To remember :
- Ginseng is an ancient plant used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
- Ginseng is an adaptogenic plant because it has the power to resist multiple stress factors.
- Ginseng is a medicinal plant with multiple benefits: tonic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-stress.
- Ginsenosides are the main active compounds in Ginseng that give it its natural medicinal properties.
What is Ginseng?
Definition of Ginseng
Ginseng is a medicinal plant known as an adaptogen . This means that it has the power to resist multiple stress factors in order to survive in a hostile environment. Thus, this adaptogenic plant would increase the body's resistance capacities against the various attacks to which it is subject.
The origin of Ginseng
Ginseng, with its Latin name Panax ginseng, belongs to the Araliaceae family. The term Panax comes from the Greek "panacos" which means " remedy that cures all " and the term ginseng comes from the Mandarin which means " man root ", due to the human shape of its root. Discovered several thousand years ago, this adaptogenic plant is native to Northeast Asia and used by traditional Chinese medicine to cure ailments, tone the 5 organs of our body (heart, lung, liver, kidney and spleen) and calm the mind. For a decade now, and in parallel with the popularization of herbal medicine, it has become known and coveted by the Western world for its miraculous virtues.
The composition of Ginseng
Today, ginseng is one of the most studied medicinal plants worldwide for its many benefits. Researchers have since established the mysterious composition of this ancient medicinal plant, including its nutritional components and bioactive substances.
The “golden root” contains many essential micronutrients such as vitamins C, E and B, numerous minerals (manganese, copper, iron, potassium, calcium, zinc and phosphorus) and amino acids. Generally, polysaccharides, sugars, represent 40% of the total weight of the plant.
Approximately 300 active phytochemical compounds called ginsenosides are concentrated in the root. These main active components give it its natural medicinal properties. These molecules belong to the saponin family, considered antioxidant molecules that fight oxidative stress and cellular aging.
The benefits and virtues of Ginseng
Ginsenosides are active substances known for their numerous antioxidant, neuroprotective, toning and immune- stimulating properties . Studies have also shown Ginseng's ability to treat sexual dysfunction and contribute to blood sugar control in people suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Ginseng and fatigue
The body can sometimes be put under strain and suffer from fatigue , a drop in morale and even muscle pain. Ginseng, a natural tonic with many virtues, will relieve these symptoms and help restore energy and vitality. This medicinal plant is also highly recommended for athletes looking for better recovery after intense physical exertion.
Ginseng and cognitive performance
One of Ginseng's most remarkable powers is its beneficial effect on cognitive performance. Human studies show that ginsenosides, with adaptogenic properties, help improve memory, learning abilities, alertness, and concentration.
Ginseng supports sexual health
Ginseng root is not only a tonic, it is also a powerful natural aphrodisiac. This adaptogenic plant is a valuable ally associated with improvements in sexual performance in both men and women. Ginseng helps combat erectile dysfunction thanks to its vasodilatory properties and promotes sperm motility. In women, this adaptogenic plant with multiple benefits improves libido and contributes to the balance of sex hormone levels.
Ginseng and anxiety
Beyond its benefits for the body, the adaptogenic properties of Ginseng root allow it to help the body regulate the response to stress and promote psychological balance, particularly in cases of chronic stress , anxiety or episodes of depression . Numerous clinical studies have shown that ginsenosides, the main active substances in Ginseng, have anti-stress activity by reducing the level of cortisol , the stress hormone, while stimulating the release of dopamine called the happiness hormone.
Ginseng and the immune system
Ginseng is considered a true ally of the immune system . Indeed, the ginsenosides it contains have anti-inflammatory properties , including the ability to stimulate phagocytic activity and the production of T lymphocytes, components of the immune system. These functions allow the body to better defend itself against infections.
Indications and dosage of Ginseng
Ginseng intake is contraindicated in children and adolescents under 18 years of age, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women due to a lack of studies. In addition, people suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease should seek medical advice before supplementing with ginseng. People suffering from sleep disorders or nervous disorders should use ginseng with caution. Thus, it is best to take ginseng in the morning to avoid insomnia.
The World Health Organization recommends a daily dose of 0.5 to 2 g of dried roots. Since herbal products containing ginseng are usually standardized to contain 7% ginsenosides, it is recommended to limit yourself to a dose of 200 mg, one to three times a day.
In fact, when consumed in excess, its powerful tonic properties can lead to nervousness, insomnia, irritability, palpitations and increased blood pressure.
Bring Ginseng to your body with DIJO
At DIJO, we are committed to supporting you in your wellness care routines. That's why we developed Immunity Boost , a true ally of the immune system composed of flavonoids with prebiotic effects that contribute to maintaining your defense system and your energy. Prebiotics are the food of good bacteria, called probiotics , naturally present in our body.
Additionally, thanks to its optimal concentration of guarana, ginseng, vitamin C, and vitamin D3 from lichen, our Energy and Immunity Focus helps maintain good joint, bone, and muscle health, reduce mental fatigue, and strengthen natural defenses. This treatment offers you a natural approach to your overall well-being.
This treatment should be taken as part of a balanced lifestyle in order to obtain deep and lasting effects.
Sources :
[1] Kiefer, D., & Pantuso, T. (2003). Panax ginseng. American family physician , 68 (8), 1539-1542.
[2] Im, D.S. (2020). Pro-resolving effect of ginsenosides as an anti-inflammatory mechanism of Panax ginseng. Biomolecules , 10 (3), 444.
[3] Dang, H., Chen, Y., Liu, X., Wang, Q., Wang, L., Jia, W., & Wang, Y. (2009). Antidepressant effects of ginseng total saponins in the forced swimming test and chronic mild stress models of depression. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry , 33 (8), 1417-1424.
[4] Oh, KJ, Chae, MJ, Lee, HS, Hong, HD, & Park, K. (2010). Effects of Korean red ginseng on sexual arousal in menopausal women: placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover clinical study. The journal of sexual medicine , 7 (4_Part_1), 1469-1477.
[5] Bell L, Whyte A, Duysburgh C, Marzorati M, Van den Abbeele P, Le Cozannet R, Fança-Berthon P, Fromentin E, Williams C. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial investigating the acute and chronic benefits of American Ginseng (Cereboost®) on mood and cognition in healthy young adults, including in vitro investigation of gut microbiota changes as a possible mechanism of action. Eur J Nutr. 2022 Feb;61(1):413-428. doi:10.1007/s00394-021-02654-5. Epub 2021 Aug 15. PMID: 34396468; PMCID: PMC8783888.
