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Used in Asia for centuries, ginseng is a plant with many virtues for our health . Immune system, memory, fight against fatigue and stress, what are the benefits of the root of this plant?
Origin and history of ginseng?
Ginseng is a perennial plant that grows naturally in Asia. Its name, “ren shen” in Chinese, means “human-shaped root.” Today, Panax ginseng is primarily cultivated in Japan, China, and Korea.
Its root has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine for its many health benefits. Among the benefits attributed to it is its invigorating effect on both the body and mind.
For a long time, it was reserved for the Emperor and the powerful of China. During the 17th century, it crossed the continents to Europe where it immediately became very popular.
What are the benefits of ginseng?
Traditional Chinese medicine has attributed many virtues to Ginseng. Consequently, modern Western medicine has been interested in it very early on.
Ginseng has many benefits and acts on:
- Stimulation of the immune system
- The fight against fatigue
- Stimulating brain capacity
- Improving erectile dysfunction
These actions come from the specific active ingredients contained in the root: mainly saponins (there are 13 different ones) and ginsenosides.
Ginseng's stimulating effect on the immune system
Various scientific studies have highlighted the stimulating effect of ginseng on the body in general , and more specifically on the immune system. Ginseng therefore helps prepare one's natural defenses as winter approaches, for example to fight against recurring minor colds.
The effect of this root in cases of respiratory infection of viral origin has also been demonstrated.
More generally, by stimulating the body and its defenses, ginseng can be recommended as a supplement for everything related to hypercholesterolemia, diabetes or cardiovascular diseases.
Ginseng and the reduction of fatigue and stress
While ginseng has an effect on the immune system, it is also recommended for combating fatigue, stress and even lack of energy . Thanks to its tonic and energizing properties, it stimulates the body and reduces the feeling of stress.
This dual action promotes general well-being by helping to restore physical and psychological balance.
The effects of Ginseng on brain capacity
Consumed in capsule, powder, or decoction form, this root has a beneficial effect on the cognitive functions of our brain system. In fact, its consumption helps stimulate short-term memory and promotes intellectual concentration . These two benefits of ginseng are also recognized by the WHO (World Health Organization).
Studies are currently being conducted to try to demonstrate its action on patients suffering from:
- neurovegetative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, etc.);
- cognitive function disorders.
Does ginseng help with erectile dysfunction?
Ginseng has a reputation for being an aphrodisiac .
Deeply rooted in the collective imagination, this benefit on male sexual function has never been demonstrated.
On the other hand, 3 studies* involving a total of 200 male patients, with Ginseng treatment versus placebo, confirm a significant effect of taking ginseng on improving erections (measured according to the International Index of Erectile Function).
* cited in the summary file of the European Medicines Agency
March 25, 2014 ref EMA/HMPC/321232/2012 - Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC) Assessment report on Panax ginseng CA Meyer, radix.
How to consume ginseng?
Ginseng can be consumed in different forms: root, root powder or extracts.
Traditional ginseng comes in the form of whole roots used as a decoction in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
The decoction, which consists of maintaining the boil, is more suitable than the infusion (immersing the plant in boiling water without prolonging the boiling) because the density of the root requires greater energy to extract the active ingredients.
Ginseng root can also be consumed in powder form. This form is frequently used for dietary supplements (in capsules mainly to avoid the unpleasant bitter taste).
Since the cellulose structure of the plant remains intact and "traps" the active ingredients inside the cells, it is quite difficult to estimate the amount of active ingredients that will actually be available for absorption in the intestine.
Finally, there are also extracts which have the advantage of being more concentrated in active ingredients.
What dose of Ginseng should I consume?
The World Health Organization recommends a daily dose of 0.5 to 2 grams of dried roots (powder).
However, the main active ingredients of ginseng are present in relatively small quantities in the whole root (or in the root powder). Only 4% for saponins and 0.4% for ginsenosides.
Extracts have the advantage of concentrating the active ingredients and ensuring better bioavailability. Their ginsenoside concentration can be up to 20 times higher than that of raw powders (7%)...
It is best to avoid taking ginseng in the evening because its stimulating action can disrupt sleep.
The effectiveness of Ginseng in food supplements
In our Argalys Essentiels range, it is used in the formulation of “ Immuno Tonus bio ”.
This natural dietary supplement contains ginseng, as well as concentrated extracts of acerola and astragalus. This combination strengthens the stimulating effect of ginseng on the body's immune response. The body is thus better prepared to face all kinds of external aggressions (viruses, bacteria, etc.).
