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Ginseng's core ingredients are saponins
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Tuesday, 05 September, 2023, 14 : 00 PM [IST]
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Dr Yogesh Sharma
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For untold decades, traditional Asian medicine has regarded and utilised ginseng, a natural cure renowned for its deep therapeutic properties. There are several species of ginseng used in herbal therapy, but the most widely used are Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). The Panax genus, including Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius are the source of the powerful herbal treatment known as ginseng.
The roots and rhizomes of the ginseng plant contain several bioactive compounds. Ginseng is a remarkable botanical treasure since it contains so many medicinal compounds such as saponins, oils, phytosterols, carbohydrates, sugars, organic acids, nitrogenous compounds, amino acids and peptides, vitamins, minerals, and well-established enzymes. Ginseng's core and most effective ingredients are the renowned saponins, which are responsible for the plant's known outstanding capabilities.
Ginseng is a popular herb with many medicinal and pharmacological benefits. The bioactive ingredients of ginseng are ginsenosides. These are responsible for various pharmacological effects such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities. Ginsenoside compounds number around 40. Ginsenosides' different chemical structures affect their pharmacology and processes. Rb1, Rg1, Rg3, Re, Rd, and Rh1 are commonly studied ginsenosides. Recent scientific articles have focused on ginsenosides' molecular processes and medical uses.
The adaptogenic nature of ginseng is widely recognised as one of its most prominent attributes. Adaptogens are a class of substances that facilitate the body's ability to adjust to diverse stressors, thereby enhancing equilibrium and promoting holistic wellness.
Scientists have discovered that ginseng can help humans resolve with the mental, emotional, and environmental stresses that threaten their health and wellbeing. Ginseng's adaptogenic characteristics are what allow it to alleviate stress. One possible benefit of this intervention is that it may alter the release of hormones that contribute to feelings of tension and anxiety.
Ginseng, a natural treatment, boosts energy and vitality. This naturally occurring compound is a popular natural energy booster since it reduces weariness and lethargy. Ginseng, a popular herb, may improve cognition. Ginseng may increase memory, focus, and other mental functions.
Concentration, memory, and insight have improved in recent studies. Traditional medicine has claimed that ginseng is aphrodisiac for generations. According to ancient knowledge, this herb increases desire and sexual performance. Ginseng is known for its antioxidant qualities. These powerful antioxidants help the body fight free radicals. Antioxidants can prevent chronic diseases by protecting cells from oxidative stress. Ginseng may boost body's natural defences against sickness, according to scientists.
Among ginseng's many health benefits are its ability to reduce inflammation and cancer risk, boost athletic performance, lower blood sugar levels, and increase insulin sensitivity.
Dietary supplements, traditional medicine, energy drinks, energy-boosting snack bars, and functional food products including granola bars, chocolates, and sweets all make use of ginseng as an ingredient. It's included for both its flavour and possible health benefits to consumers. This compound is used to promote vitality, strengthen the immune system, improve memory and cognition, and maintain overall health and well-being.
The benefits of using this chemical include better energy generation, improved immunity, sharper mental faculties, and a longer, healthier life.
Himalayan Organic Korean Red Ginseng, Humming Herbs Siberian Ginseng, HealthyHey Nutrition Panax Ginseng Extract, SBL Alfalfa Tonic with Ginseng and Dr Willmar Schwabe India Ginseng MT Tablet are all well-known brands with ginseng in them.
It is also used in creams, serums, masks, medicated ointments, creams, and masks for the face, as well as plant preparations. It is thought to improve hair and help it grow in a healthy way. It is also thought to help skin look healthy and young. Fizzy Fern Indian Gooseberry & Ginseng Body Massage Oil and Plum Ginseng Gentle Rinse Shampoo are two examples of ginseng products.
It is normally safe to utilise ginseng for shorter periods of time. Consuming ginseng on a regular basis may result in headaches, inability to sleep, and intestinal problems. Ginseng and medications rarely react adversely with one another. Ginseng and the blood thinner warfarin may have an adverse interaction. Ginseng and phenelzine have the potential to have an adverse interaction, and the combination of ginseng and imatinib may cause hepatotoxicity. Lamotrigine and ginseng both have an interaction. Anxiety, trouble sleeping, changes in blood pressure, breast discomfort, vaginal bleeding, nausea or diarrhoea are additional potential side-effects of this medication. Ginseng can have an effect on the metabolism of other herbal supplements, as well as diet and prescription medicines.
Oral ginseng during pregnancy may be harmful. Panax ginseng is responsible for the development of congenital abnormalities in animals. Avoid Panax ginseng during pregnancy. Due to a lack of reliable evidence, it is not known whether or not Panax ginseng is safe to consume while nursing. Use carefully and avoid. Panax ginseng is likely unsafe in infants and children. Panax ginseng has been linked to fatal poisoning in newborns. It's not clear if it's safe in older children. Until more is known, do not use ginseng in children.
Auto-immune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions: ginseng seems to increase the activity of the immune system. It might make auto-immune diseases worse. Do not use ginseng products in any auto-immune condition. Ginseng products appear to inhibit blood coagulation in cases of excessive bleeding. Do not use ginseng formulations in haemorrhage conditions. On the first day of use, ginseng may have a modest impact on heart rhythm and blood pressure. In cases of cardiac disease, use ginseng with caution. ginseng products contain compounds (ginsenosides) that can act like oestrogen and treat hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids. Ginseng products should avoid for any condition that could be exacerbated by oestrogen exposure. Sleeplessness (insomnia) has been associated with high concentrations of ginseng. Use ginseng with caution in insomnia. Ginseng may increase the activity of an immune system that has been suppressed. This could interfere with medications that suppress the immune system, such as those administered after an organ transplant. Ginseng products are avoided if immune system is compromised.
(The author is associate professor, Department of Pharmacology, Jaipur College of Pharmacy, Jaipur, Rajasthan)
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