Panax Ginseng: Benefits, Uses & Potential Side Effects

Panax ginseng is an herbal root that is also known as Asian or Korean ginseng. It has long been used successfully in Chinese medicine for many medical conditions.

Benefits

• Some of the benefits of taking Panax ginseng may include improvements with memory, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

Side Effects

• Although Panax ginseng is generally considered safe when taken for short periods of less than 3 or 4 months, some individuals have reported trouble sleeping as the most common side effect.

Considerations

• Panax ginseng should not be used if you are pregnant or breast feeding or have a heart condition, bleeding disorder or diabetes.

Misconceptions

• Panax ginseng is generally not considered effective for improving physical performance, symptoms of depression and some of the more prevalent symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes.

Warning

• Panax ginseng should not be taken with prescription medications such as warfarin and medications taken orally for low blood sugar. It should also not be used with insulin.