Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health.
Emily Dashiell, ND, is a licensed naturopathic doctor who has worked in group and private practice settings over the last 15 years. She is in private practice in Santa Monica, California.
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a root used in herbal medicine. Both Native American healers and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have utilized it.
Research suggests it may boost energy, stimulate the immune system, and lower blood sugars.
This article will look at the evidence for possible health benefits, side effects, and how to buy, prepare, and store American ginseng.
A member of the ivy family, American ginseng roots are available whole as well as in supplement and tea forms. The plant is native to North America.
The overall evidence for American ginseng's potential health benefits is limited. However, the available pool of research is growing. Some research suggests this root could help treat:
So far, much of the evidence is from lab and animal studies. Human trials are in the earliest stages. They'll reveal more about American ginseng's safety and effectiveness.
Preliminary research suggests American ginseng may fight fatigue. It has this in common with the more common Panax ginseng, a.k.a. Asian or Korean ginseng.
A 2018 review of studies said American and Asian ginseng may be viable for treating fatigue from chronic illness. Researchers added that there's a "critical need" for more and stronger trials.
An older study said it appeared to improve cancer-related fatigue—and without side effects. The researchers called for more research into this treatment.
Evidence is growing that American ginseng can improve mental function.
Some studies noted improved mental function after just a single dose of American ginseng.
Maintaining normal blood sugar levels is important for managing and preventing diabetes.
A 2018 study found adding American ginseng to diabetes treatments helped keep blood sugars in line.
Randomized, controlled trials done in 2019 and 2020—studies where participants were assigned to either a real or fake treatment group by chance—said American ginseng improved:
Ongoing research is looking at American ginseng use in treating pre-diabetes as well.
American ginseng may offer protection against viral respiratory tract infections, including influenza, flu-like illnesses, and the common cold, according to a 2017 review.
A 2020 analysis of research said American ginseng might be helpful in preventing and treating seasonal respiratory infections. However, researchers said the evidence wasn't strong enough for firm conclusions.
Research is promising for American ginseng as a treatment for:
However, it's in the early stages and more work is needed.
American ginseng is believed to be generally safe. Still, it may lead to side effects including:
The long-term side effects of ginseng use aren't known.
Drug interactions are possible. Unless your doctor has advised it, don't take American ginseng with:
Pregnant women should not take American ginseng. It's closely related to Panax ginseng, which is linked to possible birth defects.
American ginseng is sold online and in many stores that sell natural foods, herbal medicine, and supplements.
Dietary supplements aren't well regulated in the United States. To ensure quality, look for seals on the label from:
Standardized dosing for American ginseng isn't established. Follow the recommendations on the label or your doctor's advice.
Store supplements, tea, and the root in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
The root of the American ginseng plant looks like a forked parsnip. It grows wild in Eastern and Central U.S., especially the Appalachian and Ozark mountains.
American and Asian ginseng both contain compounds called ginsenosides, so their effects may be similar. However, every herb variety is unique. Information about one doesn't necessarily apply to another.
Evidence is growing that American ginseng may help improve fatigue, mental function, diabetes, and respiratory infections like the cold and flu. Side effects and drug interactions are possible.
This herbal treatment is widely available in multiple forms. Follow dosage recommendations on the label.
Alternative medicine shouldn't be a substitute for standard care. Use proven first-line treatments, then talk to your doctor about adding alternatives like American ginseng and other herbal remedies.
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Barton DL, Liu H, Dakhil SR, et al. Wisconsin Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) to improve cancer-related fatigue: a randomized, double-blind trial, N07C2. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2013;105(16):1230-1238. doi:10.1093/jnci/djt181
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Vuksan V, Xu ZZ, Jovanovski E, et al. Efficacy and safety of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) extract on glycemic control and cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a double-blind, randomized, cross-over clinical trial. Eur J Nutr. 2019;58(3):1237-1245. doi:10.1007/s00394-018-1642-0
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PennState Hershey: Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. American ginseng.
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