You may be asking yourself: “What is ginseng?” This article will give you the lowdown on this steroid-like root that’s used for mood enhancement, diabetes treatment, and more. Learn the benefits of ginseng and what you should be aware of before taking it. Also, keep in mind that it may interact with other drugs and herbal products. For example, ginseng can interact with certain prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. It can also interact with immune-suppressants, such as tacrolimus (FK506), sirolimus, and corticosteroids.
ginseng is a slow-growing perennial plant
The ginseng herb is a perennial plant in the Panax genus, which has many different species. Ginseng is native to eastern Asia and some parts of North America, and is sold in over 35 countries, with sales of ginseng exceeding $2.1 billion annually. It was used for centuries by the American Indians and is now found in many other parts of the world. The herb’s medicinal properties are so widely valued that ginseng has been placed on the endangered species list.
It’s a steroid-like root
While there are a number of herbal products available on the market, a steroid-like root like ginseng has a hormetic effect. It is known for its ability to boost the anti-oxidant status of skeletal muscle. This root is used in herbal supplements and drinks. While ginseng may be beneficial to some people, it should be used only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
It’s a treatment for diabetes
In one study, researchers used ginseng to improve glucose tolerance in people with type 2 diabetes. They also studied the effects of the herb on the pancreas. They measured insulin levels in the blood and looked at sensitivity to insulin in fat, muscle, and liver tissue. They also used stable tracers to track the insulin’s ability to decrease fat release and remove sugar from the bloodstream. Results showed that ginseng improved the levels of glucose and insulin in the bloodstream.
It boosts mood
The herb ginseng can enhance mood and create a calm and relaxed state. It can also improve energy levels, sex life, and personal satisfaction. It can also be used to treat depression. Combinations of ginseng are considered antidepressants. It regulates the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Many Asian ayurvedic formulas contain ginseng.
It improves VO2 max
Studies show that siberian ginseng can improve VO2 max. VO2 max is a measure of how much oxygen the body can take in during exercise. It is also known as maximal oxygen uptake or aerobic capacity. Siberian ginseng is a herb that grows wild in Asia and Russia. It contains a compound called eleutherosides that share the same benefits as ginsenosides.
It boosts estrogen production
Ginseng has significant estrogenic activity and was compared to synthetic estrogen in a study of mice. Results showed that ginseng significantly increased the expression of ER a and b, the two receptors involved in the physiological regulation of the female reproductive system. The results also indicated that ginseng binds to ER a with greater selectivity than ER b. This suggests that ginseng could enhance the production of estrogen in the body.
It improves cognitive performance
Researches have shown that Panax ginseng can help improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease. The modern pharmacologic effects of ginseng have been shown in the cardiovascular, endocrine, and immune systems, and they are also reported to improve cognitive performance in healthy individuals. Recently, investigators have looked at ginseng’s neuroprotective effects in experimental models of Alzheimer’s disease. Ginseng is a member of the Araliaceae family.