There are two different plant species that are both termed ginseng. These are:
- Panax ginseng—Chinese or Korean ginseng
Eleutherococcus senticosus—Siberian ginseng
Both have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine but more emphasis has usually
been on the use of Panax ginseng. Both types have similar activity and mechanism
of action, which may be summarized as:
- Adaptogenic function—a substance which acts to enhance non-specific resistance
to various internal and external stresses
- Relief of mental and physical fatigue
- Improvement in tolerance to stress
- Support to the immune system
- Enhancement of mental and physical performance
Typically, the Chinese do not take ginseng to cure or prevent disease but rather
to invigorate the body and mind, provide energy and generally act as a very effective
and safe tonic. Many of the adaptogenic responses that are produced by ginseng are
thought to be due to effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis via stimulation
of ACTH and modulation of seratonin production.
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