Ginseng is an oldest medicinal plant used . Its use is very important in traditional Chinese medicine (CTM) and, according to some authors, their knowledge goes back to about 5000 BC
The virtues of roots (the part of the plant used) were already described by Emperor Shen Nong (about 2700 BC), which was known as the “Divine Farmer” by studying more than 100 plants with healing powers, and he attributed ginseng’s ability to restore strength to the vital organs (heart, lung, liver, kidney and spleen), calm the spirit and anxiety, develop intelligence and regulate vital energy.
Its use in the West, although more recent, dating back to the late sixteenth century, when the ginseng root was introduced by Dutch merchants. The first reports came from the hand of the accounts of Jesuit missionaries established in China and Southeast Asia, and relate mainly to its botanical aspects, its toning and vitalizing and the assumption that taking them longer life. Since then and to date, ginseng has been the subject of numerous investigations.
Although best known in Europe ginseng is Panax ginseng plant family Araliaceae whose natural habitat includes different parts of Asia (China, Korea, the best-known quality-, Japan, etc.), There are different varieties according to their origin Geographic. So in Japan, southern China and India, growing the variety Panax japonicus CA Meyer and Panax repens (Japanese ginseng or ginseng bamboo), and in Canada and North America grows the variety Panax quinquefolium L (American ginseng), among other varieties .
Although similar properties attributed to them, the chemical composition of ginseng roots varies with species. A special mention deserves the called Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus Maxim.), Because although it is a plant that belongs to the same family, not to be confused. In common with used ginseng roots and also has some similar physiological effects.
In ancient China already used this root, whose shape resembles that of a man, to restore strength, spirit and calm the anxiety, develop intelligence and vitality return. At present, the various studies carried out have confirmed its ability to increase resilience to stress and generally improve the physical and mental performance. It has been found also that ginseng has the ability to increase resistance to fatigue and improve tolerance to cold and fatigue. Other studies suggest it can improve concentration and memory in healthy people and strengthen the natural defense against various infections such as colds or flu. It has also been shown to be able to improve mental and physical performance and fatigability for Wear old older people.
Most often take into dosage forms as tablets, capsules or drinkable ampoules. In these cases be followed dosage guidelines set by the manufacturer. Can also be found as an infusion, even in the form of instant infusion (to dissolve in hot or cold), has a pleasant taste and may be the equivalent of 1-2 grams per day (never) spread over two or three infusions .
Regional often in combination with other natural substances such as royal jelly and / or vitamins that strengthen its tonic and anti-fatigue (follow the manufacturer’s dosage guidelines).
To prepare the infusion, one gram of boiled ginseng root in 200 ml of water for several minutes. Let stand covered container and strain. Some authors of traditional Chinese medicine, advise taking this tea warm or at room temperature.
In case of hypertension, caution should be used to monitor blood pressure and to verify that it does not cause any change in it. In anxiety states should also pay attention because, although it has been observed that when it is caused by a stressful situation usually improves, can not be ruled increased nervousness or anxiety in nervous.
Ginseng may interact with Parkinson drugs, anticoagulants, antidiabetic, so people with these treatments should not be taken without doctor control. For other chronic treatments should consult with your doctor or pharmacist. For lack of studies not be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical supervision.
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