Ginseng
Source, diagnostic characters, constituents and uses
Objectives
At the end of this lecture, student will be able to
• Source, diagnostic characters, constituents and uses of Ginseng
Ginseng
Ginseng, known for centuries in traditional medicine for its remarkable health benefits, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Panax genus within the Araliaceae family.
Its scientific name, Panax ginseng, is derived from the Greek word “panacea,” reflecting its reputation as a cure-all.
Synonym
• Ninjin, Pannag, Panax
Source
• Dried root of various species of Panax, P. ginseng (Korean), P. japonica (Japanese), P. notoginseng (Chinese) and P. quinquefolium (American)
Macroscopy
• Tuberous corpulent roots
• Yellowish brown, white or red
• Translucent
• Stem scars
Constituents
• Saponin glycosides
– Ginsenosides – aglycone -dammarol
– Panaxosides– aglycone –oleanolic acid
• Panaxosides – oleanolic acid, panaxadiol, panaxatriol
• Chikusetsu saponin
Uses
• Immunomodulatory agent
• Increases natural resistance, helps to overcome illness and exhaustion
• Aphrodisiac
• Used in adrenal and thyroid dysfunction
• Both stimulant and sedative
• Olden days – in giddiness, prolonging life, in diabetes, demulcent, gastritis, anemia
• Long term use leads to poisoning as that of corticosteroids
Summary
• Dried root of various species of Panax, P. ginseng (Korean), P. japonica (Japanese), P. notoginseng (Chinese) and P. quinquefolium (American), Saponin glycosides – Ginsenosides, Panaxosides – Immunomodulatory
FAQs about Ginseng
- Is ginseng safe for long-term use? While ginseng is generally safe when used as directed, long-term use may lead to tolerance or dependence in some individuals. It’s advisable to take periodic breaks from ginseng supplementation to prevent potential side effects.
- Can ginseng help with erectile dysfunction? Ginseng has been traditionally used to improve sexual function and libido in both men and women. Some studies suggest that it may have a modest benefit in treating erectile dysfunction, but more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
- What is the recommended dosage of ginseng? Dosage recommendations for ginseng vary depending on factors such as age, health status, and the specific product used. It’s best to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
- Does ginseng interact with medications? Ginseng may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and antidepressants. If you’re taking prescription drugs, it’s essential to consult your doctor before adding ginseng supplements to your regimen.
- Are there any contraindications for ginseng use? Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, or hormone-sensitive cancers, should exercise caution when using ginseng supplements. It’s advisable to seek medical advice before starting ginseng supplementation, especially if you have underlying health concerns.
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