Condition
Treatment Support
tonifies weak adrenals
Application
capsules, tablets, tea, or tincture
American Ginseng
(Panax quinquefolius)
Botanical Information
An upright three-pronged plant with up to five leaflets on each prong. Produces red berries in the fall. Grows in deep hardwood forests of the eastern U.S.
Working with American Ginseng
Part(s) Used
Root
Herb Forms
Tinctures, tablets, capsules, teas, bulk herb, powder. Buy organically-grown or woods-grown as a first choice.
Christopher Hobbs:
“American ginseng is an excellent herb for people who have chronic fatigue, depression, and general weakness due to overwork and stress. It balances hormones and protects the adrenals. American ginseng is also useful for digestive weakness and irritable bowel syndrome. In Chinese medicine it is considered a “yin tonic.” It is less warming and stimulating than red ginsengs, which should not be taken by young people or when there are signs of heat, such as headaches and rashes.
American ginseng has a taste of SWEET, BITTER and a temperature of WARM.”
American ginseng has been used for centuries, particularly by Native American tribes, who valued it for its perceived restorative and balancing effects. Traditionally, it was used to alleviate fatigue, treat digestive issues, and improve immune function. In Eastern medicine, American ginseng is seen as a cooling tonic, balancing body energy, contrasting with Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), which is considered more warming.
Today, herbalists and naturopaths use American ginseng to support energy levels, improve cognitive function, and boost immune response. It’s often used in formulas for stress management, mild anxiety, and to enhance mental clarity. It’s sometimes recommended for people needing a gentle boost without overstimulation.
American ginseng contains active compounds called ginsenosides (or panaxosides), though in different ratios compared to Asian ginseng. These include Rb1, Rg1, and Rc ginsenosides, which contribute to its unique therapeutic effects. American ginseng also contains polysaccharides, antioxidants, and saponins, which may support immune health and reduce oxidative stress.
American ginseng is known to influence the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and immune system. Studies suggest that it may help modulate immune responses and increase resistance to physical and mental stress. It may also impact blood glucose levels, potentially helping with glycemic control.
Some clinical studies on American ginseng have shown promise, especially in areas of fatigue, cognitive function, and immune support. For example, trials have demonstrated its potential for improving mental clarity in stressful situations and its possible benefits for immune health, such as reducing symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. Additionally, some studies indicate it may have beneficial effects on blood sugar control, though more robust clinical trials are still needed to confirm these benefits.
In summary, American ginseng has a well-rounded profile with a balance of historical and modern therapeutic uses, favorable safety, and growing research support for its adaptogenic and immune-supportive properties.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Dr. Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Generally, American ginseng is well-tolerated with few side effects, particularly when compared to Asian ginseng. However, high doses may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, or insomnia in sensitive individuals. It is advised to avoid it during pregnancy, and it should be used cautiously in people with autoimmune disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications.
Conditions treated with American Ginseng
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
adaptogen, hormone tonic
Application
tincture, capsule, tablet, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
stimulating tonic
Application
tincture, capsule, tablet
Condition
Treatment Support
hormone, nerve tonic
Application
capsules, tablets, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
hormone tonic, metabolic regulator
Application
tincture, tea, capsules or tablets
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
