The term “ginseng” derives from the Chinese “jen-shen”, which translates to “plant-man”. This name probably stems from the resemblance of ginseng roots to the shape of a human body. The term Panax originates from the Greek “pan akheia” (panacea) meaning “cure of all diseases”.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mancuso C, Santangelo R. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28698154" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius: From pharmacology to toxicology.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Food Chem Toxicol (2017-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a>
In <a href="/other/traditional-chinese-medicine/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Traditional Chinese Medicine&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a collection of herbs, fungi, or berries that have historical usage as medicine in mainland China and sometimes nearby areas.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">traditional Chinese medicine</a>, ginseng holds significant importance and is also sometimes referred to as “the lord of herbs”, as it is believed that its roots contain the three main human essences: the body, the mind, and the spirit. The use of ginseng in traditional Chinese medicine dates back to Emperor Shennong (5000 years ago), who classified hundreds of medicinal and poisonous herbs, including ginseng, in what today we would call a pharmacopeia.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mancuso C, Santangelo R. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28698154" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius: From pharmacology to toxicology.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Food Chem Toxicol (2017-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a>

What is the history and etymology of Panax ginseng?

There are multiple types of Panax ginseng that can be obtained by treating the plant with different mechanical processing methods. Depending on the method used, the ginsenoside composition in the plant changes.
Red ginseng, also known as Korean red ginseng, is obtained by steaming Panax ginseng at 95–100°C, followed by drying it. This processing method leads to significant changes in the bioactive profile of the plant. While Panax ginseng typically contains ginsenosides Rb1, Ro, and Re as its main components, Korean red ginseng is characterized by a high content of ginsenoside Rb(3), which can be metabolized to Rb(2) by intestinal bacteria. Additionally, Korean red ginseng contains ginsenoside Rg(3), which is unique to this variety.<a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Yoon SR, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20546398" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ginsenoside composition and antiproliferative activities of explosively puffed ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer).
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Food Sci (2010-May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a> Another variety of ginseng, black ginseng, is obtained by subjecting Panax ginseng to nine cycles of steaming at a temperature of 98°C. However, black ginseng is not as commonly used in traditional medicine or supplements.<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Smith I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24666107" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Rev (2014-May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a>
White Ginseng is a term used to refer to Panax ginseng that has been cultivated and then air dried, as opposed to steam dried. The air drying process involves peeling and drying the root until the moisture content is reduced to below 12% and the root acquires a yellowish-white color. Some of the bioactives may be lost during this process.<a href="#ref-22" id="ref-link-22" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Jia L, Zhao Y. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19601793" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Current evaluation of the millennium phytomedicine--ginseng (I): etymology, pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, market and regulations.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Med Chem (2009)&lt;/div&gt;'>[22]</a>
Another relatively new type, sun ginseng, is obtained by processing Panax ginseng at higher temperatures, between 100–120°C, for 2 hours.<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Smith I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24666107" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Rev (2014-May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a>
Additionally, ginseng can undergo fermentation using fermentation organisms, such as Lactobacillus and Aspergillus, or various fungal species (e.g., Ganoderma lucidum).<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Smith I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24666107" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Rev (2014-May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a>

What are the different types of Panax ginseng?

G115 is a patented extraction of Panax ginseng by Pharmaton (Switzerland) that contains 4% ginsenosides by total weight,<a href="#ref-23" id="ref-link-23" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Yu CT, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15466162" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Lack of evidence for induction of CYP2B1, CYP3A23, and CYP1A2 gene expression by Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius extracts in adult rats and primary cultures of rat hepatocytes.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Drug Metab Dispos (2005-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[23]</a><a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Thomas K H Chang, Jie Chen, Salete A Benetton. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11901090" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;In vitro effect of standardized ginseng extracts and individual ginsenosides on the catalytic activity of human CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Drug Metab Dispos (2002 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a> while NAGE is a standardized extract from the same company containing 10% ginsenosides by weight.<a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Thomas K H Chang, Jie Chen, Salete A Benetton. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11901090" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;In vitro effect of standardized ginseng extracts and individual ginsenosides on the catalytic activity of human CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Drug Metab Dispos (2002 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a> These standardized extracts are commonly used in research to ensure quality standards and control for the total amount of ginsenosides.

What are G115 and NAGE Panax ginseng formulations?

Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng) is an herbaceous plant used in <a href="/other/traditional-chinese-medicine/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Traditional Chinese Medicine&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a collection of herbs, fungi, or berries that have historical usage as medicine in mainland China and sometimes nearby areas.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">traditional Chinese medicine</a> for a wide variety of preventative purposes. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is the most widely used species within the Panax genus for medicinal purposes.<a href="#ref-4" id="ref-link-4" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Yun TK. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11748372" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Brief introduction of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Korean Med Sci (2001-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[4]</a> The roots of the plant, typically harvested in early autumn from mature specimens aged at least 4 years, are the primary source of bioactive compounds and are usually the parts used in supplements.<a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hernández-García D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31315027" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Efficacy of Panax ginseng supplementation on blood lipid profile. A meta-analysis and systematic review of clinical randomized trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ethnopharmacol (2019-Oct-28)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a>
While there are 13 identified species of ginseng, the two most prevalent in supplements and the food industry are Panax ginseng, grown in China and Korea, and Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng), grown in regions of the United States and Canada. Panax ginseng supplements are often used to enhance <a href="/outcomes/mood/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Mood&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;These are supplements which may affect anxiety, depression, and their subclinical and related conditions.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">mood</a>, <a href="/outcomes/cognition/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Cognition&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Cognition broadly represents the workings of the mind. Individual pages for specific cognitive faculties (memory, attention, alertness, processing speed, etc.) will generally be more useful.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">cognition</a>, and immune function. Ginseng is also used as an ingredient in food and edible products (e.g., chewing gums, candies, and coffee).<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mancuso C, Santangelo R. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28698154" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius: From pharmacology to toxicology.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Food Chem Toxicol (2017-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a>
It is essential to distinguish genuine Panax ginseng from other herbal products marketed under the name of ginseng. Notably, Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as <a href="/supplements/eleuthero/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Eleuthero&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Eleutherococcus senticosus is an adaptogen and herb that may increase work capacity during strenuous aerobic activity. It also has anti-stress and potential immunity-boosting effects.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">eleuthero</a>), Brazilian ginseng (Pfaffia paniculata), and Indian ginseng (<a href="/supplements/ashwagandha/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Ashwagandha&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Ashwagandha has been called the king of Ayurvedic herbs. It’s best known for reducing stress and anxiety. It may also modestly enhance various aspects of physical performance, increase testosterone levels, and improve reproductive health, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">ashwagandha</a>) are among the commercially available alternatives that do not originate from the Panax genus. Although they carry similar names, they do not contain the same bioactive compounds, and therefore they have completely different mechanisms of action and effects.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mancuso C, Santangelo R. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28698154" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius: From pharmacology to toxicology.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Food Chem Toxicol (2017-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a>

What is Panax ginseng?

Animal studies suggest that the ginsenoside content in Korean red ginseng (and in Panax ginseng in general) may play a role in regulating abnormal feeding patterns, while it has no effect on normal feeding patterns. Surprisingly, little research has been done on the appetite-stimulating effects of ginseng, despite its traditional use for this purpose. There are no human studies directed to answer this topic, either, but potent acute suppression of <a href="/outcomes/appetite/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Appetite&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;The desire to eat food, independent of whether food is actually eaten or not. This pools together both physical hunger and subjective appetite, since studies measure this by self-report survey.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">appetite</a> is seen in obese mice that overeat, and results are mixed in lean mice.<a href="#ref-25" id="ref-link-25" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kang M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7716222" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ginsenoside Rg1 modulates ingestive behavior and thermal response induced by interleukin-1 beta in rats.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Physiol Behav (1995-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[25]</a><a href="#ref-26" id="ref-link-26" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kim JH, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15655288" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of crude saponin of Korean red ginseng on high-fat diet-induced obesity in the rat.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Pharmacol Sci (2005-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[26]</a><a href="#ref-27" id="ref-link-27" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Attele AS, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12031973" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Antidiabetic effects of Panax ginseng berry extract and the identification of an effective component.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Diabetes (2002-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[27]</a>
The mechanism behind this appetite suppression may involve the downregulation of orexigenic neuropeptides, which stimulate appetite, and the upregulation of anorexigenic neuropeptides, which inhibit appetite.<a href="#ref-28" id="ref-link-28" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Phung HM, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35818423" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Regulation of appetite-related neuropeptides by Panax ginseng: A novel approach for obesity treatment.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2022-Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[28]</a>

Can Panax ginseng be used to regulate appetite?

Ginseng might be a useful addition to <a href="/supplements/multivitamin/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Multivitamin&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Multivitamin and multimineral&lt;/em&gt; (MVM) supplements contain a combination of vitamins and minerals, and sometimes other ingredients as well. The available evidence does not demonstrate that MVM supplements reliably provide a health benefit for healthy people with adequate micronutrient intake.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">multivitamin</a> formulations for improving mood due to having some bioactivity at low doses (40–100mg).<a href="#ref-29" id="ref-link-29" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Caso Marasco A, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9034759" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Double-blind study of a multivitamin complex supplemented with ginseng extract.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Drugs Exp Clin Res (1996)&lt;/div&gt;'>[29]</a><a href="#ref-30" id="ref-link-30" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Perazzo et al.. &lt;a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233747161_Double-Blind_Clinical_Study_of_a_Multivitamin_and_Polymineral_Complex_Associated_with_Panax_ginseng_Extract_Gerovital_R" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Double-blind clinical study of a multivitamin and polymineral complex associated with Panax ginseng extract (Gerovital®)
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;The Open Complementary Medicine Journal (2010-01-01)&lt;/div&gt;'>[30]</a> However, data regarding its inclusion in multivitamin formulations is conflicting.

Are multivitamin supplements containing Panax ginseng effective?

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 <a href="/outcomes/total-cholesterol/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Total cholesterol&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Total cholesterol refers to all the cholesterol in your blood (HDL-C and LDL-C). It is distinct from triglycerides.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">total cholesterol</a> and low-density lipoprotein (<a href="/outcomes/ldl-c/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to other parts of the body. Because higher levels of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) tend to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), LDL-C is often called the “bad cholesterol” (as opposed to HDL-C) — but the reality is more complex.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">LDL</a>) levels compared to a placebo but didn't have a significant effect on <a href="/outcomes/triglycerides/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Triglycerides&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Triglycerides refers to the fatty acids in your blood. They can be used for energy or stored into fat cells (i.e., body fat). Abnormal triglycerides raise the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">triglycerides</a> or high-density lipoprotein (<a href="/outcomes/hdl/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;High-density lipoprotein (HDL)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;High-density lipoprotein&lt;/em&gt; (HDL) is a particle that carries cholesterol from your blood to your liver. Low levels of &lt;em&gt;HDL cholesterol&lt;/em&gt; (HDL-C) are associated with a higher risk of &lt;em&gt;cardiovascular disease&lt;/em&gt; (CVD), which is why HDL-C is often called the “good cholesterol” (as opposed to LDL-C) — but the reality is more complex.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">HDL</a>) 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.<a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hernández-García D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31315027" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Efficacy of Panax ginseng supplementation on blood lipid profile. A meta-analysis and systematic review of clinical randomized trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ethnopharmacol (2019-Oct-28)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a> 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.<a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Park SH, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35509826" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2022-Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a>
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 <a href="/outcomes/fasting-glucose/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Fasting Glucose&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Fasting glucose is the concentration of glucose in the blood after a period of fasting, typically overnight.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">fasting blood glucose</a>, fasting <a href="/outcomes/insulin/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Insulin&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Insulin is a hormone that rises when blood glucose rises. It lowers blood glucose by telling cells to absorb and use it. If your cells’ insulin sensitivity is low, they won’t absorb enough glucose — you have insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">insulin</a>, postprandial glucose (glucose levels after food), postprandial insulin, or Hb1Ac levels.<a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Park SH, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35509826" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2022-Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a> 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.<a href="#ref-31" id="ref-link-31" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kim S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22139546" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Red ginseng for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Chin J Integr Med (2011-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[31]</a>

Does Panax ginseng affect lipid profile and blood glucose?

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.<a href="#ref-32" id="ref-link-32" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Ho Youl Kang, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11991768" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of ginseng ingestion on growth hormone, testosterone, cortisol, and insulin-like growth factor 1 responses to acute resistance exercise
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Strength Cond Res (2002 May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[32]</a> However, Panax ginseng supplementation may be effective in cases where testosterone levels are suppressed during periods of infertility and hypogonadism (low testosterone production).<a href="#ref-33" id="ref-link-33" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Salvati G, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9063034" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer saponins on male fertility
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Panminerva Med (1996 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[33]</a>
In men with erectile dysfunction, Panax ginseng does not appear to affect testosterone levels.<a href="#ref-34" id="ref-link-34" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hong B, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12394711" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A double-blind crossover study evaluating the efficacy of korean red ginseng in patients with erectile dysfunction: a preliminary report
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Urol (2002 Nov)&lt;/div&gt;'>[34]</a><a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;de Andrade E, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16855773" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Study of the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Asian J Androl (2007 Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a> 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 <a href="/conditions/erectile-dysfunction/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Erectile Dysfunction&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Erectile dysfunction is a type of male sexual dysfunction characterized by difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by nerve or blood vessel damage, obesity, smoking, or stress.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">erectile dysfunction</a> compared to a placebo over a period of 3 months.<a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;de Andrade E, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16855773" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Study of the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Asian J Androl (2007 Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a> 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.<a href="#ref-35" id="ref-link-35" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kim TH, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19234482" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) extract on male patients with erectile dysfunction
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Asian J Androl (2009 May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[35]</a> 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.

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

It has been suggested that Panax ginseng may improve skin quality and reduce <a href="/outcomes/wrinkles/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Wrinkles&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Wrinkles are lines and creases that form on the skin.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">wrinkles</a> when taken orally, but the evidence is currently limited. Only one human study is available on this topic, and it involved the use of a combination of ginseng with two other herbs.<a href="#ref-36" id="ref-link-36" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Cho S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20041778" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Red ginseng root extract mixed with Torilus fructus and Corni fructus improves facial wrinkles and increases type I procollagen synthesis in human skin: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Med Food (2009 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[36]</a> Further studies focusing solely on Panax ginseng supplementation and its effect on skin quality are necessary to establish its effectiveness in this area.

Can Panax ginseng improve skin appearance?

One meta-analysis revealed that Panax ginseng did not significantly improve overall <a href="/outcomes/sexual-function/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Sexual Function&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Sexual function refers to how the body reacts during the sexual response cycle, which includes sexual desire, subjective arousal, genital congestion, orgasm, and resolution.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">sexual function</a> in women compared to a placebo. However, subgroup analysis found that it did have a positive effect on specific domains of sexual function, including sexual arousal and sexual desire. Interestingly, no effects were observed on other aspects of sexual function such as orgasm, pain, lubrication, and sexual satisfaction.<a href="#ref-37" id="ref-link-37" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Sha'ari N, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34638031&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Beneficial effects of natural products on female sexual dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytomedicine (2021-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;">[37]</a>

Does Panax ginseng work for female sexual dysfunction?

Only a limited number of clinical studies (human studies) have investigated the effect of Panax ginseng on <a href="/outcomes/menopausal-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Menopausal Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Menopause is the stage of life when menses permanently cease, and the reproductive system no longer performs functions related to fertility. The most common signs and symptoms of menopause are hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, Insomnia, trouble focusing, and mood swings. To learn more about the condition itself, visit our Menopause page.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">menopausal symptoms</a>, and the overall evidence remains inconclusive. While some studies found that supplementation with Korean red ginseng in menopausal women improved sexual arousal, overall health, and menopausal symptoms compared to a placebo, others failed to observe a significant reduction in <a href="/outcomes/hot-flash-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Hot Flash Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Hot flashes are the sudden feeling of warmth and resulting sweating, often in the upper body and face. Hot flashes are commonly due to menopause, but can also arise from exposure to everyday stressors.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">hot flash</a> frequency, although they found significant improvements in <a href="/outcomes/subjective-well-being/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Subjective Well-Being&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Your subjective well-being represents your life satisfaction (i.e., how happy you are with your life, intellectually and emotionally). It is usually tested with a questionnaire.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">well-being</a> and depression.<a href="#ref-38" id="ref-link-38" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kim MS, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23717154" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ginseng for managing menopause symptoms: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2013-Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[38]</a> However, in vitro studies have reported that several ginsenosides are agonists (activators) of estrogen receptors.<a href="#ref-39" id="ref-link-39" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Seely D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18204104" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Safety and efficacy of panax ginseng during pregnancy and lactation.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Can J Clin Pharmacol (2008)&lt;/div&gt;'>[39]</a> Further research is required to clarify this mechanism of action.

Is Panax ginseng effective for menopausal symptoms?

Research on the effects of Panax ginseng on <a href="/outcomes/mood/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Mood&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;These are supplements which may affect anxiety, depression, and their subclinical and related conditions.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">mood</a> and <a href="/outcomes/cognition/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Cognition&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Cognition broadly represents the workings of the mind. Individual pages for specific cognitive faculties (memory, attention, alertness, processing speed, etc.) will generally be more useful.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">cognition</a> yields mixed findings.
One study found that Panax ginseng may have a dose-dependent calming effect on mood,<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Reay JL, Scholey AB, Kennedy DO. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20737519" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adults
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Hum Psychopharmacol (2010 Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a> but subsequent research failed to replicate these results.<a href="#ref-8" id="ref-link-8" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Cardinal BJ, Engels HJ. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11424544" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ginseng does not enhance psychological well-being in healthy, young adults: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Am Diet Assoc (2001 Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[8]</a> Moreover, supplementation with Panax ginseng showed initial improvements in mental health at the 4-week mark, but this effect diminished by the end of the 8-week intervention period.<a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Ellis JM, Reddy P. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11895046" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of Panax ginseng on quality of life
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Ann Pharmacother (2002 Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[9]</a> Overall, the evidence suggests that Panax ginseng's effects on mood may be short lived, lasting between 1 and 4 weeks before diminishing.
Similarly, the potential cognitive benefits of Panax ginseng remain inconclusive due to variations in study methodologies and inconsistent results.<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Smith I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24666107" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Rev (2014-May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a><a href="#ref-1" id="ref-link-1" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Geng J, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21154383" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ginseng for cognition.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2010-Dec-08)&lt;/div&gt;'>[1]</a> While some studies reported enhancements in <a href="/outcomes/reaction-time/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Reaction Time&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Reaction time is a cognitive parameter. The shorter your reaction time, the faster your reflexes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">reaction time</a> and accuracy with Panax ginseng supplementation, others failed to establish significant cognitive improvements.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Reay JL, Scholey AB, Kennedy DO. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20737519" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adults
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Hum Psychopharmacol (2010 Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Reay JL, Kennedy DO, Scholey AB. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15982990" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activity
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Psychopharmacol (2005 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[11]</a> Thus, further research is necessary to validate these effects and elucidate the mechanisms underlying Panax ginseng's impact on cognition.
Additionally, Panax ginseng extracts appear to have some immunomodulatory properties and to reduce the occurrence of the flu in humans when taken alongside flu vaccination.<a href="#ref-12" id="ref-link-12" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Scaglione F, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8879982" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Efficacy and safety of the standardised Ginseng extract G115 for potentiating vaccination against the influenza syndrome and protection against the common cold corrected
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Drugs Exp Clin Res (1996)&lt;/div&gt;'>[12]</a>

What are Panax ginseng’s main benefits?

Panax ginseng supplements are generally considered safe. A systematic review assessing the safety of ginseng use in humans reported a low incidence of harm, with side effects primarily related to gastrointestinal symptoms such as <a href="/outcomes/diarrhea-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Diarrhea Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Diarrhea refers to loose, watery stools that may be caused by a virus, contaminated food, or disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">diarrhea</a>, <a href="/outcomes/nausea-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Nausea Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Nausea is the feeling of acute sickness that may result in vomiting and loss of appetite. Some supplements are known as antiemetics, and are used to reduce the sensation of nausea when taken.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">nausea</a>, <a href="/outcomes/vomiting/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Vomiting&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Vomiting is the expulsion of stomach contents from the mouth. It can be triggered from a variety of causes such as infection, dizziness, and pregnancy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">vomiting</a>, and cramps.<a href="#ref-13" id="ref-link-13" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lee NH, Son CG. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21704950" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Systematic review of randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of ginseng.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Acupunct Meridian Stud (2011-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[13]</a><a href="#ref-14" id="ref-link-14" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lee NH, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22909282" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Safety and tolerability of Panax ginseng root extract: a randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial in healthy Korean volunteers.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Altern Complement Med (2012-Nov)&lt;/div&gt;'>[14]</a>
However, high doses and long-term usage may lead to the development of the so-called “ginseng abuse syndrome”, characterized by symptoms such as <a href="/conditions/high-blood-pressure/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;High Blood Pressure&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;High blood pressure is when the force of your blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. High blood pressure is often caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, although it can result from other medical conditions as well.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">hypertension</a>, nervousness, sleeplessness, diarrhea, and skin eruptions when taking 3 grams of Panax ginseng per day. Higher dosages (15 grams per day or more) have also been associated with depersonalization, <a href="/outcomes/confusion/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Confusion&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Confusion is the feeling of being unsure or unable to think clearly. A variety of things such as medical conditions, medications, and sleep disruptions can cause confusion.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">confusion</a>, and <a href="/conditions/depression/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Depression&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Depression is a chronic state of low mood often associated with hopelessness, apathy, and fatigue. Unlike sadness, depression is a disorder that persists for weeks or months and interferes with daily life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">depression</a>.<a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Vogler BK, Pittler MH, Ernst E. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10541774" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The efficacy of ginseng. A systematic review of randomised clinical trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Eur J Clin Pharmacol (1999-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a><a href="#ref-16" id="ref-link-16" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Deng W, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37181298" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Panax ginseng abuse exhibits a pro-inflammatory effect by activating the NF-κB pathway.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Food Sci Nutr (2023 May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[16]</a><a href="#ref-17" id="ref-link-17" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Paik DJ, Lee CH. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26045681" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Review of cases of patient risk associated with ginseng abuse and misuse.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2015-Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[17]</a>
Furthermore, Panax ginseng exhibits mild inhibitory effects on some enzymes from the <a href="/glossary/cytochrome-p450/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Cytochrome P450&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Cytochrome P450&lt;/em&gt; (CYPs) are a diverse family of enzymes involved broadly in cellular metabolism and detoxification. CYPs are the most well-recognized drug-metabolizing enzymes in the body. Many internal and external factors can influence their level of activity, which can contribute to the risk of drug interactions.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">CYP450</a> family, such as CYP1A2, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4, which are involved in the metabolism of certain medications. This interaction appears to be of small significance and is unlikely to be clinically meaningful.<a href="#ref-18" id="ref-link-18" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kim DS, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27746690" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of Red Ginseng on cytochrome P450 and P-glycoprotein activities in healthy volunteers.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2016-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[18]</a>

What are Panax ginseng’s main drawbacks?

Panax ginseng contains various bioactive components, with ginsenosides being the main active compounds responsible for its pharmacological benefits. The types of ginsenosides in the plant extract and their concentration can vary depending on the extraction and preparation method used.<a href="#ref-19" id="ref-link-19" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kim JH, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29021688" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Role of ginsenosides, the main active components of Panax ginseng, in inflammatory responses and diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2017 Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[19]</a> Other active ingredients found in Panax ginseng include polysaccharides, peptides, phytosterols, polyacetylenes, polyacetylenic alcohols, and fatty acids, which contribute to its overall therapeutic properties.<a href="#ref-19" id="ref-link-19" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kim JH, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29021688" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Role of ginsenosides, the main active components of Panax ginseng, in inflammatory responses and diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ginseng Res (2017 Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[19]</a>
The pharmacological effects of Panax ginseng are largely attributed to its ginsenoside content, which interacts with various molecular targets in the body to exert its beneficial effects. For example, certain ginsenosides found in red Panax ginseng, such as Ro and R(3), have been shown to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme is responsible for converting <a href="/outcomes/testosterone/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Testosterone&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Testosterone is the best-known androgen (male hormone), but females produce it too. In both sexes, low testosterone can reduce libido and cause fat gain, muscle loss, and bone loss.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">testosterone</a> into dihydrotestosterone (<a href="/outcomes/dht/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;DHT&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative of testosterone that is known as being more potent at signaling through the androgen receptor, and due to this it is involved to a larger degree in hair loss and prostate cancer.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">DHT</a>), and by inhibiting this enzyme, Panax ginseng may help increase testosterone levels.<a href="#ref-20" id="ref-link-20" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Murata K, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21538628" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of ginseng rhizome and ginsenoside Ro on testosterone 5α-reductase and hair re-growth in testosterone-treated mice.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2012-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[20]</a>

How does Panax Ginseng work?

Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)

Brain Health

Ginseng for cognition.

Effects of  on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Study of the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction

Brief introduction of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer.

Efficacy of Panax ginseng supplementation on blood lipid profile. A meta-analysis and systematic review of clinical randomized trials.

Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius: From pharmacology to toxicology.

Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adults

Ginseng does not enhance psychological well-being in healthy, young adults: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial

Effects of Panax ginseng on quality of life

Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition.

Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activity

Efficacy and safety of the standardised Ginseng extract G115 for potentiating vaccination against the influenza syndrome and protection against the common cold corrected

Systematic review of randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of ginseng.

Safety and tolerability of Panax ginseng root extract: a randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial in healthy Korean volunteers.

The efficacy of ginseng. A systematic review of randomised clinical trials.

Panax ginseng abuse exhibits a pro-inflammatory effect by activating the NF-κB pathway.

Review of cases of patient risk associated with ginseng abuse and misuse.

Effect of Red Ginseng on cytochrome P450 and P-glycoprotein activities in healthy volunteers.

Role of ginsenosides, the main active components of Panax ginseng, in inflammatory responses and diseases.

Effects of ginseng rhizome and ginsenoside Ro on testosterone 5α-reductase and hair re-growth in testosterone-treated mice.

Ginsenoside composition and antiproliferative activities of explosively puffed ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer).

Current evaluation of the millennium phytomedicine--ginseng (I): etymology, pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, market and regulations.

Lack of evidence for induction of CYP2B1, CYP3A23, and CYP1A2 gene expression by Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius extracts in adult rats and primary cultures of rat hepatocytes.

In vitro effect of standardized ginseng extracts and individual ginsenosides on the catalytic activity of human CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1

Ginsenoside Rg1 modulates ingestive behavior and thermal response induced by interleukin-1 beta in rats.

Effect of crude saponin of Korean red ginseng on high-fat diet-induced obesity in the rat.

Antidiabetic effects of Panax ginseng berry extract and the identification of an effective component.

Regulation of appetite-related neuropeptides by Panax ginseng: A novel approach for obesity treatment.

Double-blind study of a multivitamin complex supplemented with ginseng extract.

Double-blind clinical study of a multivitamin and polymineral complex associated with Panax ginseng extract (Gerovital®)

Red ginseng for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Effects of ginseng ingestion on growth hormone, testosterone, cortisol, and insulin-like growth factor 1 responses to acute resistance exercise

Effects of Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer saponins on male fertility

A double-blind crossover study evaluating the efficacy of korean red ginseng in patients with erectile dysfunction: a preliminary report

Effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) extract on male patients with erectile dysfunction

Red ginseng root extract mixed with Torilus fructus and Corni fructus improves facial wrinkles and increases type I procollagen synthesis in human skin: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)

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