 Could it hold the key to a cancer cure?
The unique characteristics of Ginseng have attracted the attention of scientists and naturopaths alike who are endeavouring to unlock its healing properties. There have been several studies exploring its potential to fight cancer – specifically, a component of Korean Ginseng has shown signs of inhibiting cancer cell proliferation in a variety of cancers including melanoma, lung cancer and colon cancer. These studies are still in their infancy, however, they have been successful in generating excitement in this field.
With a root formation that bears an uncanny resemblance to the human body, Ginseng has been used for centuries in Asian medicine as an aphrodisiac, a tonic for wellbeing and a curative. Historians believe that Ginseng was most likely first used as a source of food and it wasn’t until much later that its healing properties
were discovered.
What is it?
Ginseng refers to plants within the Panax genus of 11 species that all have fleshy roots and tend to grow in the colder areas of China, Korea and eastern Siberia.
The three main types of herbs commonly referred to as Ginseng are Panax, American and Siberian, each with significantly different compositions and consequently different treatment uses.
Panax Ginseng is native to Asia, where it is traditionally used to treat illnesses including heart conditions. More commonly referred to as Korean Ginseng, Panax has higher levels of the ginsenoside known as Rg1, which has been linked to improving immune deficiencies; and lower levels of ginsenoside Rb1, a stress-relieving ingredient.
Consequently, Panax has been known to assist in regulating the immune system, while modern studies reveal it may also be effective in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels in relation to the treatment of Type2 diabetes.
The health benefits of American Ginseng have been known to Native American Indians for generations. It is considered milder than its Asian counterpart and is largely used for common complaints such as colds and flu. This does not diminish the importance of American Ginseng in the hierarchy of herbal medicine, the focus is simply directed to its calming and stress-relieving properties.
Siberian Ginseng, or Eleutherococcus senticosus is not technically a Ginseng. The herb was widely used by Soviet athletes in the ’70s to improve performance and was labeled Siberian Ginseng when it was first sold in the US. In modern herbal medicine it is considered an adaptogen as it helps the body adapt or cope with physical and mental stress.
It is also thought to restore energy and assist in mental alertness. Studies are being carried out in Russia to determine whether Siberian Ginseng can alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy and boost the immune system against ailments such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Does it work?
Research into the potential health benefits of Ginseng indicate it may well be a ‘wonder herb’. In 2003, the University of Arizona concluded that the ginsenosides from Panax Ginseng displayed a variety of beneficial properties including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer effects that could potentially combat psychological issues, immune system problems and conditions associated with diabetes.
A Canadian study into the effects of ginsenosides on diabetics showed that when sufferers were given three grams of American Ginseng daily for 12 weeks, their blood sugar levels decreased. Research also revealed that ginsenosides can affect various enzyme systems in the liver, kidneys, heart, brain, adrenal gland and immune system. This was based on evidence that Ginseng is responsible for certain immune system reactions that can result in the stimulation of the brain, calming of the nervous system and balancing of hormone levels.
How should it be taken?
Generally all types of Ginsengs are mild, safe herbs with a recommended daily dose of one or two grams a day, or two to four 500-milligram capsules. Korean Ginseng needs to be used with caution for people with high blood pressure or cardiovascular problems and a lower dose is recommended. Ginseng teas deliver a much small dose of active compounds, so are generally safe to consume.
Unfortunately there are many bogus Ginseng products being sold which are made from parts of the plant with poor therapeutic qualities, or from completely different plant species. Look for products which specify not only the amount of dry herb equivalent but the level of active ingredient per capsule.
For more information on Ginseng and herbal medicine go to Healthnotes, one of the best online resources on natural health.
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