Ginseng is a plant whose root has many medicinal uses.
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What is ginseng?
The properties and benefits of ginseng have been known for centuries . This medicinal plant has grown wild mainly in East Asia and North America in a traditional way, and the people who lived there learned to take advantage of its benefits.
In fact, the varieties that are classified according to this term are different, but the true ginseng belongs to the genus Panax , which in Greek means “heals everything”. Thus, the most prominent varieties are American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng).
Ginseng is always a small, slow-growing plant with very fleshy roots. This is the most interesting part of the plant, and in fact it is where the compounds with the greatest pharmacological potential can be found in greater concentration: ginsenosides and gintonin.
These substances continue to be studied to better understand the scope of their potential clinical use, but they are not the only ones that provide the properties and benefits of ginseng. Polyacetylenes, polyphenolic compounds and acid polysaccharides should also be mentioned.
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Ginseng: 12 properties and benefits of this medicinal plant
The attributions made to ginseng as a medicinal plant are many . Already the Native Americans used its root as a stimulant and headache remedy, as well as for infertility, indigestion and fever.
However, below are the properties and benefits of ginseng that are accurately known as a medicinal plant. All the most remarkable that is known can be read in the following points.
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1. It has antioxidant properties
Many phytochemicals present in ginseng have antioxidant properties . These are compounds that combat free radicals, which cause oxidation and prevent proper cell function.
2. Boost brain function
Ginseng has been noted to have nootropic properties . Different cognitive abilities can be seen increased with the consumption of ginseng, such as memory, concentration and attention. It seems that it improves the activation of brain metabolism.
3. Activates the immune system
Ginseng is capable of greatly benefiting the immune system . It seems that these properties can help the body to be in a better condition to fight different conditions, from colds to cancer (this does not mean that it cures these conditions)
4. It has anti-inflammatory properties
Ginseng stands out for its anti-inflammatory properties . It is recommended for those who have inflammation problems such as those suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatism, but it also combats internal inflammation processes in the body that affect the organs.
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5. Fight fatigue
It is widely known that this plant has the ability to stimulate the nervous system . Consuming ginseng allows you to increase energy levels, and can be a good natural remedy to treat tiredness and fatigue.
6. It is an aphrodisiac
The aphrodisiac properties of ginseng are among the most popular of this plant . These properties have been observed to benefit both men and women, being especially useful in men to treat erectile dysfunction.
7. Regulates blood sugar levels
Taking infusions of this plant can help diabetics . It has been observed that it can increase the production of insulin, which in turn causes the absorption of sugar in the blood to be more significant than in normal conditions.
8. Reduce stress
Ginseng is a plant that has anti-stress properties . It can therefore be used for the treatment of disorders induced by stress and anxiety. It represents a magnificent natural alternative to lower tension through a natural remedy that many people use.
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9. Helps lose weight
Among the most surprising properties of ginseng is the regulation of appetite . Without a doubt, one of the benefits that may interest more people is that there are also studies that indicate that it increases metabolism.
10. Improves lung function
Benefits of ginseng in lung function are associated for different reasons . It has been shown to stop the growth of cystic fibrosis, has antibacterial properties in the lungs, and helps people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
11. Relieves symptoms of menopause
Women experiencing menopause may find relief by taking ginseng . Hot flashes are well known, but menopause is also expressed with anxiety, depressive disorders, irritability, vaginal dryness, insomnia or weight gain.
12. Strengthens the cardiovascular system
This plant is able to help ensure cardiovascular health . Different properties and benefits are attributed to ginseng, such as controlling blood pressure and heart rate, reducing the risk of thrombus formation and fighting atherosclerosis.
- Related article: “ The 15 medicinal plants with the most properties and benefits ”
Bibliographic references
- Alonso, J. R. (2004). Treatise on Phytopharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals. Rosary: Corpus.
- Vanaclocha, B. and Cañigueral, S. (2003). Phytotherapy: prescription vademecum. Barcelona: Editorial Masson.
- William E.C. (2000). Ginseng The Genus Panax. Amsterdam: CRC Press Book.
To the classic question “what do you do?” I always answer “basically I am a psychologist”. In fact, my academic training has revolved around the psychology of development, education and community, a field of study influenced my volunteer activities, as well as my first work experiences in personal services.