Common Names: Asian ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Korean ginseng, red ginseng, white ginseng, ginseng root

Scientific Name: Panax ginseng

Background

• Originating in East Asia, specifically Korea, northeastern China, and parts of eastern Russia, Asian ginseng has long been valued in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often used to support body balance and stress adaptation (as an adaptogen).

• This species of ginseng is distinct, and terms like “red ginseng” and “white ginseng” describe how the root is processed, not separate plant types.

• The root is the primary part of the plant used for health purposes.

• People use Asian ginseng for a variety of reasons, including managing stress, enhancing focus, relieving fatigue, supporting immune health, and aiding in conditions such as diabetes or anxiety.

• Among its many active components, ginsenosides—or panaxosides—are believed to be the key contributors to its health effects.

How Much Do We Know?

• While interest in Asian ginseng has grown and more studies have been conducted recently, most clinical trials still involve relatively small groups (under 200 participants) and short study durations (less than 3 months). More extensive and long-term studies are needed to confirm its effects across various conditions.

What Have We Learned?

• Limited studies suggest that Asian ginseng might benefit midlife individuals' mental functions—like improving response time and numerical reasoning—but the same has not been observed in younger people. For memory support, the benefits may only appear when combined with ginkgo.

• Preliminary research shows a potential preventive role in flu infections, though it doesn’t seem to lessen flu symptoms once contracted.

• According to a 2023 study review of over 2,400 individuals, Asian ginseng may help with general tiredness but might not be effective alone for chronic fatigue—some blended ginseng formulas showed more promise.

• A 2022 overview of several studies found improvements in certain health markers (like blood sugar and cholesterol) in people with prediabetes or diabetes. However, findings on how it impacts blood sugar control in diabetes remain uncertain.

• Some trials indicate that ginseng may support sexual function in those with erectile issues. It may also have some benefits for men with symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate.

• A number of studies agree that ginseng does not enhance sports performance.

• Though often promoted for age-related concerns, respiratory conditions, and emotional well-being, reliable data supporting these uses is still lacking.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• For short durations (up to six months), taking ginseng by mouth in standard doses appears safe for most. Still, its long-term safety is unclear, and it’s generally not recommended for young children or pregnant and breastfeeding women.

• There’s not enough solid information on whether applying Asian ginseng to the skin is safe. Some users report adverse effects like a burning sensation or skin irritation.

• Trouble sleeping is the side effect most often linked with ginseng. Rare issues reported include serious rashes, liver problems, or allergic reactions. It may also worsen autoimmune diseases and interfere with blood clotting.

• Because ginseng may lower blood sugar, people with diabetes should consult healthcare professionals before using it.

• Asian ginseng can interact with certain medications. Speak with your doctor before combining it with prescription drugs or other herbal products, since interactions can sometimes be dangerous.

• Some studies show concerns for its use during pregnancy. Animal testing identified one compound that might lead to birth defects. Talk with your doctor if you’re considering taking ginseng while pregnant or nursing.

Keep in Mind

• Take an active role in your health care. Be open with your providers about any herbs or supplements you use so they can guide you with accurate information and safe practices.

• Herbal items are regulated in various ways based on their makeup and usage. Products taken by mouth are usually sold as dietary supplements, which face fewer regulations compared to prescription drugs.

• Unlike medications, dietary supplements don’t need approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before sale. However, the FDA can act if a supplement poses health risks. It’s the manufacturer’s duty to ensure product safety and correct labeling before products reach consumers.

For More Information

• Helpful resources are available for using supplements wisely and understanding how supplements can interact with medications or interpreting scientific studies.

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Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), NIH

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Key References

• Fan S, Zhang Z, Su H, et al. Current status and ongoing studies of Panax ginseng. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 2020;132:110832.

• He M, Huang X, Shuying L, et al. Chemical and immune-related differences in white vs. red ginseng. Planta Medica. 2018;84(12-13):845-854.

• Li X, Yang M, Zhang YL, et al. Analysis of ginseng and ginseng combinations for fatigue management. Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine. 2023;29(8):468-482.

• Naseri K, Saadati S, Sadeghi A, et al. Effects of Panax ginseng on prediabetic and diabetic conditions. Nutrients. 2022;14(12):2401.

• Shin D, Yoon BI, Bang S, et al. Study on red ginseng oil for urinary symptoms in men. The World Journal of Men’s Health. 2024;42(1):229-236.

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