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Ginseng is an herbal supplement made from the dried roots of the ginseng plant (panax ginseng). The herb is used primarily to help the body resist physical, environmental and emotional stress and as an overall immune system and energy booster. Although there is no strong scientific evidence supporting use of the herb, ginseng supplements are sold worldwide in capsules, tablets, powders, teas and tonics. Ginseng extract is also used to make candies, chewing gum, energy drinks and other products.

There are several different types of ginseng plants used to make supplements. The two most common forms are American ginseng (panax quinquefolius) and Asian ginseng (panax ginseng C.A. Meyer or panax schinseng Nees). American ginseng is grown in parts of Canada and in Wisconsin as well as the southeastern United States. It is believed to have milder medicinal properties than the varieties grown in Asia. Nearly all the ginseng grown in America is exported to Asia. Consumers in the United States primarily use imported Asian ginseng made in China, Korea, Vietnam and Japan.

The ginseng root contains a mixture of plant chemicals (phytochemicals) believed to be responsible for ginseng’s purported health and wellness properties. The herbal supplement is generally considered safe, but may cause certain side effects (e.g., bleeding, hypertension) in some cases – especially in people with existing medical conditions such as diabetes or hemophilia. In extremely rare cases, overuse of the herb may lead to a condition called ginseng abuse syndrome, characterized by insomnia, tight muscles, water retention and high blood pressure.

Taking ginseng may also interfere with the way the liver metabolizes (breaks down) drugs and other substances in the body. This can cause the substances to be released in the bloodstream in greater concentrations than intended. Therefore, all individuals are urged to consult their physician before taking the herb.

Ginseng, like other herbs, is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for quality or effectiveness. That means there can be a wide variation in the amount and quality of ginseng contained in each product and therefore a significant difference in results achieved. Some studies have shown some ginseng products have only a fraction of the amount of ginseng stated on their labels. Other products that claim to contain ginseng may actually include a less expensive ingredient called eleuthero (Siberian ginseng), which may have similar properties, but is not in the same plant genus as ginseng.