Nutrition

Benefits of Ginseng in the Body

By Eloísa Carmona - 2020-12-28T12:53:50Z
Ginseng has been popular as a dietary supplement, but beyond capsules, you can also take it naturally, for example in tea, and enjoy its benefits just the same.Somewhat similar to ginger, ginseng is the root of plants from the genus Panax, the most cultivated being American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), typically characterized by the presence of ginsenosides and gintonin, which are responsible for its medicinal properties.What is Ginseng Used ForAmerican and Asian ginseng vary in their concentration of active compounds and their effects on the body, but it is believed that American ginseng acts as a relaxing agent, while the Asian variety has a invigorating effect.Among the properties of ginseng, we can mention the following:Antioxidant that may reduce inflammation. Some studies have shown that ginseng extracts and ginsenoside compounds could inhibit inflammation and increase the antioxidant capacity of cells. May benefit brain function. Ginseng could help improve brain functions such as memory, behavior, and mood, as some studies have shown that components like ginsenosides and compound K could protect the brain against damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, other studies found positive effects on brain function and behavior in people with Alzheimer's disease.May stimulate the immune system. Some studies exploring its effects on the immune system have focused on cancer patients undergoing surgery or chemotherapy treatment.Although several studies show improvements in immune system markers in cancer patients and ginseng extract has been studied to enhance the effect of vaccines against diseases like influenza, more research is needed to demonstrate its efficacy in increasing resistance to infections in healthy individuals.May combat fatigue and increase energy levels. Ginseng may help combat fatigue and improve physical activity by reducing oxidative damage and increasing energy production in cells.Ginseng TeaThe ginseng root can be consumed in many ways, either raw or steamed to soften it. The easiest and most common way is to make ginseng tea; simply add hot water to freshly cut ginseng and let it steep for several minutes; you can sweeten it with honey if desired.It can also be added to soup recipes, for example. As for the extract, it can be found in powder, tablet, capsule, and oil form, and the most important thing is to look for a standard one that contains 2 to 3% total ginsenosides and take it before meals to increase absorption and gain all the benefits.