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| Photo copyright Steven Foster |
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
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| Photo copyright Steven Foster |
Parts used and where grown: Like its more familiar cousin, Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), the root of American ginseng is used medicinally. The plant grows wild in shady forests of northern and central United States as well as in parts of Canada. It is cultivated in the United States, China, and France.
In what conditions might American ginseng be supportive?
• stress
Historical or traditional use: Many Native American tribes used American ginseng. Medicinal uses ranged from digestive disorders to sexual problems.1 The Chinese began to use American ginseng after it was imported during the 1700s.2 The traditional applications in China are significantly different from those for Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng). American ginseng is considered superior for gastrointestinal problems.3
Active constituents: American ginseng contains ginsenosides, which stimulate the immune system
4 and fight fatigue and stress.5 The type and ratio of ginsenosides are somewhat different in American and Asian ginseng, however it is unclear to what extent this affects their medicinal properties. A recent study of healthy volunteers found no benefit in exercise performance after one week of taking American ginseng.6 This study might have been too short to determine definitive results. Additional clinical trials are needed to determine American ginseng’s medical uses. Refer to Asian ginseng for more information.How much should I take? Standardized extracts of American ginseng, unlike Asian ginseng, are not generally available. American ginseng can be taken in the amount of 1–2 grams per day in capsule or tablet form or 3–5 ml of tincture per day.
Are there any side effects or interactions? Occasional cases of insomnia or agitation are reported with American ginseng use; these conditions are more likely when caffeine-containing foods and beverages are also being consumed. Reducing intake of American ginseng or avoiding it later in the day can lessen the chances for adverse effects.
References:
1. Duke J. Ginseng: A Concise Handbook. Algonac, MI: Reference Publications,
1989, 36.
2. Bensky D, Gamble A, Kaptchuk T. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica.
Seattle: Eastland Press, 1993, 358–59.
3. Bensky D, Gamble A, Kaptchuk T. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica.
Seattle: Eastland Press, 1993, 358–59.
4. Foster S. American ginseng: Panax quinquefolius. Austin, TX: American
Botanical Council, 1991.
5. Shibata S, Tanaka O, Shoji J, Saito H. Chemistry and pharmacology of Panax. Econ
Med Plant Res 1:218–84.
6. Morris AC, Jacobs I, McLellan TM, et al. No ergogenic effect on ginseng ingestion. Int
J Sport Nutr 1996;6:263–71.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.