Does Panax ginseng affect lipid profile and blood glucose?

    Last Updated: April 23, 2025

    The effects of Panax ginseng on lipid profiles and blood glucose levels remain uncertain; some studies have indicated a decrease in total cholesterol and LDL levels but no significant effect on triglycerides or HDL. Additionally, although certain dosages of Panax ginseng have been associated with reduced blood glucose levels, there was no significant effect on fasting glucose, fasting insulin, or HbA1c levels.

    Whether Panax ginseng can have positive effects on metabolic parameters is still uncertain, with more high-quality studies needed to reach a conclusion.

    One meta-analysis found that supplementation with 200–20,000 mg per day of Panax ginseng dry extract for 2–12 weeks decreased total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels compared to a placebo but didn't have a significant effect on triglycerides or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. It's worth noting that the studies in this meta-analysis included people both with and without cardiovascular risk factors, and there was high variability in the types of ginseng extracts used and their administration frequencies.[1] Another meta-analysis found inconclusive results regarding the effect of ginseng on blood pressure while noting a decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL levels, and body fat percentage compared to a placebo.[2]

    Regarding blood glucose parameters, dosages of Panax ginseng between 200 mg and 8,000 mg per day were associated with a reduction in blood glucose levels compared to a placebo. However, no significant effect was observed on fasting glucose, fasting insulin, postprandial glucose (glucose levels after food), postprandial insulin, or Hb1Ac levels.[2] Similar results were reported in another meta-analysis where supplementation with 780 mg to 6 grams per day of red Korean ginseng for 12 weeks did significantly affect fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and HbA1c levels compared to a placebo.[3]

    Does <em>Panax ginseng</em> affect lipid profile and blood glucose? - Examine