Respiratory: Improves lung function, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, hearing loss, cold and flu (esp red)/flu prevention, sinusitis, pneumonia. (Panax)

Cardiovascular: Heart failure, hypertension, Raynauds,

Gastrointestinal: Indigestion, gastritis (inflammation of stomach lining), loss of appetite, liver dysfunction (panax), vomiting, gallstones, bad breath, bloating, constipation, Crohn's, improves digestion

Genitourinary: May help treat infertility and erectile dysfunction - possibly increases testosterone, may increase sexual arousal in women and men (esp. Korean red), decreases symptoms in perimenopause like hot flashes, and decreases menstrual cramps.

Musculoskeletal: May help improve physical endurance, fibromyalgia, joint pain, and arthritis

Skin: Wrinkled skin, decreases hair thinning and breakage, itching, rash

Neurologic: Headache remedy, improves thinking/cognitive function, concentration, memory (Korean/red ginseng/American ginseng), nerve pain, dizziness, fatigue, depression (Panax), Alzheimer's (Panax), Parkinson's, ADD (Korean Red and American). Approved by the German Commission E for fatigue, improved reaction times

Mental Health: Decreases stress, enhances feelings of well-being, antidepressant properties, antipsychotic properties, stimulant -"energizing" (more so with Asian), antianxiety, chronic fatigue, insomnia, ADHD

Glucose: May help decrease blood sugar in type II diabetes (Panax and American ginseng)

Immunity: Boosts immunity (Panax ginseng)

Cancer: Anticancer (liver, lung, skin)-may reduce risks. It may improve the quality of life for those with cancer, and cancer-related fatigue 

Infectious Disease: HIV/AIDS, HSV II (Siberian)

Other: Blood thinner, fever, weight loss, appetite loss, anemia, hangover, slows aging process/increases longevity, mild diuretic, decreases fatigue, cold sensitivity (esp. considered in Raynaud's)(Korean red)

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SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia, irritabiity, restlessness, mania, increase or decrease in blood pressure, tachycardia (racing heartbeat), palpitations, arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), palpitations (pounding or a feeling of fluttering), breast pain, vaginal bleeding. liver damage

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATION Be careful taking with blood pressure medications (may make blood pressure too high or low), contraindicated in those with breast and uterine cancer, uterine fibroids (hormone-sensitive conditions), caution with diabetes, low blood sugar, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, endometriosis, heart problems, central nervous system/brain vasculitis (vessel inflammation), bleeding conditions and blood thinners, organ transplant, insulin, anticoagulants/"blood thinners," alcohol, caffeine, Lasix (?), drugs metabolized by the P450 2D6 (examples: Elavil [Amitriptyline], Prozac, metoprolol, methadone, Ultram, Fentanyl), immunosuppressants, MAO inhibitors

Note: check with your health care provider before taking this or changing types of Gensing: Korean ginseng can interact negatively with some of your medications including blood pressure-lowering medications, statins, blood thinners, immune-suppressing drugs, diabetic medications, water pills (diuretics) and antidepressants can all have diminished or sometimes unsafe enhanced functions when combined with Korean ginseng, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains. Or if you take a stimulant or regularly consume caffeine, Korean ginseng could intensify the effects, making you anxious or jittery. It is recommended that you discuss the use of ginseng with your healthcare provider.

FORMS: Capsules, tea, powder, extracts, elixirs

Recommended Brands

• Pure Encapsulations® 50–160 mg — NSF certified — Available through this Fullscript link

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

It is generally recommended not to use ginseng continuously for long periods because of potential side effects. Some traditional and consumer sources suggest cycling ginseng to reduce tolerance and long‑term effects. Examples include using it for 3 weeks on/1 week off, or 3 months on/1 week off, then repeating.

Traditional herbal practices describe the use of Korean (Asian) Panax ginseng in capsule, powder, or extract form. Modern commercial products vary widely in strength and formulation, so traditional amounts may not apply to current products. Many people use ginseng for energy, cognitive support, immune support, or general vitality, but evidence varies and product strengths differ significantly.

Some consumer health sites, including RxList, describe various regimens used in research studies for cognitive support, circulation, and other conditions. These reflect study protocols rather than standardized clinical recommendations.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Panax ginseng has been used traditionally for vitality, stamina, immune support, and cognitive wellness. Traditional practices describe the use of ginseng root in teas, powders, extracts, and later standardized capsules. These uses are based on historical and consumer experience rather than strong clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.