american ginseng

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

american ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a plant commonly used in traditional medicine. It is believed to have adaptogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. american ginseng is often used to improve cognitive function,

reduce stress, and boost the immune system. It may also be used to treat various medical conditions such as diabetes, respiratory infections, and high blood pressure. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Diarrhea 

HTN 

Itching 

Nervousness 

Vaginal bleeding
Allergic skin reactions 

Headache 

Insomnia 

Increased libido 

Palpitations 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There are no black box warnings for american ginseng 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

There are no absolute contraindications for american ginseng. It may interact with certain medications and can affect blood sugar levels, so individuals who have diabetes or are taking medications for blood sugar control should use caution.  

Caution: 

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of american ginseng during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 
• Blood sugar control: american ginseng can lower blood sugar levels. People with diabetes who are taking medications to lower blood sugar levels should be cautious when taking american ginseng as it may interact with their medications and cause blood sugar levels to drop too low. 
• Bleeding disorders: american ginseng can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when used in high doses. Therefore, people with bleeding disorders or who are taking blood-thinning medications should avoid using it. 
• High blood pressure: american ginseng can increase blood pressure in some people. Therefore, people with high blood pressure should be cautious when using it. 
• Hormone-sensitive conditions: american ginseng may have estrogen-like effects and could worsen conditions that are sensitive to hormones such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. 
• Mental health conditions: american ginseng may cause agitation, anxiety, and trouble sleeping in people with bipolar disorder. Therefore, people with mental health conditions should use it with caution.

Comorbidities: 

american ginseng has been reported to interact with several medications, including warfarin, insulin, oral hypoglycemic agents, and MAO inhibitors. Therefore, caution is advised in patients with diabetes or those taking blood-thinning medications. It may also interact with immunosuppressive drugs and should be avoided in patients with autoimmune diseases, as it may stimulate the immune system.

Patients with a history of breast cancer or hormone-sensitive conditions should also avoid american ginseng, as it may have estrogenic effects. It is important to note that herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA, and the quality and purity of products may vary. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: N/A 

Lactation: N/A  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: There is no evidence of risk to the fetus found in animal reproduction studies and there are not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for an effect in humans, care must be taken for potential risks in pregnant women. 
• Category D: There is adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite potential risks may be used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh risks over benefits These category drugs should be prohibited for pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

american ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) contains active compounds called ginsenosides, which are believed to be responsible for its pharmacological effects. Ginsenosides are steroid glycosides that exert adaptogenic effects on the body, helping it to better cope with stressors. 

Other compounds found in american ginseng include polysaccharides, flavonoids, polyacetylenes, and volatile oils. These compounds are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. 

american ginseng has been shown to have various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective effects. It is also believed to improve mental performance and reduce stress and anxiety.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of american ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is not completely understood, but it is believed to be due to the presence of ginsenosides, which are steroidal saponins found in the plant. These ginsenosides are believed to have adaptogenic properties, meaning they help the body adapt to physical and emotional stressors. american ginseng is also believed to have immune-boosting properties and may have anti-inflammatory effects.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

american ginseng is orally administered and can be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, american ginseng compounds can be distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. Some compounds may accumulate in certain tissues, such as the brain. 

Metabolism 

american ginseng undergoes metabolism in the liver, primarily through the cytochrome P450 enzymes. 

Elimination and excretion 

The elimination of american ginseng from the body occurs through the kidneys and the bile. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

american ginseng is available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, extracts, and teas. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommended dosage when taking american ginseng. The dosages may vary depending on the form and strength of the product.

Generally, american ginseng is taken orally with water, and it can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to take american ginseng in the morning to avoid any potential sleep disturbances. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: american ginseng 

Pronounced: (uh-MER-uh-kuhn JIN-seng)  

Why do we use american ginseng? 

• Boosting immune system: american ginseng is believed to stimulate the immune system and improve overall health and wellness. 
• Reducing stress and anxiety: american ginseng may help reduce stress and anxiety levels and promote relaxation. 
• Improving cognitive function: american ginseng has been shown to improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and mental clarity. 
• Enhancing physical performance: american ginseng may improve physical endurance, reduce fatigue, and increase energy levels. 
• Managing diabetes: american ginseng may help regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. 
• Managing erectile dysfunction: american ginseng has been used as a natural remedy for erectile dysfunction.