Go to page content
Aaron Sta Maria
Written by Aaron Sta Maria

Reviewed by Dr Jessica Gunawan

5 Benefits of American Ginseng that Will Make You Fall in Love with This Ancient Remedy

Published | 4 min read

American ginseng has been served as a remedy for centuries. Discover some of the medicinal herb’s top benefits in this article.

American ginseng root and slices displayed on a bamboo mat

Ginseng is a powerful herb that has been widely consumed worldwide for centuries, especially in Asia-Pacific countries, thanks to its superb benefits for one’s health. There are many different species of ginseng across the world, but one of the most used is American ginseng.

The discovery of American ginseng (which bears a close resemblance to Asian ginseng) by a Jesuit priest named Joseph Lafitau sparked a lucrative trade between North America and China. It spanned more than three centuries. Commonly known as American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), many Native American tribes used this medicinal herb to treat various health disorders and to boost sexual performance.

This herb typically grows wild in shady and hilly forests of eastern United States (U.S.) and south-eastern Canada. However, this herb has become a threatened species in certain parts of the U.S. due to overexploitation. Today, most of the root found commercially is cultivated and available in various forms. Here are five benefits of using American ginseng as a herbal remedy or a health supplement. 

It Can Treat Respiratory Tract Infections

An Asian woman holds a bowl of soup, looks into the distance happily
The consumption of a herbal formulation containing American ginseng effectively alleviates many respiratory infections.

American ginseng works effectively against bacterial infections by inhibiting the production of inflammatory proteins in immune cells and activating phagocytes — a type of white blood cell — and natural killer cells.  

It also stops the formation of new biofilm — microorganisms that form an attachment to a surface by secreting a slimy, glue-like substance — and aids the dissolution of a mature biofilm. These functions suggest that this root could help relieve the symptoms of and reduce a person’s risk of a common cold or flu. It also supports the belief that the herb can also effectively prevent or treat other respiratory infections. 

It Can Strengthen the Immune System 

American ginseng is less stimulating than Asian ginseng. Therefore, it can enhance the immune system without exposing highly distressed people to excessive mental stimulation. 

In addition, American ginseng is also found to be a cooling herb. Those who have chronic stress can consume a Yin tonic to strengthen the immune system. This drink is also beneficial for people with excess nervous energy, high blood pressure or prone to having ulcers. 

It Can Alleviate Cancer-Related Fatigue 

High-dose consumption of American ginseng — 1,000 mg per day to 2,000 mg per day — effectively treats fatigue due to cancer or chemotherapy. These findings came from a clinical trial that involved people who suffered from a variety of cancers. 

It shows that 25% of those who consumed a powdered ginseng capsule for eight weeks reported feeling less fatigued. 30% of them felt more satisfied with their treatment. 

It Can Help to Regulate Blood Sugar Levels  

A senior couple jog together in a park happily
Regular use of American ginseng can help maintain blood sugar levels and improve your quality of life.

A study shows that the use of American ginseng after eating a carbohydrate-rich meal is extremely effective in regulating the blood sugar levels of healthy people and people with type-2 diabetes. 

Because of this, experts are of the notion that it should be considered adjunctive therapy in managing type-2 diabetes. The most convenient way to use American ginseng is to take it in capsule form

It Can Improve Brain Function

A clinical trial result also shows that the use of this herb is effective in enhancing cognitive function. This is based on the results of a Corsi Block-Tapping task — a psychological test used to assess short-term cognitive working memory. It showed that the cognitive performances of each trial participant improved after they consumed different doses of American ginseng extract. 

If you wish to consume it as a herbal soup, you need to boil it for up to 1.5 hours. Ensure that you avoid boiling American ginseng in containers made of iron or aluminium. It could potentially cause a chemical interaction. Instead, steep the herb in containers made from ceramic, clay, glass, or stainless steel.

American ginseng is effective in treating or managing different health disorders. It is also widely available in various forms. Therefore you should consider it as a herbal remedy or a health supplement. Remember to adhere to the recommendations and health warnings on the label to prevent side effects or interactions. 

References

  1. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research. 2019. A review of Ginseng species in different regions as a multipurpose herb in traditional Chinese medicine, modern herbology and pharmacological science. [Accessed 21 July 2021]
  2. ENCYCLOPEDIA.COM. 2018. Ginseng, American.[Accessed 2 July 2021]
  3. US National Library of Medicine. 2020. Ginseng alleviates microbial infections of the respiratory tract: a review. [Accessed 2 July 2021]
  4. PubMed. 2010. Effects of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) on neurocognitive function: an acute, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. [Accessed 2 July 2021]
  5. MEDPAGE TODAY. 2007. ASCO: American Ginseng May Ease Cancer-Related Fatigue. [Accessed 2 July 2021]

Share this article on

Was This Article Useful to You?

Want more healthy tips?

Get All Things Health in your mailbox today!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Related Articles

How Traditional Chinese Medicine Helps You During Flu Season
Wellness & Nutrition
September 22, 2023 | 3 min read

How Traditional Chinese Medicine Helps You During Flu Season

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the flu results from external pathogens, such as wind, cold, and heat, invading the body. If your body’s natural defences, or wei qi, are not strong enough, it is likely that you cannot escape flu season unscathed. Read on to learn about flu in TCM and how TCM practices […]

Read More
A woman adding a spoon of oat flakes to a clear bowl
Wellness & Nutrition
November 30, 2022 | 5 min read

Why Overnight Oats Are Great for Weight Loss

A diet with oats for weight loss is a popular trend. Find the best ways to prepare healthy overnight breakfast oats to lose the extra kilos.

Read More
Yunzhi mushroom benefits
Wellness & Nutrition
July 19, 2024 | 3 min read

Yunzhi Mushroom Benefits for Health 

Beyond its culinary appeal, Yunzhi mushrooms can contribute to health and wellness. From boosting the immune system to potentially fighting cancer, this article sheds light on how Yunzhi mushrooms can be your next natural remedy.

Read More

The contents of the All Things Health website are for informational and educational purposes only.
Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.