Holistic Medicine and StudiesGinseng: Promoting a Sense of Well-Being
There are different types of ginseng, but the type that is most commonly used in holistic medicine is panax ginseng, also known as Asian ginseng. It is used in the treatment protocol for many ailments, including high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction hepatitis C and menopause symptoms. But it is probably most commonly used to promote an overall sense of wellbeing.
It is the root that actually contains the compounds that are believed to make ginseng work. These compounds are called ginsenosides. In order to use the root, it is first dried and then made into extracts, capsules, teas or creams. Much like ginkgo biloba, ginseng is a popular medicinal herb used in the Western world. Because of this, there have been some studies on its effectiveness. Not to say that scientific studies aren’t done in the east, but in the west, we tend to put more weight on clinical studies and less on historical performance.
Studies on ginseng’s ability to lower glucose have been promising, as have studies on its role in supporting overall immune function. It’s important to understand that very few large-scale clinical trials have been done on this medicinal herb, so its effects aren’t completely understood. Although there has been more research on ginseng than many other holistic remedies, the medical community seems to agree that more must be done before modern medicine can recommend ginseng as treatment for any ailment.
If you think ginseng might help a problem you’re having or enhance your life in another way, you should talk to a holistic practitioner to get more information. Even though ginseng is a natural substance, it can interact with other herbs or drugs you may be taking and have dangerous side effects. You may have learned quite a bit about the benefits and side effects of ginseng through research or online classes, but only a holistic medical practitioner evaluate your personal situation to determine whether you might have a bad reaction to the herb. A holistic practitioner should be aware and able to inform you of any potentially harmful contradictions.
Most people find the recommended doses of ginseng to be safe, but a few people have been known to have allergic reactions, so proceed with caution. You may want to take a smaller dose until you know how your body will react. The most common side effects of ginseng are headaches, sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal problems.
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