Panax ginseng (P. ginseng), sometimes called Asian or Korean ginseng, is the archetype of the ginseng family. Rich in more than 30 ginsenosides, it behaves like a metabolic “dimmer switch,” nudging multiple systems toward balance rather than hammering one target. Controlled trials show single 200–400 mg doses sharpen attention and working memory within 1 h, while 4–12 week regimens cut fatigue scores 15–35% and trim cold incidence by roughly 25%. Compared with stimulant herbs, ginseng raises cellular ATP without spiking heart rate or blood pressure thanks to vasodilatory nitric-oxide release. In functional-medicine terms, it is a broad adaptogen: modulating HPA-axis cortisol output, dampening inflammatory cytokines, and boosting vagal tone for calmer autonomic balance. Most benefits appear at 200–400 mg/day standardized to 4–8% ginsenosides, taken for 6–8 weeks; higher doses sometimes blunt attention or disrupt sleep.
Effectiveness4/5
Evidence4/5
Safety5/5
