Definition
Take Ginseng
How to Do It
Ginseng root can be eaten raw, or lightly steam to soften it.
It can also be stewed in water to make a tea.
Ginseng can be added to recipes.
The extract can be found in powder, tablet, capsule and oil forms.
Typically 1–2 grams of raw ginseng root or 200–400 mg of extract per day are suggested.
Benefits
- Reduce skin conditions such as eczema[1]
- Support gut health[2]
- May benefit brain function[2,3]
- Reduces fatigue[4]
- May treat erectile dysfunction[3,5]
- Boost the immune system[6]
- Reduce cancer risk[2,3,7,8]
- Control diabetes[4,9]
Why it works
- Anti-inflammatory[2,8]
- Antioxidant[2,3]
- Assist in the uptake of blood sugar by cells[4]
- Promote the production of nitric oxide[5]
- Improve pancreatic cell function and boost insulin production[9]
Suggested Frequency
Daily
Supporting Studies and Articles
Side Effects
- If diabetic, monitor blood sugar levels as they could drop
- May interact with blood thinning medication
Gurus/Celebrities/Doing it
Lindsay Lohan
Anna Kendrick
Kimora Lee Simmons
Audrina Patridge
Suggested Time of Day
Better taken in the morning or before work because it gives you energy.
Notes
- The most popular varieties of this herb are the American and the Asian Ginseng.
- The American Ginseng is believed to have relaxing properties, whilst the Asian Ginseng is more invigorating.
- Ginseng may lose effectiveness over time. Take in 2 - 3 week cycles with 1 - 2 weeks break in between.
