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The Science of Ginseng

Detailed shot of dried ginseng roots on a dark plate for natural healing and cooking.

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Is there benefit to taking Ginseng for Cognitive Health, ADHD, and Fatigue?

Ginseng, particularly Panax ginseng, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now gaining recognition in scientific research for its potential benefits in cognitive function, attention disorders, and fatigue management. Below, we explore the latest evidence supporting its use and important considerations before supplementation.

Ginseng for Cognitive Function and Brain Plasticity

Panax ginseng is typically consumed in doses of 200–400 mg daily, with 400 mg showing the most notable cognitive benefits. These dosages are based on standardized ginseng extracts containing 4–10% ginsenosides, the primary bioactive compounds.¹

Research suggests that ginsenosides may support neuroplasticity and cognitive function by:

  • Interacting with hormone receptors involved in memory and mood regulation.²
  • Crossing the blood-brain barrier to modulate neurotransmitter activity.³
  • Improving vascular health, which indirectly supports neural plasticity.³
  • Influencing gut microbiota, which affects the gut-brain axis and cognition.³

Additionally, red ginseng appears to have higher biological activity and fewer side effects than white or fresh ginseng due to its unique processing method.²

Ginseng and ADHD: A Natural Support for Attention and Focus

Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) has been investigated for its potential role in managing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) due to its effects on adrenal corticosteroids. Individuals with ADHD may have lower cortisol and DHEA levels, leading to attention difficulties and impulsivity.⁴

Two key randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have evaluated KRG’s effects on ADHD symptoms:

  1. A 12-week RCT involving 120 children (ages 6–12) with subthreshold ADHD found that a combination of KRG and omega-3 fatty acids significantly improved ADHD Rating Scale (ADHDRS) scores and attention problem subscales of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).⁵
  2. An 8-week RCT involving 70 children (ages 6–15) with ADHD symptoms showed that KRG supplementation (1g twice daily) significantly improved inattention and hyperactivity scores compared to placebo. However, salivary cortisol and DHEA levels did not change significantly, suggesting that KRG’s benefits may not be due to direct effects on these hormones.⁶

Ginseng and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex condition with no universally accepted treatment. Recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses have examined ginseng’s role in fatigue management:

  • A 2018 systematic review found modest evidence supporting ginseng’s efficacy for fatigue, with low risk of adverse effects.⁷
  • A 2023 meta-analysis concluded that ginseng significantly reduced general fatigue, particularly in chronic fatigue patients, without increasing adverse events.⁸

Potential Adverse Effects and Safety Considerations

Although generally well-tolerated, ginseng supplementation may cause side effects, particularly at high doses or with prolonged use:

  • Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea, cramps) are the most commonly reported.⁹
  • Ginseng abuse syndrome (nervousness, insomnia, hypertension) may occur at excessive doses (≥3g/day).¹⁰
  • Drug interactions: Ginseng may reduce warfarin’s anticoagulant effect, which could pose a risk for individuals on blood thinners.¹¹
  • Oxidative stress concerns: Some research suggests that ginseng may induce oxidative stress in postmenopausal women, but further studies are needed.¹²

Key Takeaways

  • Panax ginseng supports cognitive function and neuroplasticity, particularly red ginseng.
  • Korean red ginseng may improve attention and hyperactivity symptoms in children with ADHD, especially when combined with omega-3s.
  • Ginseng shows promise in reducing fatigue, particularly in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome.
  • Side effects are generally mild, but high doses may cause ginseng abuse syndrome or interact with medications.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Before incorporating ginseng or any supplement into your routine, consult with a qualified healthcare professional. If you are seeking personalized guidance on herbal supplementation, schedule a consultation with me—an integrative registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN)—to ensure you make safe and evidence-based choices.

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References

  1. Mancuso C, Santangelo R. Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius: From pharmacology to toxicology. Food Chem Toxicol. 2017;107(Pt A):362-372. doi:10.1016/j.fct.2017.06.031
  2. Li J, Zhao J, Wang X, Lin Z, Lin H, Lin Z. Ginsenoside—a promising natural active ingredient with steroidal hormone activity. Food Funct. 2024;15(4):1825-1839. doi:10.1039/d3fo05484e
  3. Shin MS, Lee Y, Cho IH, Yang HJ. Brain plasticity and ginseng. J Ginseng Res. 2024;48(3):286-297. doi:10.1016/j.jgr.2024.03.007
  4. Ko HJ, Kim I, Kim JB, et al. Effects of Korean red ginseng extract on behavior in children with symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2014;24(9):501-508. doi:10.1089/cap.2014.0013
  5. Lee J, Lee SI. Efficacy of Omega-3 and Korean Red Ginseng in Children with Subthreshold ADHD: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Atten Disord. 2021;25(14):1977-1987. doi:10.1177/1087054720951868
  6. Ko HJ, Kim I, Kim JB, et al. Effects of Korean red ginseng extract on behavior in children with symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2014;24(9):501-508. doi:10.1089/cap.2014.0013
  7. Arring NM, Millstine D, Marks LA, Nail LM. Ginseng as a Treatment for Fatigue: A Systematic Review. J Altern Complement Med. 2018;24(7):624-633. doi:10.1089/acm.2017.0361
  8. Li X, Yang M, Zhang YL, et al. Ginseng and Ginseng Herbal Formulas for Symptomatic Management of Fatigue: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Integr Complement Med. 2023;29(8):468-482. doi:10.1089/jicm.2022.0532
  9. Li X, Yang M, Zhang YL, et al. J Integr Complement Med. 2023;29(8):468-482. doi:10.1089/jicm.2022.0532
  10. Paik DJ, Lee CH. J Ginseng Res. 2015;39(1):1-8. doi:10.1016/j.jgr.2014.10.002
  11. Yuan CS, et al. Ann Intern Med. 2004;141(1):23-27. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-141-1-200407060-00010
  12. Dickman JR, Koenig RT, Ji LL. J Am Coll Nutr. 2009;28(2):135-144. doi:10.1080/07315724.2009.10719766

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