Although Ginseng has been in use in Chinese medicine since times immemorial, it only came to be revealed to the rest of the world in the 1950s. A Russian scientist is credited with unveiling the herb to the global medical community, promoting its stress alleviating effects. Today, ginseng or Panax Ginseng, is commonly used all over the world, including the U.S., to treat several different kinds of ailments as well as to improve overall health. The very name of the herb means ‘cure all’ (Greek ‘Pan’ meaning ‘all’ and ‘Akos’ meaning ‘cure’). One interesting fact to note about Ginseng is that its roots are man shaped.
An Effective Stress Buster
People who take Ginseng find that they can endure strain with greater ease. The herb helps the body fight off fatigue and boosts mental prowess too. A number of healthy people take ginseng to combat the effects of stress when they are overworked or fatigued from working long hours. As the herb improves mental alertness, the person taking ginseng finds that he/ she works better and more efficiently.
Ginseng has been found to contain some compounds that positively impact the adrenal glands. As these glands secrete hormones that help us handle stress, the intake of ginseng is helpful for people who have to work with precision in a high stress environment where many distractions are present.
Improves Memory
The herb also boosts memory, which is why many older people take Ginseng on a regular basis. Research has proven that Ginseng improves cognitive performance. This herb, in conjunction with others like Ginkgo biloba, is administered to improve learning processes and retention capacity. American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) has been tested for its ability to reduce the mental fatigue associated with intense cognitive processing thus boosting working memory.
Ginseng as a Tonic
In Chinese traditional medicine, Ginseng is also considered a very effective tonic for overall good health. Other than improving energy levels, this herb also improves resistance to common infections and enhances immunity. Ginseng is found to invigorate the body and fortify it. This benefit is especially valuable to those people who are recovering from a serious illness, such as certain types of cancer. Siberian ginseng is popularly used as an adaptogen- a substance that strengthens the body and improves resistance levels.