The Good and Bad Side of Ginseng
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The use of herbs and other alternative medicine is a long-time approach to strengthen the body and promote overall health. Alternative medicine involves practices that are used as replacements for conventional medicines. Many people prefer to use them instead of over-the-counter medication based on the belief that these alternative medicines do not bring any side effects. People have used herbs for centuries to treat disease and other infections. Herbs contain many active substances that can trigger side effects or interact with drugs, supplements, or other herbs. This is the reason why herbs should taken with extreme care and caution.
Ginseng is one of the famous alternative medications used to treat stress, anxiety, fatigue, and other physical illness. It contains combinations of carbohydrate compounds, nitrogenous compounds, and other necessary vitamins and minerals. Ginseng is used to treat fever, fatigue, respiratory tract disorders, and other illness. In addition, this herb supports cancer treatment. It helps rebuild cells and give strength to muscles, which are necessary for cancer treatment. Other benefits may include increased vitality, extended endurance, relieved body stress, balanced metabolism, and many more. Ginseng is also a treatment for sexual health because it helps cure sexual dysfunction for both sexes. This herb can be an alternative for women who suffer from post-menopause symptoms. Ginseng is most famous because of its ability to slow down the aging process, it is used as a supplement in various anti-aging medicines. Many alternative drugs like ginsengs are out in the market to boost energy, concentration, and enhance physical or cognitive performance. Many ginsengs are believed to act as tonics that improve the body’s balance, enhance stamina, and resistance to diseases.
The health benefits of ginseng have been proven by medical researches. However, this herb is not a perfect herb. Just like any over the counter and alternative medicines, there are possible side effects that can be encountered while using it. The most usual side effects of ginseng are:
· High blood pressure
· Insomnia
· Restlessness
· Anxiety
· Euphoria
· Diarrhea
· Vomiting
· Headache
· Nosebleed
· Breast pain
· Vaginal bleeding
In addition to these side effects, large amounts of ginseng can cause trouble to individuals with diabetes. Ginseng may lower blood sugar levels, and possibly result to lessened blood sugar levels. Too low blood sugar levels may result to shakiness, sweating, distorted speech, loss of muscle control, and confusion. Unregulated cases of extremely low blood sugar may lead to unconsciousness and even death.
There are possibilities that ginseng can lead to unwanted health effects when it is mixed with other substances. Caffeine, for instance, when taken with ginseng may cause excessive nervousness and irritability. Beverages with caffeine like coffee, tea, and sodas should not be consumed with ginseng. Some interactions with herbal products and medications may be severe than others. Seeking advice from medical specialists is the best way to avoid harmful interactions. Medications currently taken, including supplements, vitamins, and over the counter products are factors that should be considered before taking herbal medication.
