Ginseng ─ how often have you heard of this ingredient? If you are into healthy living, I am sure this word is not a stranger. But not many know how exactly ginseng works. Yes, it is good for our health.
Ginseng is a nutritious perennial plant commonly found in North America and eastern Asia. It is basically the root of the plant that possesses medicinal value. Being rich in amino acid, minerals, B vitamins, Vitamin C and Vitamin E, the dried ginseng root is used as powder and capsules. Ginseng contains many active substances, the most important being ginsenosides or panaxosides. Ginseng and its products have been used in herbal and traditional medicines since ancient times to improve people’s health and overcome illness. It is considered as an adaptogen, a substance that enables the body to restore itself to health. It has been used in the treatment of several health problems like infections, hair loss, stress, erectile dysfunction in men, and even cancer.
But it also has a number of side effects! Now, did that come as a surprise? But isn’t that the fact of life? Everything has pros and cons. As does ginseng!
Despite its several health benefits, ginseng is not without its side effects when taken in large doses. Here are some of the side effects that can be caused by the over consumption of ginseng:
The most commonly experienced side effects of ginseng include sleep disorder or insomnia, headaches, nausea, and gastrointestinal disorders. These side effects are not serious, but can definitely cause a lot of discomfort.
Ginseng increases the body’s heart rate and blood pressure level, which can worsen some preexisting heart conditions. People with heart problems or high blood pressure level or past heart attack history should not consume ginseng without consulting their physician.
Ginseng is not safe for children and infants. Using it during pregnancy can even lead to miscarriage and birth defects. Breast feeding women should also avoid it as it may cause poisoning in babies.
Ginseng can make the blood sugar level in the body drop drastically. Diabetic patients who are under medication should not use ginseng as it may lead excessive drop in the body’s blood sugar level and cause several adverse effects.
High doses of ginseng can cause inflammation of blood vessels in the brain, which may result in strokes, fever, headaches, etc.
Ginseng inhibits blood clotting because it acts as a blood thinner or anti-coagulant. It can increase the risk of bleeding issues. It should be avoided before surgeries as it may lead to post surgery bleeding problems.Those who have blood clotting or bleeding disorder should consult their physician before consuming ginseng.
People who are allergic to ginseng or its plant should avoid it as allergic reactions may cause shortness of breath, itching, rashes etc. Severe allergic reactions can be fatal. So, be cautious if you are allergic to this herb.
High doses of ginseng can affect neurotransmitters in the body. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that carry messages from the nerve cells to other cells. Usage of ginseng with antipsychotic drugs can alter the levels of neurotransmitters in people with schizophrenia or other mental disorder.
The effect of ginseng on blood pressure is debatable as it could result in either fall of blood pressure or a rise in blood pressure level. People suffering from blood pressure problems should consult their physician before using it to avoid any adverse effects.
The prolonged use of ginseng can result in bleeding disorder, edema, irregular heartbeat or palpitation, vision issues, itchiness and dryness of mouth and lips.
Ginseng is a treasure trove of health. And this article is not an effort to scare you away from using it! All we want is that you be aware of all that you may experience with ginseng consumption. It is important to remember that consuming this herb in moderate quantities does more good than harm. It is only when we start ‘binging’ on it that it can lead to side effects. So be mindful about ginseng benefits and side effects and keep enjoying the goodness of this herb for years to come!
Do you use ginseng supplements? Have you noticed any other ginseng side effects? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.