Ginseng potency and side effects

For many generations, ginseng has benefited many and has been passed down. It has helped those who are diabetic and raise energy for those who are easily fatigue. To me, the most interesting thing about ginseng is the aphrodisiac properties and it has been known to delay or even treat impotency.

Ginseng, a libido lifter
Research studies have been done on animals to show that ginseng increases sexual activity and mating behaviour in rats. I used to have this supervisor who gave birth to her third child when she was past her mid forties. She told me once that she takes ginseng regularly and her husband takes tonic almost everyday as well. I guess this must be one of the reasons why they conceived at their age.

Precautions on ginseng
Despite all its benefits, there are some precautions that should be observed, just like any herbs. Some users might experience mild side effects such as diarrhea, headache, palpitations, heavier menstrual flow, insomnia and irritability. During pregnancy or after giving birth, it is not advisable to take ginseng as miscarriage might occur; heavier menstrual flow after birth might mean losing more blood from your body after the child birth.

Do not take ginseng with anti-coagulant medication as it thins the blood and might lead to internal bleeding. Ginseng should not be taken with vasodilator medication as it can over-dilate blood vessels.

Due to ginseng's usefulness, care should be taken to prevent ginseng abuse syndrome (GAS). It is usually caused by users who takes ginseng regularly even when they do not need it. Symptoms include euphoria, hypertension, insomnia, diarrhea, nervousness, rashes or breathlessness. I have a friend who takes them too regularly that she feels sick if she didn't take the ginseng. I suspect she might be experiencing ginseng abuse syndrome. I have noticed that there are some who do not believe in this but I believe in all things that is good, we should always take them in moderation. So take ginseng by all means, but be more mindful of its side effects and take them with care.