What is it?
This is a non-medical term used to describe substances that can supposedly strengthen the body and increase general resistance to daily stress.
In addition to being used as an adaptogen, Siberian ginseng is used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels such as high blood pressure, low blood pressure, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), and rheumatic heart disease.
It is also used for kidney disease, Alzheimer’s disease, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, flu, colds, chronic bronchitis, and tuberculosis. It is also used for treating the side effects of cancer chemotherapy.
Some people use Siberian ginseng to improve athletic performance and the ability to do work. They also use it to treat sleep problems (insomnia) and the symptoms of infections caused by herpes simplex type 2.
It is also used to boost the immune system, prevent colds, and increase appetite.
In manufacturing, Siberian ginseng is added to skin care products.
Don’t confuse Siberian ginseng with other types of ginseng. Siberian ginseng is not the same herb as American or Panax ginseng. Be careful about which product you choose. American and Panax ginseng can be a lot more expensive.
It is said that years ago, the Soviet Union wanted to provide its athletes with the advantages offered by ginseng but wanted a less expensive version. So, Siberian ginseng became popular, and this is why most studies on Siberian ginseng have been done in Russia.
You should know that the quality of Siberian ginseng products varies a lot. Siberian ginseng is often misidentified or contains “adulterants,” which are other ingredients that do not contribute to the benefit of the product, but take up space in the product. Silk vine is a common adulterant of Siberian ginseng.
Before taking Siberian ginseng, talk with your healthcare provider if you take any medications. This herb interacts with many prescription drugs.
How effective is it?
Possibly effective for…
- A viral infection called herpes simplex 2 (HSV-2). Taking a specific Siberian ginseng extract, standardized to contain a specific ginseng ingredient called eleutheroside 0.3% (Elagen), seems to reduce the number, severity, and duration of herpes simplex type 2 infections.
- Relieving symptoms of the common cold, when used in combination with an herb called andrographis. Some clinical research shows that taking a specific combination product containing Siberian ginseng plus andrographis (Kan Jang, Swedish Herbal Institute) significantly improves symptoms of the common cold when started within 72 hours of symptom onset. Some symptoms can improve after 2 days of treatment. It generally takes 4-5 days of treatment for the maximum benefit. Some research suggests this combination of Siberian ginseng and andrographis relieves cold symptoms in children better than echinacea.
There is some evidence to rate effectiveness for…
- Memory. There is limited evidence that suggests Siberian ginseng might improve memory and feelings of well-being in middle-aged people.
- Chronic fatigue syndrome. Taking Siberian ginseng does not seem to reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Quality of life. Some research shows that Siberian ginseng significantly improves sociability and sense of well-being in people over 65 years of age after 4 weeks of treatment. But the effects seem to disappear after 8 weeks.
- Stroke.
- Heart disease.
- Kidney problems.
- Alzheimer’s disease.
- Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- High cholesterol.
- Fatigue.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Flu.
- Chemotherapy side effects.
- Bronchitis.
- Tuberculosis.
- Low oxygen levels.
- Motion sickness.
- Other conditions.
However, more evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of Siberian ginseng for these uses.
How does it work?
Are there safety concerns?
Siberian ginseng is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when used short-term. While side effects are rare, some people can have drowsiness, changes in heart rhythm, sadness, anxiety, muscle spasms, and other side effects. In high doses, increased blood pressure might occur.
Special precautions & warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of Siberian ginseng during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Heart conditions: Siberian ginseng can cause a pounding heart, irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure. People who have heart disorders (e.g., “hardening of the arteries,” rheumatic heart disease, or history of heart attack) should use Siberian ginseng only under a healthcare provider’s supervision.
High blood pressure: Siberian ginseng should not be used by people with blood pressure over 180/90. Siberian ginseng might make high blood pressure worse.
Hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids: Siberian ginseng might act like estrogen. If you have any condition that might be made worse by exposure to estrogen, don’t use Siberian ginseng.
Diabetes: Siberian ginseng can affect blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar carefully if you take Siberian ginseng and have diabetes.
Mental conditions such as mania or schizophrenia: Siberian ginseng might make these conditions worse. Use with caution.
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