Can Panax ginseng increase testosterone levels and help with erectile dysfunction?

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    Last Updated: October 13, 2024

    Preliminary evidence suggests that supplementation with Panax ginseng may not significantly increase testosterone levels in athletes, although the quality of the study providing this evidence is questionable.[1] However, Panax ginseng supplementation may be effective in cases where testosterone levels are suppressed during periods of infertility and hypogonadism (low testosterone production).[2]

    In men with erectile dysfunction, Panax ginseng does not appear to affect testosterone levels.[3][4] Nevertheless, some studies have shown promising results regarding its efficacy in improving erectile function. One study found that a dosage of 1,000 mg of red Korean ginseng three times daily improved symptoms of mild to moderate erectile dysfunction compared to a placebo over a period of 3 months.[4] Another study noted a significant improvement in erectile function with 1,000 mg of Panax ginseng supplemented twice daily over 8 weeks, although the study suffered from a large dropout rate.[5] It can be concluded that Korean red ginseng holds promise as a potential treatment for erectile dysfunction, but further rigorous testing is needed to establish its efficacy and safety.