Korean Red Ginseng and Other Ginsengs
There are several plants that fall under the category of Ginseng. The two best known are American ginseng and Asian ginseng, and both of these have several subtypes. In truth, these are quite separate plants, which just happen to share some common features.
Of the two the Asian variety is the more potent, with Korean Red Ginseng being the most potent variety of all.
All types of Ginseng will provide some energy boost, lower blood sugar, lower cholesterol, reduce stress, promote relaxation, benefit diabetes, and help sexual dysfunction in men. The type of ginseng makes a huge difference, with more potent Korean Red Ginseng having a more pronounced effect.
Medical Benefits of Korean Red Ginseng
There is a long history of ginseng being used for a range of medical conditions. Some of the medical advice and results of the past, going back centuries, is anecdotal. But modern science has shows that at least some of these benefits are legitimate, being brought about by the ginsenosides in the Ginseng plant.
Increased energy - People with chronic fatigue found that ginseng has some worthwhile benefit.
Increased energy with Cancer Treatment - cancer treatment are notorious for leaving the patient feeling exhausted. Ginseng helps to reduce this for those undergoing treatment. It is unclear if this still helps energy levels once the treatment is complete.
Improved cognition - This is a popular reason for taking ginseng. Studies have shown that there is some legitimacy to the claims, with people performing better in test when taking ginseng. It is unclear it the ginseng needs to be taken on a regular basis (like vitamins), or if it also works as the occasional boost (like having a cup of coffee). But regular daily consumption seems to be a good idea.
Alzheimer's - The cognition boost of Ginseng, when taken over several weeks, helped frontal lobe function in Alzheimer patients, improving interaction with other people.
Inflammation - We can suffer inflammation when injured or ill. This is usually just a reaction to the injury, but it can become chronic. Ginseng can reduce this, and help the immune system fight the underlying cause.
Flu Prevention - Ginseng seems to boost the immune system, and with the flu it improves the survival of infected lung epithelial cells.
Blood Sugar and Diabetes - Ginseng will stabilise blood sugar levels after a meal and increase insulin levels. It also seems to improve insulin resistance. This suggests it is a good complementary therapy for diabetes, though it is uncertain how it reacts with other medications.
Side Effects of Korean Red Ginseng
There can be some side effect of taking too much Ginseng. A few individuals cannot take Ginseng at all. But these reactions are rare, and usually mild.
- Headaches
- Insomnia, usually if taken too late in the day.
- Digestive problems
- Gastric problems.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Blood pressure changes
- Skin reactions.
Contraindications and Korean Red Ginseng
Ginseng should only be taken in combination with other medication when approved by a medical doctor. It can interact with blood pressure medication, some diabetes medication, heart medication, blood thinners, aspirin, and some antidepressants..
Korean Red Ginseng
The best of Korean ginseng is Korean Red Ginseng. Make this part of a healthy lifestyle, boosting energy and cognitive performance.
