Botanical:   Panax ginseng

Other common names:   Asian Ginseng, Chinese Ginseng, Panax Ginseng, Ginseng Root, Red Ginseng, Asiatic Ginger, Oriental Ginseng, Jintsam, Ninjin

Many athletes swear that Korean Ginseng gives them a competitive edge; women drink it to alleviate unpleasant symptoms of menopause; and millions of people have used this "wonder herb" to cope with stress and also as a stimulant and tonic.  Researchers claim that it lowers cholesterol (especially LDL or bad cholesterol), acts as an aphrodisiac and digestive aid, improves mental function and increases the body's energy and stamina.  Long considered to be an overall body tonic, Korean Ginseng is believed to vitalize, strengthen and rejuvenate the entire body.

Country of Origin: Asia

Beneficial Uses:
Korean Ginseng has been known to increase physical and mental endurance, reduce cholesterol and increase energy.  It is commonly taken to enhance physical performance, prolong life and increase sexual potency.  Korean Ginseng may increase the body’s production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and certain steroid hormones, such as adrenaline.  This is believed to stimulate the natural function of the body’s stress-response system, which keeps the adrenal glands from “burning out” during prolonged periods of stress.  It is even though that Korean Ginseng may reduce the stress ofanticipated pain.

With regard to cognitive ability, Korean Ginseng is said to significantly improve abstract thinking.  Several studies have found that treatment with Ginseng improved the ability to complete detailed tasks, perform mental arithmetic, as well as improve concentration, memory, attention and a general ability to cope.  Furthermore, it is said to enhance reaction to visual and auditory stimuli, as well as visual and motor

co-ordination.

Korean Ginseng has long been reported to be an aphrodisiac:  Chemicals in Ginseng are thought to stimulate the part of the brain known as the hypothalamus to direct the production of hormones that stimulate cell growth and healing in the sex organs.  It is also believed to promote better blood circulation within the penis, and an Italian study found that Ginseng use may increase testosterone levels, as well as the number and motility of sperm cells.

Korean Ginseng is considered an "adaptogen" in that it normalizes body functions during stressful or other situations that would alter those functions, helping the body to adapt and return to an overall sense of well-being.  Dr. I. Brekhman, a Soviet scientist, was the first to describe this unique ability to normalize body functions.  For example, if blood sugar levels drop too low, or blood pressure climbs too high, an adaptogen will aid the body's return to normal function.  Long before scientists researched its benefits, Chinese herbalists prescribed it to normalize blood pressure, improve blood circulation and prevent heart disease.

Korean Ginseng is thought to prevent liver damage in people who have been exposed to various drugs and toxins.  It has also been used to help in withdrawal from methamphetamines and cocaine.

When taken in lower doses, Korean Ginseng (like American Ginseng) acts as a sedative, and in higher doses, it is a stimulant.

Many women have claimed relief from hot flashes and other discomforts of menopause when taking the herb.  Lab studies indicate that it increases ovarian estrogen production in early menopause; consequently, if taking HRT (hormone replacement therapy), one should consult a physician prior to taking Asian Ginseng.

Korean Ginseng is said to enhance the breakdown of alcohol in the body and therefore may shorten a hangover.  The herb may also help improve drug or alcohol-induced liver dysfunction in older adults.

Panax Ginseng has been used to help the digestive system and stimulate the appetite; thus, some herbalists have used it with some success when treating anorexia.  It is also said to reduce digestive upset caused by emotional stress and inhibit ulcer formation.

Contraindications:
There have been reports of interactions between Korean Ginseng Herbal Supplement and MAO inhibitor drugs, digitalis, warfarin (Coumadin) and high doses of prescription steroids.  Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not use Ginseng, and diabetics should consult a physician before using.

Avoid taking Asian/Korean Ginseng for two weeks prior to elective surgery.  Korean Ginseng should not be used by people with hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, heart disorders, asthma or insomnia without first consulting a physician. Taking more than the recommended dosage of Korean Ginseng may cause slight insomnia if taken at bedtime.  Ginseng should not be used with stimulants or alcohol.