As an expert in herbal medicine, I am often asked about the best time to take American Ginseng. The answer is simple: within 2 hours of a meal. This is important because taking it too long before eating can cause your blood sugar levels to drop too low. Similar to Asian Ginseng, American Ginseng is a light tan knotty root that resembles a human body with fibrous buds on the arms and legs.
Native Americans have been using this root for centuries as a stimulant and to treat various ailments such as headaches, fever, indigestion, and infertility. Today, American Ginseng remains one of the most popular herbs in the United States. Numerous clinical studies have shown that it can boost the performance of cells that play a role in immunity. In fact, one study found that individuals with type 2 diabetes who consumed American Ginseng before or with a high-sugar beverage experienced a smaller increase in blood glucose levels. Another study showed that American Ginseng supplementation can reduce submaximal exercise-induced creatine kinase levels in humans. Furthermore, research has also been conducted on the effects of population, age, and cultivation methods on the ginsenoside content of wild American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium).
A review revealed that taking either American or Asian ginseng can help reduce symptoms of cancer-related fatigue when taken at doses of 2000 mg or 3000 mg per day, respectively. Additionally, studies have shown that American ginseng and breast cancer therapeutics can work together to inhibit the growth of MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Another study involving 100 individuals found that taking 2 g of Korean red ginseng daily for 8 weeks significantly increased immune cell levels compared to a placebo. In addition, a placebo-controlled trial showed that a patented North American ginseng extract (CVT-E00) can help prevent acute respiratory diseases in older adults living in institutions. Furthermore, research has also been conducted on the gene expression regulated by American Ginseng and ginsenoside Rg3 in human colorectal cancer cells. It is important to note that American Ginseng can lower blood sugar levels, which may interfere with the effectiveness of prescription medications for diabetes.
Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking American Ginseng if you are on any diabetes medications. Additionally, research has shown that American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L) can reduce postprandial glycemia in both non-diabetic individuals and those with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Interestingly, a preliminary study suggests that American ginseng, when combined with ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), may be beneficial in treating ADHD. However, it is important to note that American Ginseng may also increase the effects of medications used to treat psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking American Ginseng if you are on any psychiatric medications. Lastly, research has shown that long-term intake of North American Ginseng has no effect on blood pressure and kidney function for 24 hours.
This is important because many individuals may be concerned about the potential side effects of taking American Ginseng for an extended period of time.
