Panax Ginseng

How Panax Ginseng Works - For Stress And Other Ailments

Summarized by 123 Natural Remedies; Written by Rebecca Prescott

Panax ginseng is an ancient Chinese herb that is popular both in the West and China, and for good reason. It was originally used for all manner of conditions, though it is now, in western herbalism, used for two primary issues. These are stress and aging, and their plethora of related concerns.

Whilst for many remedies this is an indicator that its’ benefits are over exaggerated, in the case of ginseng there is actually a biochemical explanation of why this may be occurring. One important consideration is that there are many types of ginseng, and panax is only one.

There is the plant known simply as Panax ginseng, which this article is about. But there are also other panax species - American ginseng (panax quinquefolium), a species found wild in China (panax pseudo-ginseng of the variety notoginseng), and Japanese ginseng (panax pseudo-ginseng of the variety japonicus). In addition, we have the botanical ‘imposter’, Siberian ginseng. Siberian ginseng actually has some great medicinal qualities, and is recommended in some cases where the original panax cannot be used - but it is not a true ginseng. Its’ botanical name is actually Eleutherococcus senticosus.

The active constituents are called triterpenoid saponins. These saponins are actually divided into two groups. One of these groups has a more stimulating effect, and the other a more sedative effect. Some plants have a stronger stimulatory effect because they have more of those stimulating saponins. Yet the other plants do have stimulating saponins, just in smaller quantities.
These active principles, the saponins, are actually what helps the body deal better with whatever is causing stress. That might be work related stress, stress from school, illness, over-exertion or strong physical training, extremes in temperature, or psychological stress.

The saponins are very similar to our own steroid hormones. Steroid hormones are involved in the fight or flight response associated with stress. It is believed that because of this similarity, panax ginseng has a regulatory effect on our hormonal system, although scientists are not sure of the exact mechanism.

Panax ginseng is a very effective herb, though there are a few instances it shouldn’t be used. However, for most people it is an excellent resource during stressful times, and can really improve the quality of life in the elderly. By exploring these issues, consumers will be more equipped to deal with the many products on the market.

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Please also check my other articles on:

Black Cohosh | Olive Leaf Extract | Naturopathic Medicine

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