Live Well Vitamins & Lifestyle Guide

Ginseng Supplements

The ginseng root has been used as a treatment in Asia and North America for centuries. Ginseng is one of the most popular herbal medicines in the world. 

Ginseng Uses

Ginseng has traditionally been used for a number of medical conditions. However, only a fraction of them have been seriously researched.

The strongest evidence for ginseng exists for improving concentration and learning ability. In some studies of mental performance, ginseng has been combined with ginkgo. Still, some studies have not shown a benefit for ginseng, so researchers say more study is needed.

Several human studies have also shown that ginseng may lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes should take ginseng only under the care of a doctor. The optimal dose and ginseng’s long-term effects are unknown.

Some studies have also found that ginseng may help boost the immune system. While these studies are intriguing, many experts feel that we need more evidence.

Ginseng has also been studied as a way to improve mood and boost endurance, as well as treat cancer, heart disease, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C, high blood pressure, menopausal symptoms, and other conditions. For now, the evidence for these uses of ginseng is uncertain.

Ginseng Dose and Instructions for Use

Ginseng does not have an established scientific dose. However, ginseng (standardized to 4% ginsenosides) is often taken in 100-milligram to 200-milligram capsules once or twice a day. Other forms of ginseng will have different dosing instructions.

Ginseng Food Sources

There are no natural food sources of ginseng. Ginseng may be added to energy drinks and foods.

Ginseng Supplement Information

Dried ginseng root is sold as capsules, tablets, extracts and teas. Like any supplement, keep ginseng supplements in a cool, dry place, away from humidity and direct sunlight.

Supplements contain different species of ginseng: Asian ginseng (from China or Korea) and American ginseng. Studies have not found different effects from different species. However, in traditional Chinese medicine, American ginseng is considered less stimulating than the Asian variety.  While other herbs are called ginseng -- like eleuthero, or Siberian ginseng -- they do not contain the active ingredient of ginsenosides.

Ginseng Warnings

• Side effects from ginseng are generally mild. Since ginseng acts as a stimulant, ginseng has been reported to cause nervousness and insomnia. Long-term use or high doses of ginseng may cause headaches, dizziness, stomach upset, and other symptoms. Women who use ginseng regularly may develop breast tenderness and menstrual changes. There have also been some reports of allergic reactions to ginseng.
• Interactions. Because ginseng may affect blood sugar levels, people taking drugs for diabetes should not use ginseng without talking to their doctor first. Caffeine may amplify ginseng’s stimulant effects.  
• Risks. To avoid side effects from ginseng, some experts suggest that ginseng shouldn’t be used for more than three months -- or sometimes just a few weeks -- at a time.

Given the lack of evidence about its safety, ginseng is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.