Ginseng, American Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses
Scientific Name: Panax quinquefolius
Properties: Anti-cancer, Antioxidant, Immune system booster, Anti-viral, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-stress, Tonic, Superfood, Human growth hormone stimulant
What is Ginseng, American?
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a plant that’s native to North America. It is one of three main varieties of ginseng plant. The other two types of ginseng are Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) and Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng).1 American ginseng is tan or light brown in color with a gnarled root formation. It’s recognizable by its strange shape with long or stringy shoots coming off the main part of the root.1 2 Native Americans have traditionally used American ginseng for hundred of years in a number of medicinal capacities.1 3 Today, ginseng is extremely popular. It’s believed that over 6 million Americans use ginseng regularly for its medicinal benefits.2
American Ginseng Health Uses and Health Benefits
The active compounds in American ginseng are called ginsenosides. These are what provide so many important American ginseng benefits for health. Asian ginseng also contains ginsenosides but Siberian ginseng does not. Instead it contains other compounds called eleutherosides that provide different health benefits.1 2 Ginseng is commonly referred to as an adaptogen herb. This means that it helps the body respond in healthier ways to differing levels of stress.3 Some of the important American ginseng benefits include:1 2 3
- Boosts immune system function
- Improves energy levels and mental focus
- Increases cognitive function
- Reduces risk of cancer
- Regulates mood and lowers stress
- Lowers inflammation
- Promotes weight loss
- Treats cold and flu
American ginseng uses for treating conditions and preventing disease include:
- Liver Cancer - Research has shown that American ginseng can help inhibit tumor growth in patients suffering from liver cancer.
- Alzheimer’s Disease - American ginseng uses include boosting cognitive function, which can help slow Alzheimer’s disease progress.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - American ginseng benefits include being able to regulate mood and improve mental focus, which are symptoms of ADHD.
- Colorectal Cancer - Ginseng may help to inhibit tumor growth in people with colorectal cancer.
- Common Cold - GInseng helps to boost the immune system, which can help people to better fight off the common cold.
American Ginseng Side Effects and Precautions
American ginseng side effects are usually not serious. Taking it long-term or in high doses may cause American ginseng side effects like headaches, dizziness and stomachaches.2