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American Ginseng

Description

American Ginseng has been used medicinally since the early 1700’s. American ginseng is used quite differently than its cousin, Panax ginseng (Asian Ginseng). American Ginseng is considered superior for its postive effects on the gastro-intestinal tract.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Digestive complaints - Sexual difficulties - Antioxidant properties - Cardiovasucular effects - Blood sugar support - Immune support - Adrenal support - Anti-microbial properties - Attention deficit disorder - Cancer treatment adjunct

Clinical Applications/Research

This plant was used by Native American tribes for digestive complaints and sexual difficulties. It has been in use in China for more than 200 years since the plant was first exported to Asia.

Antioxidant

American ginseng acts as an effective antioxidant in both lipid and aqueous media, chelating metal ions and scavenging free radicals (Kitts DD, et al, Antioxidant properties of a North American ginseng extract. Mol Cell Biochem 2000 Jan;203(1-2):1-10).

Cardiovascular Effects

American ginseng is also known for its cardiovascular effects. LDL oxidation (free radical attack of the “bad fats”) may play a role in atherosclerosis. Saponins from the leaves and stems of American ginseng protect against oxidation of LDL in vitro. Vitamin C significantly enhances the protective effects (Li JP, et al, Interactions between Panax quinquefolium saponins and vitamin C are observed in vitro. Mol Cell Biochem 2000 Jan;204(1-2):77-82).

Cancer Treatment Adjunct

American Ginseng has been noted as a cancer treatment adjunct. Concurrent use of American ginseng and breast cancer chemotherapy results in a significant suppression of cell growth for most drugs tested. Researchers conclude from these in vitro experiments that American ginseng and breast cancer chemotherapy synergistically inhibit cancer cell growth (Duda RB, et al, American ginseng and breast cancer therapeutic agents synergistically inhibit MCF-7 breast cancer cell growth. J Surg Oncol 1999 Dec;72(4):230-9).

Blood sugar support

American ginseng exhibits significant hypoglycemic (blood sugar lowering) activity in mice. In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial with healthy volunteers, American ginseng was able to lower blood sugar after an oral glucose challenge over a 90 minute post-prandial (after eating) period of blood testing. In non-diabetic individuals, American ginseng, at doses of 3, 6 or 9 gm, taken 40, 80 or 120 minutes before a glucose challenge, improves glucose tolerance in a similar fashion despite variations in dosage (Vuksan V, et al, American ginseng improves glycemia in individuals with normal glucose tolerance: effect of dose and time escalation. J Am Coll Nutr 2000 Nov-Dec;19(6):738-44).

Immune and Adrenal Support

The ginsenosides found in American Ginseng have been shown to stimulate the immune system and combat fatigue and stress by supporting the adrenal glands.

Suggested Dosage

2-4 grams daily or as directed by your healthcare professional

Contraindications/Toxicology

Insomnia or agitation may be a possible side effect of American Ginseng use. Taking it early in the morning and avoiding caffeine foods may alleviate this problem. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been confirmed. Caution is indicated in diabetic patients taking insulin or drugs that lower blood sugar. Careful monitoring of blood sugar levels and adjustment of medicines is critical if American ginseng is used concurrently.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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