-
Panax Ginseng or white ginseng:
neutral in energy. ‘Panax’ derives from the Greek word for panacea. Of Chinese or Asiatic origin but now also native
to North America.
-
Korean or Red Ginseng: very
hot/strong.
-
American Ginseng: cooling.
-
Siberian Ginseng (eleutherococcus
senticosus) : mild in energy. A relative of
Panax ginseng. Used as a general tonic and most widely promoted for general sale.
Traditionally, ginseng has long been valued as a powerful
and important Qi (Chi) tonic to aid the heart, and calm the anxious spirit.
Modern uses of ginseng
-
To
improve physical and mental endurance
-
Stimulate
an immune response. American Ginseng is amongst the strongest immune tonics used in
conjunction with other herbs.
-
Improve
glucose balance (homoeostasis), in diabetic patients
-
Improve
male potency (erectile function)
-
Cardiovascular
benefits (stabilise blood pressure – but can have negative effect, see below)
-
For
stress (exerts benefits on adrenal and pituitary glands)
-
For
asthma, Chinese and Korean ginseng is used to build up the body when in a state of
deficiency (pale complexion, weak pulse, shortness of breath etc)
-
To
counter the effects of radiation (x-rays, microwaves, TV’s, mobile phones etc)
-
For
loss of appetite and digestive symptoms due to mental and nervous exhaustion
Dangers from overdose
Taken for too long, ginseng can cause headaches,
high blood pressure, palpitations, and insomnia. Generally, it is safe to take for a
month, and then should not be taken for a period of at least two weeks. Ginseng is positively not recommended for patients
who suffer from high blood pressure, headaches, night sweats and flushing.
Getting the best ginseng
Ginseng has a long growing period. When harvested
early, the root has lesser potency or efficacy. Unscrupulous merchants will sell immature
root at a high price.
The Chinese as far back as 1750 found that ginseng
was in such demand that their indigenous supply of the root was diminishing. To satisfy
consumer demand, American ginseng was imported in large quantities and is now used
regularly.
Quality controls were created in 1992, but it is
still difficult to maintain a consistent standard. With ginseng, the strength of the herb
is dependent on its age and growing conditions. There is no guarantee that the active
ingredient (ginsenocides or eleutherosides)
is present in sufficient amounts or quality to give tonic properties.
 Ginseng is traditionally combined with other herbs, to create
a beneficial balance, when prescribed by herbalists.
Successful prescribing depends upon a close understanding of the patient’s
symptoms. For this reason, I cannot advise on buying ginseng over the counter without a
personal consultation.
Remember that herbs alone are not the saviours of
health. Whole food diets are the cornerstone for regeneration of body and mind. Herbs are
only an adjunct to the regenerative process. They are often powerful herbs with strong
medicinal content and should be used cautiously in the normal diet.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Cornelis van Dalen has
more than ten years experience in the Naturopathic approach to health and well-being. He
is Secretary-General of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners (ANP).
For any questions regarding courses in Naturopathy
and Complementary Medicine (Homoeopathy, Herbalism, Traditional Chinese Medicine), you are
invited to contact the CNM Head Office, at Unit 1, Bulrushes Farm, Coombe Hill Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 4LZ. Telephone 01342 410 505, Fax 01342 410 909, or e-mail :
info@bestcare-uk.com or go to www.naturopathy-uk.com The CNM has colleges in
London, Manchester, Exeter, Belfast, Dublin and Galway.
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