As an expert in the field of herbal medicine, I have been closely following the ongoing research on the biochemical and pharmacological activities of ginseng related to blood pressure control. One question that often comes up is whether American Ginseng can raise blood pressure. In this article, I will share with you the latest findings and my professional opinion on this topic. First, let's look at the evidence. Several human studies have shown that American Ginseng can actually lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
This effect was observed in both fasting blood sugar and postprandial (after eating) glucose levels. In fact, one study found that when people with type 2 diabetes drank American Ginseng before or together with a high-sugar beverage, they experienced a smaller increase in blood glucose levels. But what about its effect on blood pressure? While North American ginseng has been found to prevent diabetes-related complications by reducing stress, the effect of Asian Ginseng on blood pressure is more complicated. Some studies suggest that it lowers blood pressure, while others have found that it causes blood pressure to rise. This conflicting evidence has led researchers to wonder if ginseng increases blood pressure at regular doses, but lowers it when doses are higher. Until we have a definitive answer, my professional recommendation is that individuals with high blood pressure should avoid taking ginseng unless their doctor has given them the green light.
It's important to note that different types of ginseng may have different effects on blood sugar levels. For example, some believe that ginsenosides in American Ginseng may lower blood sugar, while the different ginsenosides in Asian Ginseng may actually increase it. In addition to its potential effects on blood pressure and blood sugar, ginseng has also been studied for its impact on breast cancer. One study found that American Ginseng extract may inhibit the proliferation of human breast cancer cells and reduce estrogen receptor activity. Another study showed that American ginseng, when combined with traditional breast cancer therapeutic agents, can have a synergistic effect in inhibiting the growth of MCF-7 breast cancer cells. It's worth noting that the term "ginseng" actually refers to two different plants: American (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian or Korean (Panax Ginseng).
While they have a similar chemical composition, they may have different effects on the body. Ginseng is often referred to as an adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body cope with stress. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to support this claim. So, who should take ginseng? Healthy individuals looking to improve physical or mental performance, prevent diseases, or better resist stress may benefit from taking Asian Ginseng in cycles. Both Asian and American ginseng contain substances called ginsenosides, which researchers believe are the active ingredients responsible for its potential health benefits. It's important to note that not all types of ginseng are created equal.
Siberian Ginseng, also known as Eleutherococcus senticosus, is a completely different plant with different effects. And while Asian Ginseng may offer potential benefits, it's important to be cautious when taking it in high doses or combining it with caffeine, as it may cause nervousness or insomnia. Finally, let's talk about menopause. Two well-designed studies have shown that Korean (Asian) red ginseng may alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause and improve feelings of well-being and mood, particularly feelings of depression. This is promising news for women experiencing menopause, but more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of ginseng in this area.
