February 09, 2003

By: Stacey Becker
Website: http://www.vitamins-and-health-info.com

Ginseng - why it's the most famous herb in Chinese Medicine

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There are several different types of ginseng. The three most commonly used are Asian, Siberian and Canadian. The best known is Asian Ginseng, (sometimes known as Korean), which has been used by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. The name Ginseng means ‘essence of the earth in the form of a man’, referring to the shape of the root resembling a human form. The root of the ginseng plant is used medicinally. Due to the advent of ginseng farming, it is now possible for North Americans to easily access and use it as a food or supplement to enhance health.

The benefits of ginseng include:

*aids in resistance to stress
*supports the immune system
*enhances cardiovascular functioning during exercise
*reduces hypertension
*stimulates sexual function
*aids in chronic fatigue syndrome
*regulates blood glucose
*acts as an anti-diuretic
*improves learning and memory

In the traditional Chinese medicinal practice and terminology, ginseng is known to replenish chi (energy), support the five viscera (kidneys, lungs, liver, spleen and heart), sooth the soul (mental state), increase wisdom (mental functioning), tonify the heart (from ischemia), enhance virility, and acts as an anti-aging agent.

Ginseng is a popular supplement that is widely used in North America and continues to grow in popularity. Use ginseng with caution, as it can cause symptoms due to ‘over-stimulation’, including: diarrhoea, insomnia, anxiety, increased blood pressure or heart palpitations. Care should also be given for those with high blood pressure, acute illnesses, diabetes, and for pre-menopausal or pregnant women. A standard daily dose of ginseng is 100-500 mg once or twice a day. For more information on resources, please see the link to home page.

Author Notes:

Stacey Becker contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.vitamins-and-health-info.com.  Recommending the best vitamins, minerals, herbs and weight loss products for optimum health.