In the previous article, we discussed the most powerful and versatile herb called Lobelia. This herb gives promising effects if you are suffering from respiratory disorders, depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD), and even drug addiction. Now, let’s talk about the health benefits of Ginseng. But before that, we should tackle its history first to know how it was introduced.
History:
Shen-Nung Pharmacopoeia is a Chinese text written in 196 AD, that introduced the use of ginseng as a medicinal herb. Li Shizhen described ginseng as a “superior tonic”.
Ginseng has been proving its health benefits for centuries, especially in traditional Chinese medicine. It has three variations: fresh, white or red. It is a slow-growing plant that can be harvested from 4 to 6 years. Fresh ginseng can be harvested before 4 years; white ginseng can be harvested between 4-6 years; red ginseng can be harvested after 6 or more years.
Here are the proven health benefits of ginseng:
-
Ginseng is an effective antioxidant that can reduce inflammation.
Based on the studies done, ginseng has shown promising results in humans. It is both high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers summed up that red ginseng has the ability to reduce oxidative stress.
-
Ginseng has benefits to brain function. It improves memory, mood, and behavior.
Different studies have shown that ginseng has promising effects on mental functions, calmness, and mood, not only for healthy people but for those with Alzheimer’s disease.
-
Ginseng can improve erectile dysfunction (ED) in men.
Studies have shown that ginseng can be an alternative for improving the problem of erectile dysfunction in men. It has compounds that can defend the blood vessels and tissues in the penis from oxidative stress. Some compounds present in ginseng can restore its normal function.
-
Ginseng can strengthen the immune system
Studies have shown promising effects on the immune system, especially for cancer patients. The research concluded that people undergoing curative surgery and using ginseng have a 35% chance of living disease-free up to 5 years. Ginseng can also give up to a 38% higher survival rate in comparison to those who don’t take ginseng.
Another study also shows that ginseng can boost the effects of certain vaccinations against diseases.
-
Ginseng has promising effects on reducing the risk of cancers.
Ginsenosides that are present in ginseng have the ability to reduce inflammation and protect from antioxidants. This compound can prevent any abnormal production and growth of cells. These benefits could also help to reduce the risk of certain kinds of cancers.
-
Ginseng can help fight fatigue and increase energy levels.
Certain components of ginseng like oligopeptides and polysaccharides have the ability to reduce oxidative stress and lead to producing high energy in cells. Studies demonstrated that ginseng can also not only reduce fatigue but can improve physical activity.
-
Ginseng has a promising effect on lowering blood sugar.
Whether or not you have diabetes, you can benefit from using ginseng. This is particularly the case with the fermented red ginseng, which can control blood glucose in people. It shows improvements in pancreatic cell function, and improves insulin production and the uptake of blood sugar in tissues.
How To Grow Ginseng
Growing ginseng requires patience. It’s a hearty plant that will grow successfully upon following the tips that are shown below:
Tips:
- Ginseng will grow in a warm, moist environment. It’s hard for this kind of plant to grow in colder areas.
- It will grow easily if you install a greenhouse or build a growing room in your home.
- It can grow indoors when you use containers with reservoirs, placed in direct sunlight.
- Seeds should be sown in the autumn at a depth of about 1 ½ inches, while roots should be planted under 3 inches of soil. This should be done carefully when planted in early spring.
- It should be away from weeds to avoid competition that prevents it from growing.
- Ginseng can be simulated in raised beds covered with netting.
- Your growing ginseng should be watered every day and applying fertilizer regularly is very important.
The Bottom Line:
Based on numerous studies conducted, ginseng has shown promising effects on health. It can boost the immune system, brain function and energy levels, and help men with erectile dysfunction. Its therapeutic effects can really help manage the problems that are shown above. Studies show that there are major active components of ginseng. These are triterpene glycosides or known as ginsenosides.
Now that the health benefits of ginseng have been explained, let’s move on to the importance of juniper. Let’s get some information about how it helps with digestion problems, urinary tract infections(UTIs), and kidney and bladder stones.