 |
 |
|
|
|
|
GINSENG OVERVIEW
Ginseng is used throughout the Far East as a general tonic to combat weakness and give extra energy. There are a number of different types of ginseng:
- Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)
- Panax Quinquefolius (American Ginseng)
- Panax Ginseng (Chinese, Asian, or Korean Ginseng)
- Panax Japonicum (Japanese Ginseng)
However, Siberian Ginseng is not a Ginseng at all and is a different botanical family, but Russian scientists believe it functions like Ginseng (having many of the same effects as Panax Ginseng) and have promoted it as such. Siberian Ginseng is also less expensive so many use it instead of Panax Ginseng.
There are two ways Ginseng is processed. Dried and unprocessed root is called "White Ginseng", while the steam and heat dried root is called "Red Ginseng". Traditional Chinese herbalists believe each form has its own particular benefits.
GINSENG MEDICAL USES
The general public regard Ginseng to be a stimulant, but those who have used it seriously know that is not accurate. A Russian scientist studied the herb and found it to be an adaptogen. An adaptogen is a hypothetical treatment or prescription for health. A healthy lifestyle is the one indisputable example of an adaptogen. Eating right, exercising, and doing all things in moderation will help the body adapt to stresses such as heat, cold, exertion, trauma, sleep deprivation, toxic exposure, radiation, infection, or psychological stress. There are no side effects with an adaptogen. It must be able to treat a variety of illnesses and help an organism return to its balanced state no matter what the cause. Ginseng is seen as producing the same benefits. Chinese herbalists do not entirely agree as they say it works as other herbs do in that it is helpful for those who need its particular effects, but is neutral, and sometimes harmful for others.
In addition to Ginseng's ability to help the body adapt to stress, studies have confirmed it's effectiveness in boosting the immune system, helping control diabetes, stimulating the mind, and improving physical performance (for athletes). This herb is also said to help prevent cancer, fight chemical dependency and improve sexual performance; however, there is no evidence to support those claims.
GINSENG DOSAGE INFORMATION
The standard dosage of Panax Ginseng is 1 to 2 g of raw herb, or 200 mg per day of an extract standardized to contain 4 to 7 percent ginsenosides. For Eleutherococcus, take 2 to 3 g whole herb or 300 to 400 mg of extract per day. In most cases, a 2 to 3 week period of using Ginseng is recommended, with a 1 to 2 week "rest" period. Panax Ginseng is very expensive so many products contain very little of the herb, but instead is combined with other herbs and even caffeine in some cases. It is important to read product label directions.
GINSENG SAFETY & INTERACTION INFORMATION
Ginseng appears to be non-toxic and side effects are rare. Some reports suggest that exceeding the recommended doses causes increased blood pressure and heart rate, over-stimulation, and insomnia; however, it is not clear if the effects are from the combination of caffeine with Ginseng. There is some evidence that Ginseng interferes with drugs processed by an enzyme called "CYP 34A", MAO inhibitors, digitalis, and Coumadin (warfarin). If you are taking medications of any kind, it is best to consult with your physician before adding a Ginseng supplement to your regimen. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known.
PANAX GINSENG
Panax ginseng is the most widely used species and is also known as Korean Ginseng, Chinese Ginseng or Asian Ginseng. Supplements are traditionally prepared from 2 year old roots.
Early Native Americans were familiar with ginseng. They called it gisens and used it for stomach and bronchial disorders, asthma, and neck pain. Russian scientists claim that ginseng root stimulates both physical and mental activity, improves endocrine gland function, and has a positive effect on the sex glands. Ginseng is beneficial for fatigue because it spares glycogen (the form of glucose stored in the liver and muscle cells) by increasing the use of fatty acids as an energy source. It is used to enhance athletic performance, to rejuvenate and to increase longevity, and to detoxify and normalize the entire system.
In lower doses, ginseng seems to raise blood pressure while higher amounts appear to reduce blood pressure. Research suggests that high doses of ginseng may be helpful for inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, without side effects of radiation. Ginseng is beneficial for people with diabetes because it decreases the level of the hormone cortisol in the blood (cortisol interferes with the function of insulin). However, people with hypoglycemia should avoid using large amounts of ginseng.
The root is sold in many forms as a whole root or root pieces, which are either untreated or blanched; as a powder or powdered extract; as a liquid extract or concentrate; in granules for instant tea; as a tincture; in an oil base; and in tablets and capsules. These products should not contain sugar or added color, and should be pure ginseng. Many supplement manufacturers add ginseng to combination products, but these products often contain such low amounts that they may not be effective. Wakunaga distributes several high-quality Korean and Siberian ginseng products.
The following Russian approach is advised when using ginseng: Take it for 15 to 20 days, followed by a rest period of 2 weeks. Avoid long-term usage of high doses.
AMERICAN GINSENG
American Ginseng, also known as Panax quinquefolius, Anchi Ginseng, Canadian Ginseng, Ginseng, Ginseng Root, North American Ginseng, Occidental Ginseng, Ontario Ginseng, Panax quinquefolium, Red Berry, Ren Shen, Sang, Shang, Wisconsin Ginseng, Xi Yang Shen.
American ginseng is grown in the Eastern portion of North America, along the entire eastern seaboard, from Quebec to Florida. Unlike Asian ginseng, which has "warming" properties, American ginseng has "cooling" properties and is noted for its thirst quenching effects. Native Americans in North America used it in the exact same way as the Chinese, as a preventative. The Cherokee called it "The little man", and used it for colic, convulsions, dysentery, and headaches. When it was first discovered that ginseng did grow wild in North America, it became quite a big business. Daniel Boone, American folk hero and frontiersman, was known as a fur trader, but he actually made quite a fortune selling wild harvested ginseng.
Constituents in American Ginseng are acetic acid, adenine, adenosine, alanine, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, beta-sitosterol, caryophyllene, cysteine, ferulic acid, folic acid, at least 10 different ginsenosides, glycine, guanidine, histidine, Isoleucine, kaempferol, magnesium, malic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, salicylic acid, tannins, tyrosine, vanadium, zinc.
Parts used are the mature root, washed, dried and cut.
Typical preparations include teas, extracts, or in capsules and it is commonly found as an ingredient in soft drinks.
American ginseng is eleuthero's kinder and gentler cousin. It is especially helpful for males engaged in weight control. A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition noted that men who take at least 3 grams of American ginseng per day experience lower blood sugars and lower insulin levels after eating. Lower levels of insulin lead to a lesser tendency to store food as fat. Weight lost by diet and exercise is more likely to stay off when men use American ginseng. Women are more likely to use American ginseng to control undesirable symptoms of menopause. For this application, more is better. A full daily dose of American ginseng provides many of the same symptomatic benefits as estrogen replacement therapy, and laboratory research suggests that the herb provides chemicals that "lock" estrogen receptors and possibly prevent estrogen-stimulation of breast cancer. Both men and women with diabetes benefit from American ginseng at a relatively high dose, at least 3 grams a day. Clinical study has found that the herb prevents post-prandial hyperglycemia, the sudden spike in blood sugars after a meal.
Precautions: Most herbalists recommend taking American ginseng (or any other ginseng) for a month at a time, followed by a two-week "rest."
SIBERIAN GINSENG
Eleuthero Root, also known as Eleutherococcus senticosus, (Formerly known as Siberian ginseng, a name banned in the United States by the Ginseng Labeling Act of 2002) Acanthopanax senticosus, Ci Wu Jia, Ciwujia, Devil's Bush, Devil's Shrub, Eleuthera, Eleuthero, Eleutherococc, Eleutherococci radix, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Ginseng Root, Hedera senticosa, Pepperbrush, Prickly Eleutherococc, Shigoka, Touch-Me-Not, Ussuri, Ussurian Thorny, Wild Pepper, Wu Jia Pi.
Eleuthero is a woodland plant native to southeastern Siberia and the Korean peninsula, and adapted to the damp forests of British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and northern California. A relative of the more famous red ginseng, Eleuthero has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine since about 190 AD. It became a widely cultivated herb after its use as an adaptogen (an herb that helps the body adapt to stress) was discovered by a Soviet scientist named Brekhman in the 1940's. It was dispensed to entire cities in Siberia for 10 weeks in early winter to prevent colds and flu, and used as a treatment for radiation exposure after the Chernobyl accident.
Siberian Ginseng, Eleutherococcus senticosus, is not truly considered ginseng at all, but Russian scientists believe it functions like Ginseng, and so have promoted it as such. Siberian Ginseng has a general tonic effect on the body, in particular on the adrenal glands, helping the body to withstand heat, cold, infection, other physical stresses and radiation just like ginseng. It has even been given to astronauts to counter the effects of weightlessness. Siberian Ginseng is also less expensive than Panax Ginseng so many use it instead.
Constituents include Eleutherosides B and E, and immunostimulant complex polysaccharides.
Parts used are the dried root.
SIBERIAN GINSENG MEDICINAL USES
Siberian Ginseng strengthens the adrenal and reproductive glands. It enhances immune function, helps prevent infection, promotes lung functioning and stimulates the appetite. It useful for bronchitis, circulatory problems, diabetes, infertility, lack of energy, and stress. There is some evidence that it can help ease withdrawal from cocaine, and help improve drug or alcohol induced liver dysfunction in older adults. Siberian Ginseng protects the body against the effects of radiation exposure. It is used by athletes for overall body strengthening. Siberian Ginseng is most effective in the treatment of prolonged exhaustion and debility, resulting from overwork and long-term stress.
Eleuthero is an "adaptogen," an agent that helps the body address to stress. Scientists believe it helps prevent "adrenal burnout" caused by ongoing physical or mental challenges. Eleuthero boosts concentration and focus without the letdown than comes from drinking coffee or other sources of caffeine. Eleuthero also boosts immunity. Healthy people taking 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of tincture three times daily have been shown to have increased numbers of the immune cells (CD4+ cells) that have decrease during HIV-infection and AIDS.
Eleuthero may also enhance athletic performance. Eleuthero was a favorite of trainers and coaches of Olympic athletes in the old Soviet Union. When the word about Eleuthero got out, Western scientists put it to the test. A study of six baseball players found that taking Eleuthero for 8 days increased breathing capacity. That is, Eleuthero gave the players more wind to sprint between bases. In another clinical test, scientists in Australia found that men (and women) who took Eleuthero 8 weeks had 13 percent strength gains in the pectoral muscles and 15 percent in the biceps. And a company in New Jersey found that taking Eleuthero for 8 weeks increased the body's ability to burn fat through exercise by about 43 percent. The scientists running these tests recruited experienced athletes. The benefits of this readily available herb are even more noticeable in beginning athletes. Just be sure to take the herb for at least 8 weeks for best results. Combining Eleuthero with other herbs can be even better. Soviet scientists found taking both schisandra and Eleuthero benefited endurance athletes by giving them an immune system boost. The two herbs together helped prevent colds, flu, and other infections after athletic events. Eleuthero is not the only herb for athletes. American trainers report a combination of sea buckthorn, wild oats, and stinging nettle increases strength, anaerobic power (muscle output when the athlete is out of breath), endurance time, and even feelings of well being. For best results, increase the vitamin C foods in your diet when you take these herbs.
SIBERIAN GINSENG DOSAGE INFORMATION
As a decoction take 35 ml of Siberian Ginseng 2 times a day for use as a general tonic. To take in tincture form, use 1/2 teaspoon with water 3 times a day. For other forms, read follow product label directions.
SIBERIAN GINSENG SAFETY & INTERACTION
Siberian Ginseng is a safe herb with low toxicity, but excessive amounts can cause headaches, insomnia (if taken too close to bedtime), heart palpitations, or a rise in blood pressure in some people. Do not use if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disorders, asthma, insomnia, or if you are pregnant or nursing. Safety in young children, or those with severe kidney or liver disease is not known.
GINSENG SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
American Ginseng Root Candy, Prince of Peace, 5.3 oz.
American Ginseng, an adaptogen with yin properties that has a sedative effect on the central nervous system.
American Ginseng Root, Nature's Way, 550 mg, 50 Caps
American Ginseng Root (Panax quinquefolium), valued by Native Americans, first attracted the attention of colonists in the early 1700s.
American Ginseng Whole Root, 4 oz. Bulk
Ginseng is considered to be the King of all Tonics; as it provides stimulation to the entire body for stress, fatigue, weakness, and deficiencies. It stimulates and improves the brain cells and is especially stimulating for mental fatigue.
Bee Pollen With Siberian Eleuthero, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Bee pollen capsules can improve overall vitality and endurance, especially when active and demanding lifestyles create fatigue or reduce work capacity and concentrate.
BrainAid, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 60 Tabs
Designed to enhance brain function and support memory. BrainStorm contains nutrients that variously support blood circulation, neurotransmitter production and neurological function.
B-Stress Vitamin complex With Siberian Eleuthero, Nature's Way, 100 Caps
If you are looking for herbal stress relief, you will find B-Stress Vitamin Complex with Siberian Eleuthero, formerly Siberian Ginseng Root to be just what you are looking for.
Complete Tonic Uplifter, Shiquan Dabu, Balanceuticals, 60 Caps
Complete Tonic Uplifter contains natural extracts from various plants, trees, and berries to promote natural healing for many different ailments.
Daily Honey Ginseng Green Tea, Republic of Tea, 50 Tea Bags
Republic of Teas relaxing blend Honey Ginseng Tea combines the ancient healthy properties of China green tea with Panax ginseng and full blossom honey.
Dong Quai Root Powder (Angelica Sinensis), 4 oz. Bulk
Dong Quai root (Angelica sinensis), referred to as the "female ginseng", is rich in vitamins and minerals and is one of the most widely used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. It is effective for female disorders such as menstrual disturbances, PMS and hot flashes due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, bactericidal and vasodilative effects. The herb is also used to regulate menstrual cycles, relieve menstrual cramps and alleviate symptoms related to PMS.
Eleuthero Supplement Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
A Eleuthero Supplement is indicated for those with a lot of stress that want to avoid burn out, fatigue, and immune breakdown. It is great for those with passion and fire where taking other Ginseng products would aggravate them.
Eleuthero Vascutone Herb Tea, 20 Tea Bags
Siberian Ginseng Root helps support the immune system, improve memory, endurance, vitality, and to balance hormone levels in male and female.
Energizer Formula With Siberian Eleuthero, Nature's Way, 430 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way Energizer formula includes Siberian Eleuthero and Bee Pollen.
Energy Ephedra Free, NOW Foods, 90 Caps
NOW Foods Energy, Ephedra Free, combines a comprehensive array of nutrients and dietary ingredients that provide your body with a natural source of energy.
Female Energy & Power Formula Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
This herbal energy formula combats fatigue naturally and increases vitality.
Female Energy Tea With Black Cumin Seed, 20 Tea Bags
This energizing tea is formulated to help ladies get into an intimate mood. Made with Black Cohosh, Ginseng, Ginkgo, Black Cumin Seed, St. Johns Wort, Gotu Kola, and other herbs.
Ginseng Master Tincture, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.
Ginseng Master contains Reishi with Eleuthero Root for more adrenal and immune support. It is a supreme energy tonic that supports and regulates all systems inundated by stress. It is supportive to the immune, hormonal and adrenal systems.
Green Tea Extract Diet Support With Panax Ginseng, 10.2 fl. oz., 30 Vials
Many diet formulas contain diuretic or laxative substances which can be harmful but Green Tea Extract from Prince of Peace diet support formula does not contain any of these.
Hair Regeneration Herb Tea, 100% Natural, Caffeine Free, 20 Tea Bags
Chinese medicine uses their blood circulation promoting, internal secretion regulating, liver and kidney nurturing, bacteria and fungus inhibiting properties to maintain hair growth and to fend off premature grey hair.
Instant Energy With Yerba Mate, Extra Strength, 1000 mg, 30 mg.
Yerba Mate tablets have a stimulating effect on metabolism, without the jitters. A faster metabolism not only means you burn more calories, it means you turn more calories into energy. Try Instant Energy with Yerba Mate.
Korean Ginseng Extract, Nature's Way, 60 Caps
Nature's Way standardized Korean Ginseng Extract is a scientifically and technically advanced standardized to 7 percent ginsenosides with a guaranteed Rg. to Rb. Ratio of 1:2 and supported by the whole herb.
Korean Ginseng Reishi Root Tea, 100% Pure, 48 Tea Bags
Both Korean Panax Ginseng and Jilin Panax Ginseng have antioxidants and insulin-like substances that are not found in other Ginseng products and research has shown that they support the liver, central nervous, circulatory, immune and glandular systems.
Korean Ginseng Root, Nature's Way, 560 mg, 100 Caps
Korean Ginseng Root (panax ginseng) is revered in the Orient for centuries as a traditional herb to promote vitality.
Longings For Men, Natural Penis Supplement, Max Strength, 60 Caps
The real thing for men, not an imitation. Increase your penis length and width. Improve your ability in bed and satisfy both of you. Natural herbal and Ginseng bled formula.
Male Energy Tea With Black Cumin Seed, 20 Tea Bags
This tea is for the guys! Made with Ginseng, Ginkgo, Yohimbe, Saw Palmetto, Black Cumin Seed and other herbs in this energizing tea will get their motor running.
Male Hormone Tincture For Sex Drive, 2 fl. oz.
The Male Hormone Tincture bring balance to the male hormones for impotence and for prostate problems.
Manhood Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
In Chinese Medicine these Herbs enhance energy, support the immune system, and are considered an elixir for sexual functions.
Menopause Formula Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
The Menopause Formula aids the menopausal woman and helps to alleviate the classical menopausal symptoms.
Metabozest EF Weight Loss & Energy Supplement, Ephedra Free, 90 Tabs
Metabozest EF Weight Loss Supplement combines natural ingredients for weight loss plus nutrients and herbs selected to help the body increase metabolic rate, improve solubility, manage appetite, and facilitate carbohydrate metabolism without Ephedra.
Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng) Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
This tea is for general debility, fatigue, for "pacifying the nerve system and nourishing the brain" and for immunity support, energy, mental power, alertness.
Panax Ginseng, NOW Foods, 520 mg, 100 Caps
The Panax Ginseng Roots and root hairs used in this product have been specially selected for their high concentration of ginsenosides, the most active constituent in ginseng.
President's Super Energy Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
For normal cardiovascular, urological, neurological and sexual functions and for general immunity, longevity and sharp brain power, etc.
Red Ginseng Royal Jelly, 10 ml Vials, 30 Vials
Royal Jelly is abundant in carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, proteins, various enzymes, flavonoids, and nucleic acids.
Red Panax Ginseng, Ultra Strength, 10 ml Vials, 30 Vials
Red Panax Ginseng is often used to increase energy.
Sex Stimulant Formula Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Use the Sex Stimulant Formula for impotence and as an all natural stimulant for sexual activity.
Siberian Eleuthero Ginseng Root Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, 485 mg, 60 Caps
Siberian ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. It is called an "adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation which normally would alter its function.
Siberian Eleuthero Root, Nature's Way, 410 mg, 100 Caps
Eleuthero Ginseng root (Eleutherococcus Senticosus), also known as Eleuthero Root or Siberian Ginseng Root, enhances physical and mental vitality and endurance.
Stamina Herb Tea, Rhodiola Tea, 20 Tea Bags
Stamina Herb Tea is made of wild rhodiola rosea root and panax ginseng.
St. John's Wort Herbal Tea Blend, 20 Tea Bags
St. John's Wort Herb Tea is made of wild St. John's Wort and Siberian Ginseng. These Herbs tonify the nervous system, ease anxiety and depression, and support the immune system.
Suma Root (Brazilian Ginseng), 500 mg, 100 Caps
Suma Root is also known as "Brazilian Ginseng" due to its popularity within the large Japanese community in Brazil.
Ultimate Energy, Ephedra & Caffeine Free, Nature's Secret, 100% Natural, 50 Tabs
A multi-ginseng and herb formula that boosts energy and sustains mental and physical strength without artificial stimulants, ephedra, or caffeine.
Yogi Tea Ginseng Royal Vitality, 80% Organic, 16 Bags
Yogi Tea Ginseng Royal Vitality is specially designed to boost mental and physical energy for both men and women.
GINSENG PRODUCTS & INFORMATION
Mountain Rose Herbs: Eleuthero Root, Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Herbs: Ginseng Root, Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Herbs: Red Ginseng Root, Bulk Herbs
Herbal Remedies: Ginseng Herb / Ginseng Root / Ginseng Information
Herbal Remedies: Ginseng Supplements & Ginseng Products
Herbal Remedies: Panax Ginseng (Korean, Chinese, Asian, American) Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Siberian Eleuthero Ginseng Supplements & Products
Shaman Shop: Ginseng, Bulk Herbs By The Pound
Shaman Shop: Ginseng, Capsules, Tablets & Extracts
READING RECOMMENDATIONS
Ginseng and Other Medicinal Plants
-- By Arthur Richard Harding
The Complete Ginseng Handbook: A Practical Guide for Energy, Health, & Longevity
-- By Jacques Moramarco
The Ginseng Book: Nature's Ancient Healer
-- By Stephen Fulder PhD et al
The Book of Ginseng: and Other Chinese Herbs for Vitality
-- By Stephen Fulder
The Ginseng Book: Nature's Ancient Healer
-- By Stephen Fulder Ph.D., et al
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics: Natural Food Supplements Index
For a full list of available products from Mountain Rose Herbs, click on banner below:
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
A Source For Medicinal & Ritual Herbs & Supplies
Aphrodisiacs Aromatherapy Bath & Body Care Bulk Herbs By The Pound Capsules, Tablets & Extracts Chinese Herbals Electronics Extracts First Aid Products Food Products, Mixes, Seeds, Snacks & More! Hair Care Products & Supplies Herbs & Oils, Kilo & Ton Hydroponics & Gardening Kava Products Kitchen & Housewares Mushrooms Musical Instruments Oral Care & Dental Products PC & IT - Computer Supplies & Accessories Skin Care, Cosmetics, & Gift Sets Smokes, Seeds, Cacti Spices, Salts, Sweeteners, & Seasonings Sports, Toys & Games Sweets, Candy, Chips & Snacks Stimulants Sedatives Teas & Coffees
Shaman Shop Home Page
