improved energy and focus in daily activities.

What is Korean Ginseng?

Korean ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, is a plant that has been embedded within traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years in East Asian countries, including China, Korea, and Japan.

The root of the plant contains ginsenosides and gintonin, the two major active components which give Korean Ginseng it’s therapeutic properties. Panax is derived from the word “panacea,” which means a cure for all diseases and a source of longevity as well as physical strength and resistance.

The rise in popularity of Korean ginseng in Western countries has seen an increase in scientific research studies which have been able to confirm some of the benefits that have made ginseng an important modern day supplement.

In its diverse role, Korean ginseng has been described as having powerful antioxidant and neuroprotective properties as well as helping with insulin resistance (blood sugar balance), hypertension (blood pressure) and regulating the immune system.

The Amazing Benefits of Korean Ginseng:

Reduction in Fatigue

The components within Korean Ginseng of Polysaccharides (like Glycogen, starch and cellulose) and oligopeptides (tiny amino-acids) have been linked with lower oxidative stress and higher energy production in cells, which could reduce tiredness and improve energy balance.

Due to its powerful antioxidant properties, research suggests that Korean Ginseng may have a role in reducing fatigue in those with chronic fatigue specifically. Within the study, those given Panax ginseng experienced less physical and mental fatigue, as well as reductions in oxidative stress, than those taking a placebo.

A review study which included over 155 papers suggested that ginseng supplements may not only help to reduce fatigue but also enhance physical activity.

Supports Immune System and Efficacy of Vaccines

The Immune system includes different types of cells fulfilling their own particular functions, and each type of immune cell is differentially influenced and may be simultaneously controlled by ginseng. Now that’s impressive!

Ginseng has been well known to enhance the immune system with the root extracts being used for maintaining immune homeostasis (balance) whilst enhancing resistance to illness.

Some research suggests that ginseng extract could increase the effect of vaccinations against diseases like the flu.

Cognitive Function

Cognitive processes include thinking, knowing, remembering, judging, and problem-solving. Ginseng has been shown to possess properties that can protect the brain from premature ageing, benefiting these cognitive processes.

Furthermore, a study found that taking 400 mg of Panax ginseng daily for eight days improved calmness and maths skills.

Anxiety and Depressive Disorders

Ginseng could have positive outcomes on brain functions that influence behaviour and mood. Results in one study showed improvement in some aspects of cognitive function and behaviour which in turn increased quality of life.

During long-term stress, hormones and inflammatory cytokines (molecules), can promote the development of anxiety and in severe cases depression. Studies have shown that ginseng has excellent anti-stress effects which can be beneficial when trying to manage long-term stress and anxiety and the prevention of depression.

Summary

Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) is a potent adaptogen known for boosting energy, enhancing mental clarity, and supporting immune health. Rich in antioxidants, it helps combat fatigue and stress while promoting overall vitality. Initial energy improvements can be felt within two weeks, with full benefits—such as enhanced stamina and cognitive function—taking up to four weeks. This ancient remedy has a rich history in traditional medicine and has been linked to various health benefits, including improved mood, cognitive function, and immune response. However, some may experience mild side effects, so consulting a healthcare provider is advisable before use.

FAQs

Are there any side effects? Korean Ginseng is generally safe for most people, but some may experience side effects like insomnia, headaches, or digestive issues. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Can I take Korean Ginseng with other supplements? Yes, but it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before combining it with other supplements, especially if you are taking medications.

Is Korean Ginseng safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding? It’s recommended to avoid Korean Ginseng during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient research on its safety in these situations. Always consult a healthcare provider.

How long can I take Korean Ginseng? It’s generally safe for short-term use (up to three months). For long-term use, consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Research:

1. Kang, S., & Min, H. (2012). Ginseng, the ‘Immunity Boost’: The Effects of Panax ginseng on Immune System. Journal of ginseng research, 36(4), 354–368.
2. Geng, J., Dong, J., Ni, H., Lee, M. S., Wu, T., Jiang, K., Wang, G., Zhou, A. L., & Malouf, R. (2010). Ginseng for cognition. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, (12), CD007769.
3. Choi K. T. (2008). Botanical characteristics, pharmacological effects and medicinal components of Korean Panax ginseng C A Meyer. Acta pharmacologica Sinica, 29(9), 1109–1118.
4. Boo, Y., Park, J., Kim, J., & Suh, S. (2007). Prospective Study for Korean Red Ginseng Extract as an Immune Modulator following a Curative Surgery in Patients with Advanced Colon Cancer. Journal of Ginseng Research, 31 (1).
5. Block, K. I., & Mead, M. N. (2003). Immune system effects of echinacea, ginseng, and astragalus: a review. Integrative cancer therapies, 2(3), 247–267.
6. Kim, H. G., Cho, J. H., Yoo, S. R., Lee, J. S., Han, J. M., Lee, N. H., Ahn, Y. C., & Son, C. G. (2013). Antifatigue effects of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PloS one, 8(4), e61271.
7. Bao, L., Cai, X., Wang, J., Zhang, Y., Sun, B., & Li, Y. (2016). Anti-Fatigue Effects of Small Molecule Oligopeptides Isolated from Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer in Mice. Nutrients, 8(12), 807.
8. Wang, J., Li, S., Fan, Y., Chen, Y., Liu, D., Cheng, H., Gao, X., & Zhou, Y. (2010). Anti-fatigue activity of the water-soluble polysaccharides isolated from Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 130(2), 421–423.
9. Wang, J., Sun, C., Zheng, Y., Pan, H., Zhou, Y., & Fan, Y. (2014). The effective mechanism of the polysaccharides from Panax ginseng on chronic fatigue syndrome. Archives of pharmacal research, 37(4), 530–538.
10. Bach, H. V., Kim, J., Myung, S. K., & Cho, Y. A. (2016). Efficacy of Ginseng Supplements on Fatigue and Physical Performance: a Meta-analysis. Journal of Korean medical science, 31(12), 1879–1886.
11. Smith, I., Williamson, E. M., Putnam, S., Farrimond, J., & Whalley, B. J. (2014). Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition. Nutrition reviews, 72(5), 319–333.
12. Reay, J. L., Scholey, A. B., & Kennedy, D. O. (2010). Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adults. Human psychopharmacology, 25(6), 462–471.
13. Dang, H., Chen, Y., Liu, X., Wang, Q., Wang, L., Jia, W., & Wang, Y. (2009). Antidepressant effects of ginseng total saponins in the forced swimming test and chronic mild stress models of depression. Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry, 33(8), 1417–1424.