Siberian Ginseng has been used for centuries and is prized for its ability to restore energy and enhance your overall health as well as improve memory. This herb is also valued as an adaptogen which can help restore balance in your body during stressful situations. It is been extensively used in both China and Russia for its overall health abilities and it’s ability to boost the immune system and increased stamina.
Many studies have been done on this herb which have proven its usefulness. A 3-month study of middle-aged subjects showed significant memory improvement between those who took Ginseng and those who took a placebo. Another study showed improvements in functions of the immune system for those who took Siberian ginseng extract. Yet another study on elderly patients showed that taking the herb improved the quality of life in areas of mental as well as social function. You can get this herb in a powder, capsule or tea and all of these are made from the root of the plant. This herb has been much publicized and it’s important to note that there is a wide variety in the quality of supplements made with this herb. As with any herb, he sure to purchase it from a reputable source.
It is usually recommended, that this herb be taken in cycles – used for a few months and then take a month off or so. You’ll want to check with your health care provider to come up with a schedule that is right for you. If you are taking a tincture you want to take one half to 1 teaspoon two or three times a day. The dried root should be 500 to 3000 mg a day. For a standardized extract, the dosage is 100 to 200 mg twice a day.
Although typically safe, this herb should not be taken without the instruction of a physician and should be avoided by those with high blood pressure, pregnant women or anyone with obstructive sleep apnea. Some side effects can include high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, headache, mental confusion, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and insomnia. This herb may interact with the drugs Digoxin and any type of sedative used to treat insomnia.
Siberian ginseng should not be confused with American and Asian ginseng as they belong to different plant species and have different effects.