Ginseng
What is Ginseng?
Ginseng is an herb with a root that has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems. It may have anticancer effects.
National Cancer Institute
Ginseng effect on cancer
This study: As a well-known herbal immune stimulant, hundredsof studies have extensively reported the anti-cancer or chemopreventive effects of ginseng. The anti-cancer effects of ginseng are mainly through the improvements in cell-mediated immunity consisting of cytotoxic T cells and NK cells, while other mechanisms such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, and angiogenesis are also involved.
This study: Preclinical studies on ginseng have indicated a number of immunologically relevant biological activities, including activation of macrophages, increases in NK cell activity and lymphocyte proliferation.
This study found ginseng was able to enhance innate and adaptive immune responses in mice and said the results indicate that ginseng could be considered a good candidate that may improve immune functions if used as a dietary supplement…
Adverse effects
- severe skin reaction–fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
Common side effects may include:
- diarrhea;
- insomnia;
- headache;
- rapid heartbeat;
- increased or decreased blood pressure;
- breast tenderness and vaginal bleeding.
Source: Drugs.com
Page updated 2024