Health Benefits Of Korean Ginseng

Ginseng is an extremely popular herb, particularly in the Far East. Ginseng is a plant that grows widely in Korea because of its cool, suitable climate. The root is considered to be the most valuable part of the plant and is used extensively. However, some believe that the leaves have better therapeutic value that the roots.

The Korean ginseng health benefits are many. Korean ginseng is known for its healing powers and has achieved a place of importance in the treatment of a variety of ailments.

The herb is widely used in the treatment of various conditions and is even sold in the supplement form. A boost in immunity levels, regulation of blood sugar and blood pressure levels, enhanced mental and physical health, improved cardiovascular functioning and enhanced sexual performance are the main Korean ginseng extract benefits.

Red Korean Ginseng Benefits

The red Korean ginseng is considered to be the best variety of ginseng available in the world because of its numerous benefits. Due to the cultivation technique used and the superior quality and capability of the final produce, it is believed to be the most expensive form of ginseng available. The red Korean ginseng benefits are primarily attributed to its unmatched mineral content as well as the vitamins, essential oils, amino acids and natural enzymes that it provides. Due to this high nutritional content, it is widely known for its immunity boosting ability. The acidic polysaccharides content and antioxidant properties also help in boosting the immune system thus minimizing the risk of infection and various ailments. This herb also acts as a wonderful natural body detoxifying agent. Red Korean ginseng is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and it is therefore used in the treatment of conditions such as arthritis, instead of opting for the use of steroids. This wonder herb is also known to be beneficial in bringing down cortisol levels – the stress hormone, thus preventing conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol as well as hypertension. The polyacetylene present in Korean ginseng is known to be beneficial in the treatment of cancer. Known for its ability to calm the nervous system, red Korean ginseng is an excellent tranquilizer which has the ability to regulate heart rate as well. More information on nutrition benefits of red ginseng

Korean Ginseng Tea Benefits

Ginseng tea is an excellent body tonic, believed to be more effective than any form of medication. Since ginseng is easier to digest in the form of tea, its benefits increase manifold. Due to its antioxidant properties, it helps in regulating cholesterol levels by lowering LDL cholesterol (harmful cholesterol) levels and boosting HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels. By doing so, it minimizes the risk of cardiovascular disorders. It also helps in regulating blood sugar and blood pressure levels. A boost in energy levels through the use of fatty acids is one of the many Korean ginseng tea benefits. The tea also encourages the production of immune cells thereby increasing immunity. The regular use of ginseng tea is also believed to improve memory and thus provide some relief to those suffering from conditions such as Alzheimer’s. Ginseng tea also helps in inhibiting the growth of tumors in various forms of cancer.

Korean Panax Ginseng Benefits

Panax ginseng is the most valued variety of ginseng and hence the name ‘panax’ which is derived from Greek word panacea meaning ‘cure all’. The leaf and the light brown root of the plant are known for their amazing medicinal properties. The main Korean panax ginseng benefits include an enhanced ability of the body to balance out the various elements in the body such as blood sugar and blood pressure. Panax ginseng also helps to lower blood alcohol levels. Panax ginseng is considered to be an optimal cure for cancer as it is believed to be able to convert abnormal cancerous cells into healthy cells while prohibiting the further production of cancer cells. It enhances mental and physical alertness by improving brain function.

Nutritional Uses Of Ginseng

Men:

Korean ginseng benefits for men include an increase in the flow of blood to the penis as well as an increase in the production of the hormone testosterone. This helps in the treatment of performance issues and erectile dysfunction. Korean ginseng helps in enhancing sperm production in men suffering from a low sperm count, thus boosting the chances of fertility in men. Ginseng also helps in improving sperm motility.

Women:

During the reproductive stage of a woman’s life, ginseng is known to improve the conditions within the uterus thus ensuring that it is a haven for a developing baby. It ensures that the uterus gets a good supply of blood required to meet the needs of an embryo. It also helps in toning the uterus. An increase in the production of the hormone - estrogen is one of the most beneficial Korean ginseng benefits for women. This mainly helps in dealing with the issues that crop up at the time of menopause as a result of the decreased production of this hormone.

Energy:

Overcoming fatigue, stress and a general feeling of weakness is also a part and parcel of the benefits of Korean ginseng. The ginsenosides present in red Korean ginseng have the ability to enhance the working of the body as well as the mind by fighting weakness, helping the body deal with stress and relieving mental and physical fatigue. These ginsenosides also improve metabolism. Hence, the use of Korean ginseng for energy is becoming common among athletes as it assists in enhancing athletic performance. The use of Korean ginseng for bodybuilding is also becoming common as it encourages tissue growth and repair.

Libido, Erectile Dysfunction & Fertility

The use of Korean ginseng for libido enhancement is one of the most well-known uses of this wonderful herb. Korean ginseng is also used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. In this case, ginseng supplements can help men to achieve an erection as well as maintain an erection. This thereby provides satisfaction as well as improves the chances of conception. The use of panax ginseng and Korean ginseng for fertility is a remedy used by the Chinese for ages. Certain components present in the ginseng root help in the production of hormones needed for reproduction. However, some scientists are still not convinced of the benefits of Korean ginseng for fertility. Nevertheless, Korean ginseng’s ability to boost energy levels indirectly aids one’s ability to perform sexually. The calming effect of Korean ginseng helps in relieving stress thereby providing a better state of mind for sexual activity. It also improves blood flow through the body as well as helps the body deal with fatigue. Enhanced blood flow and minimal fatigue in turn aid the proper functioning of the various organs, including the sexual organs.

Side Effects:

In spite of the many benefits, one must be careful while using ginseng as it has a few unpleasant side effects, especially if consumed for a prolonged period of time or if consumed in high doses. It is better to avoid the use of ginseng while using other forms of medication, be it over the counter medications or prescription drugs, as a combined use could result in complications. The prolonged use of ginseng could result in sleep disorders such as insomnia. Nausea, vomiting, nose bleeds, headaches and diarrhea are other side effects of ginseng. In addition, the excessive use of ginseng may also affect blood pressure levels, leading to either high blood pressure or low blood pressure. An overdose could result in conditions such as dryness of the mouth and lips, palpitations, fatigue, edema, itchiness, irritability, blurred vision, decreased appetite and bleeding disorders. It is wise to avoid the use of ginseng while pregnant or just before a surgery. Consulting a doctor with regard to the use of ginseng is highly recommended as each individual’s body may react differently to the herb.

Submitted on January 16, 2014