Of all the medicinal herbs known to man, ginseng is probably the most legendary of all – and for good reason: its health benefits are simply extraordinary. In fact, it’s so good for you that the Chinese emperors once valued it more than gold itself.
Below you’ll find 12 health benefits of this amazing herb.
The polysaccharides and oligopeptides in American ginseng help to decrease oxidative stress, enhance physical activity, fight fatigue, and boost energy, especially in those who are suffering from cancer.
2. Improves Cognitive Ability
Ginseng stimulates cognitive abilities and neural activity that can be tricky to achieve as we age. Furthermore, the antioxidants present in it help to prevent the accumulation of plaque and free radicals in the brain, effectively preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders.
3. Reduces Alcohol Toxicity
Ginseng reduces alcohol toxicity in the brain by increasing the production of enzymes that help to break down alcohol. Therefore, it has a really positive effect against acute alcohol intoxication.
Asian ginseng affects the body’s nervous system in a number of ways, including boosting mood and energy levels. Furthermore, the adaptogens found within ginseng have been found to alter the hormonal levels of the body, which can help to treat chronic stress.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Ginsenosides in Korean red ginseng has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and increase enzymatic activity. This can help to reduce the inflammation of nerves and improve the motor function recovery after a spinal cord injury.
6. Treat Menstrual Discomfort
As a soothing and anti-inflammatory substance, ginseng is often given to women suffering from extreme menstrual discomfort and cramps. It can help to decrease mood swings, anxiety, depression, hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, weight gain, and hair thinning.
Ginseng’s anti-allergic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties work as a defense mechanism against various bacterial and microbial infections. In fact, this herb enhances the effect of vaccinations against diseases such as hepatitis C, rotavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza.
8. Reduce Fatigue
Siberian ginseng has vitality-boosting and fatigue-fighting properties. It helps to decrease pain, which is one of the main symptoms of fibromyalgia. Furthermore, it reduces inflammation and stabilizes the effect of inflammatory cytokines after chemotherapy in children.
9. Weight Loss
The powerful chemicals present in ginseng help to suppress appetite, boost metabolism, and burn fat. When dried or powdered ginseng is consumed, it can quickly suppress the hunger hormones from triggering cravings, helping you to lose weight.
Ginseng, due to a collective effect of antioxidant, apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and angiogenic properties, shows anticancer properties. According to some research, the most promising oncological area for ginseng is colorectal cancer – research has shown a decrease in colon cancer spread and symptoms with the regular inclusion of ginseng in one’s diet. Early research on other types of cancer such as skin, breast, lung, prostate, and liver has shown anti-tumor properties.
11. Improves Hair Health
One of the natural carbohydrates found in ginseng has been directly linked to the prevention of alopecia and male pattern baldness. Applying ginseng salves or consuming this spice directly can improve the health of hair follicles, prevent dandruff, and reduce hair loss.
12. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
The glucoregulatory properties of this herb help to decrease blood sugar levels in type-2 diabetes patients. Furthermore, the ginsenosides in ginseng affect the insulin production and improve insulin resistance in the body.
Source: organicfacts
Images: depositphotos