Ginseng is a herb used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is rich in antioxidants and offers several benefits for health, blood sugar control, immune function, and more. This herb has wide varieties; the most popular are Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). According to research, American ginseng capsules work as a relaxing agent. Ginsenosides and gintonin are two compounds in ginseng that complement one another to provide multiple health benefits. This article enlists some proven health benefits of ginseng.
- Reduces Inflammation
Ginseng contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for reducing inflammation. According to some test-tube studies, ginseng extracts and ginsenoside could inhibit inflammation and minimize oxidative damage to chronic disease-causing cells.
Even a study including 12 active males discovered that short-term supplementation with American ginseng extract could reduce exercise-induced muscle damage along with inflammation.
- Boosts Brain Function
Altered mood and lack of concentration are significant symptoms of chronic fatigue disorder.
People can improve their concentration levels and thinking skills by having ginseng capsules, making them mentally active and alert. Therefore, ginseng is an excellent herb for relieving mental fatigue.
Moreover, research shows Korean red ginseng boosts cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s. The ginsenoside compound improves memory and learning capability while increasing the brain cells’ survival rate.
- Anti-Aging Effect
Continuous exposure to harmful UV rays can generate free radicals and affect the skin collagen, which disrupts the skin’s antioxidant defense system fastening the skin aging process. Ginseng is a powerful anti-aging herb that supports rejuvenation by reducing oxidative stress. This magical herb reduces the free radical attack, protects collagen, and inhibits the formation of wrinkles while hydrating the skin.
- Improves Fertility
Ginseng acts as an aphrodisiac in traditional Chinese medical practice. This herb is used to treat sexual dysfunction and enhance sexual behavior by boosting sperm count and quality in men. Moreover, men can treat their erectile dysfunction by consuming ginseng capsules for 2 to 3 months.
- Lowers Cholesterol
The research discovered that taking 6 grams of ginseng each day for 8 weeks lowered the cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels. In addition to this, the level of HDL increased. The activity of superoxide dismutase, an oxidant reducing cholesterol synthesis, increased due to ginseng. Furthermore, the level of malondialdehyde- a compound that increases LDL, is reduced.
- Prevents Cancer
Researchers discovered that ginseng is effective against gastric, colon, hepatic, and prostate cancers. This magical herb can reduce the size of the tumor and prevent it from spreading to other body parts. Moreover, ginseng compounds lower oxidative stress and inflammation, which causes cancer. It also flushes out harmful toxins from the body and kills cancer cells.
Conclusion
Ginseng is an herbal supplement commonly touted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, this magical herb might strengthen the immune system, reduce fatigue, improve brain function, treat erectile dysfunction, and provide many other health benefits. People can consume ginseng in raw form or steam it lightly. If a person can’t consume ginseng directly, he can also have it in tablet or capsule form.
