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
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
American ginseng uses for treating conditions and preventing disease include:
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