Panax Ginseng (Korean Red Ginseng)
Commonly used for
EnergyFocusImmunity
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Wellness uses
Erectile function support
This is anecdotal, and there isn't strong clinical evidence that it works for everyone.
What is it? / Overview
Panax ginseng is a studied adaptogenic herb, with evidence for modest, product-specific improvements in mental performance and physical fatigue outcomes, along with a distinct research base for erectile dysfunction and libido.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Standardized root extract (Panax ginseng, Korean red ginseng preparation)
Typical dose studied: 200–400 mg/day
Timing: Morning, with food; avoid late-day dosing due to potential stimulating effect
Different from Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus, a different plant entirely) and American ginseng — 'ginseng' covers several distinct herbs with different research bases; look for Panax ginseng specifically.
How well does it work? / Evidence
~ Moderate evidence
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Primary hypertension / High blood pressure; Atrial fibrillation / Atrial flutter; Generalized anxiety disorder
Interacts with: Blood thinners (Warfarin); Diabetes medications; MAOIs (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors); Stimulants
Already taking it? Evidence for optimal use patterns (continuous vs. cyclic dosing) is more tradition-based than rigorously studied.
Research & references
Sung WS et al. (2020). Efficacy of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) for middle-aged and moderate level of chronic fatigue patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Complement Ther Med. Lee HW et al. (2021). Ginseng for erectile dysfunction. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Reay JL et al. (2006). Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasks. J Psychopharmacol.
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