Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Ginseng is the most famous Chinese herb. It is the most widely recognized plant used in traditional medicine. Various forms of ginseng have been used in medicine for more than 7000 years. Several species grow around the world, and though some are preferred for specific benefits, all are considered to have similar properties as an effective general rejuvenator.

The name panax is derived from the Greek word panacea meaning, “all healing” and the benefits of ginseng are recognized as such. Ginseng is commonly used as an adaptogen, meaning it normalizes physical functioning depending on what the individual needs (for example, it will lower high blood pressure, but raise low blood pressure).

It is also used to reduce the effects of stress, improve performance, boost energy levels, enhance memory, and stimulate the immune system. Oriental medicine has deemed ginseng a necessary element in all their best prescriptions, and regards it as prevention and a cure. It is said to remove both mental and bodily fatigue, cure pulmonary complaints, dissolve tumors and reduce the effects of age.

Ginseng is native to China, Russia, North Korea, Japan, and some areas of North America. It was first cultivated in the United States in the late 1800’s. It is difficult to grow and takes 4-6 years to become mature enough to harvest. The roots are called Jin-chen, meaning ‘like a man,’ in reference to their resemblance to the shape of the human body.

Native North Americans considered it one of their most sacred herbs and add it to many herbal formulas to make them more potent. The roots can live for over 100 years.

Ginseng contains vitamins A, B-6 and the mineral Zinc, which aids in the production of thymic hormones, necessary for the functioning of the defense system. The main active ingredients of ginseng are the more than 25 saponin triterpenoid glycosides called “ginsenosides”. These steroid-like ingredients provide the adaptogenic properties that enable ginseng to balance and counter the effects of stress. The glycosides appear to act on the adrenal glands, helping to prevent adrenal hypertrophy and excess corticosteroid production in response to physical, chemical or biological stress.

Studies done in China showed that ginsenosides also increase protein synthesis and activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. Ginseng is used to restore memory, and enhance concentration and cognitive abilities, which may be impaired by improper blood supply to the brain.

Ginseng helps to maintain excellent body functions. Siberian ginseng has been shown to increase energy, stamina, and help the body resist viral infections and environmental toxins. Research has shown specific effects that support the central nervous system, liver function, lung function and circulatory system.

Animal studies have shown that ginseng extracts stimulate the production of interferons, increase natural killer cell activity, lower cholesterol and decrease triglyceride levels. Men have used the herb to improve sexual function and remedy impotence. Ginseng is believed to increase estrogen levels in women and is used to treat menopausal symptoms.

It is also used for diabetes, radiation and chemotherapy protection, colds, chest problems, to aid in sleep, and to stimulate the appetite.

Part used: Whole root. Powdered in capsules, as an ingredient in many herbal formulas, and as a tea.

Common Use: Ginseng is one of the most popular healing herbs used today throughout the world. It increases mental and physical efficiency and resistance to stress and disease. Ginseng’s adaptogenic qualities help balance the body, depending on the individual’s needs. It is known to normalize blood pressure, increase blood circulation and aid in the prevention of heart disease.

Care: A perennial herb with a large, slow growing root. Requires a loose, rich soil, with a heavy mulch of leaves and only 20% sun.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.)

Panax ginseng American ginseng Ararliaceae Ginseng family

Parts used and where grown: Like its more familiar cousin, Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), the root of American ginseng is used medicinally. The plant grows wild in shady forests of northern and central United States as well as in parts of Canada. It is cultivated in the United States, China, and France.

In what conditions might American ginseng be supportive?infection stress

Description of Plant and Culture: Panax quinquefolius L.: A perennial slow growing plant with a large spindle-shaped fleshy root and a smooth erect stem; 1-2 feet high. Root sometimes resembling human form, spindle-shaped or forked. At the top of the stem are 3 large leaves palmately divided into 4-5 (occasionally 3-7) sharp-toothed oblong-lance-shaped leaflets. In the leaf axil grows an umbel of yellow-green, scented, flowers. June to July. Fruits 2-seeded red berries follow the blossoms. Partial shade in zone 4.

Historical or traditional use: Many Native American tribes used American ginseng. Medicinal uses ranged from digestive disorders to sexual problems.1 The Chinese began to use American ginseng after it was imported during the 1700s.2 The traditional applications in China are significantly different from those for Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng). American ginseng is considered superior for gastrointestinal problems.3

Active constituents: American ginseng contains ginsenosides, which stimulate the immune system4 and fight fatigue and stress.5 The type and ratio of ginsenosides are somewhat different in American and Asian ginseng, however it is unclear to what extent this affects their medicinal properties. A recent study of healthy volunteers found no benefit in exercise performance after one week of taking American ginseng.6 This study might have been too short to determine definitive results. Additional clinical trials are needed to determine American ginseng’s medical uses. Refer to Asian ginseng for more information.

Medicinal Properties: Demulcent, tonic, alterative, stimulant, carminative, stomachic, nervine, aphrodisiac

Biochemical Information: Arabinose, calcium, camphor, gineosides, iron, mucilage, panaxosides, resin, saponin, starch, and vitamins A, B12, and E.

No medicinal herb is more famous than Ginseng. For over 200 years wild American Ginseng has been harvested and shipped to the Orient. Today, over 95% of the American Ginseng crop (wild-harvested and cultivated) is shipped to eastern Asia. Interstate commerce of the root is regulated by the federal government. It is unethical and illegal to harvest the roots before the red berries ripen and set seed in late summer or early autumn.

In China for centuries, Ginseng was considered an almost magical drug, a cure for bodily woes. Among the Chinese healers Ginseng is regarded primarily as a “man’s herb” although it may be taken by both men and women. The female equivalent of Ginseng is a root called Dong Kwei.

The name Ginseng is derived from the Chinese word for “likeness of man” because its roots sometimes resemble a human figure. Ginseng’s genus name Panax, like the word panacea, comes from the Greek word panakeia, meaning “all-healing”. This refers to the plant’s reputation as a Chinese cure-all. Quinquefolium means five-fingered leaf.

Uses: The root is considered demulcent, mild stimulant, tonic. Research suggests it may increase mental efficiency and physical performance, aid in adapting to high or low temperatures and stress when taken over an extended period. Ginseng’s effect is called “adapatogenic”, tending to return the body to normal.

Promotes appetite, helps dyspepsia, rheumatism, headache, lumbago, sciatica, debility, colds, coughs, bronchitis, symptoms of menopause, constipation, lung troubles, cystitis.

Native Americans in some areas used a decoction of ginseng root to relieve nausea and vomiting. Several tribes used it as an ingredient in love potions and charms. May inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors.

How much should I take: Standardized extracts of American ginseng, unlike Asian ginseng, are not generally available. American ginseng can be taken in the amount of 1&endash;2 grams per day in capsule or tablet form or 3&endash;5 ml of tincture per day.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Occasional cases of insomnia or agitation are reported with American ginseng use; these conditions are more likely when caffeine-containing foods and beverages are also being consumed. Reducing intake of American ginseng or avoiding it later in the day can lessen the chances for adverse effects.

Legends, Myths and Stories: Used in China for over 5,000 years, ginseng was known to 9th century Arab physicians. Over 400 million people have been using this herb for centuries. Marco Polo wrote of this prized wonder drug and when a delegation from the King of Siam visited Louis XIV, they presented the king with a root of gintz-aen. From then on, ginseng was widely used by wealthy Europeans for exhaustion and debility. By the 18th century, it was also popular in America, especially when P. quinquefolius was found to be indigenous.

The name “panax” in the botanical name means “all-healing.” The Mandarin name for ginseng, len seng, literally means “root of man,” so named because the root resembles the shape of the human body.

It is said that the botanical name of ginseng is derived from the Greek word for panacea, because of the great reverence in which the herb is held.

Ginseng was known to Judah in the market place of Israel (Ezekiel 27:17). Trading was done in wheat, oil balm, honey, and “Pannag,” or all-healing ginseng.

Bibliography

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo Biloba Leaf)

The ginkgo is the oldest living tree species, geological records indicate this plant has been growing on earth for 150 – 200 million years. Chinese monks are credited with keeping the tree in existence, as a sacred herb. It was first brought to Europe in the 1700’s and it is now a commonly prescribed drug in France and Germany. It is one of the most well-researched herbs in the world.

In the last 30 years, more that 300 studies have given clinical evidence that ginkgo prevents and benefits many problems throughout the entire body. Ginkgo is gaining recognition as a brain tonic that enhances memory because of its positive effects on the vascular system, especially in the cerebellum. It is also used as a treatment for vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and a variety of neurological disorders and circulation problems. Ginkgo may help to counteract the effects of aging, including mental fatigue and lack of energy.

Ginkgo works by increasing blood flow to the brain and throughout the body’s network of blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the organ systems. It increases metabolism efficiency, regulates neurotransmitters, and boosts oxygen levels in the brain which uses 20% of the body’s oxygen.

Benefits of enhanced circulation in the brain include improved short and long term memory, increased reaction time and improved mental clarity. Ginkgo is often used to treat elderly persons with Alzheimer’s and other symptoms of cerebral insufficiency. Cerebral insufficiency is a general term for a collection of symptoms that include difficulties of concentration and memory, absentmindedness, confusion, lack of energy, depressive mood, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus, and headache.

Ginkgo constituents are beneficial for a variety of imbalances and deterioration in the brain and body. Standardized ginkgo extract inhibits platelet activity factor (PAF), which is a common allergen in the body. Physical stress, and poor quality food can overstimulate PAF production; in other words, blood clotting. Excessive PAF can help cause cardiovascular disease, brain damage, hearing disorders and other immune and inflammatory diseases.

Ginkgo has been used to relieve tension and anxiety and improve mental alertness, elevate mood and restore energy.

Ginkgo has two groups of active substances, flavonoids and terpene lactones, including ginkgolides A, B, and C, bilobalide, quercetin, and kaempferol. The ginkgolides have been shown to control allergic inflammation, anaphylactic shock and asthma.

Ginkgo also acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the oxidation of free radicals which are believed to contribute to premature aging and dementia. Antioxidants also protect the eyes, cardiovascular system and central nervous system.

Ginkgo may also help control the transformation of cholesterol to plaque associated with the hardening of arteries, and can relax constricted blood vessels.

The herb has been used in treatment of other circulation-related disorders such as diabetic peripheral vascular disease, Raynaud’s syndrome, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. It can also aid in the treatment of insufficient circulation and complications from stroke and skull injuries. Ginkgo’s beneficial effects on the circulatory system also can be of benefit in the treatment of eye and ear disorders.

Studies have confirmed that ginkgo increases blood flow to the retina, and can slow retinal deterioration resulting in an increase of visual acuity. In clinical tests ginkgo has improved hearing loss in the elderly. It also improves circulation in the extremities relieving cold hands and feet, swelling in the limbs and chronic arterial blockage. Among other things, ginkgo is being investigated as a potential treatment to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs, as a treatment for asthma and for toxic shock syndrome.

Parts Used: Dried leaf.

Common Use: Ginkgo has been shown to be nutritional support for mental alertness, enhanced vitality level, circulatory health and blood vessel health. Its high antioxidant activity is valuable for fighting age related conditions. All over the world, people have claimed Ginkgo to be beneficial in the fight against the gradual erosion of energy associated with aging.

Care: The ginkgo tree thrives in full sun and average soil. It is very resistant to infection and pollution and can grow up to 120 feet. The small yellow fruit that falls from the female tree has a strong rancid odor.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

An ancient Indian proverb states that everything good is found in ginger. We wouldn’t go quite that far — it’s certainly no substitute for electricity, friendship or chocolate frozen yogurt — but we have to admit, there’s quite a bit you can do with this versatile healing herb. Besides putting the zip in your stir-fry, here’s how to use ginger to treat a number of common ailments.

Should Ginger be in Your Medicine Chest? What the Leaves Say: Here are the ins and outs of using ginger tea, courtesy of our resident tea leaf reader Herbala:

Try Ginger if: Your stomach is sloshing and churning like an overstuffed washing machine. Whether you’ve got heartburn, abdominal cramps or a queasy stomach, a soothing cup of ginger is the herbalist’s stomach remedy of choice. Ginger contains compounds similar to the digestive enzymes found in your digestive tract, which may help you digest a heavy, protein-rich meal more easily. Ginger is particularly effective for motion sickness: In fact, studies show it’s even more effective than the prescription drug Dramamine. To head off motion sickness, most herbalists recommend ginger capsules, sold at any health food store. The standard dosage is 1500 milligrams, taken about 30 minutes before you hit the road, air or high seas.

You’re eating for two — but can barely keep down enough food for one. Ginger is a time-tested remedy for morning sickness; generations of expectant moms have found that a cup of ginger tea first thing in the morning can make breakfast a whole lot more appealing. If you’d prefer something cold, a glass of ginger ale also delivers the herb’s stomach-soothing compounds. (Just read the label to make sure your brand has no artificial flavorings — if it does, it probably contains little or no real ginger.)

You watch HDL and LDL the way other people watch ABC and NBC. If you’re waging your own personal war on cholesterol, here’s another weapon to add to your arsenal: Studies suggest that ginger can be useful in keeping cholesterol levels under control. Scientists still have a lot to learn about how and why ginger works, but in the meantime, you might want to try sipping a few cups of ginger tea throughout the day, in addition to exercising, watching your diet and following your doctor’s advice. If you’re concerned about cholesterol, a remedy this cheap, safe and pleasant to use is worth trying.

Cold and flu germs have declared open season, and you’ve got a target on your back. Chinese herbalists have used ginger for generations to treat colds and flu, and modern studies confirm that ginger helps kill the influenza virus and helps the immune system wage war on infection. If you feel a cold coming on, try sipping on ginger tea throughout the day.

All your bills are due on the same day — and it’s still not the worst day of the month. For many women, scraping the bottom of the checking account is a walk in the park compared to suffering with menstrual cramps. If monthly misery has you down, Herbala recommends a hot cup of ginger tea.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.