Guest Author - Carolyn Chambers Clark, ARNP, EdD

Ginseng may help with fatigue, insomnia and depression. This articles provides information on how ginseng works and can help you if you suffer from fatigue, insomnia and depression.

Ginseng's history of strengthening the fatigued

Ginseng has a long history of being used for years by athletes to strengthen the body, and to help those with bronchitis, circulatory problems, diabetes, infertility, lack of energy and stress. Ginseng strengthens the adrenal and reproductive glands, which is why it can help with fatigue, insomnia and depression.

Research showing how red ginseng affects fatigue, insomnia and depression

A study of postmenopausal women examined the effect of Korean red ginseng on fatigue, insomnia and depression. The researchers examined the level of stress hormones in the blood before and for 30 days after receiving treatment with 6 grams of Korean red ginseng.

The effect of the ginseng was also tested by having the women fill out the Cornell Medical Index and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Anxiety scores were significantly higher for women with high levels of reported insomnia, depression and fatigue than for other women. Taking the Korean red ginseng decreased the scores on the tests and reduced the levels of stress-related hormones in their blood. The findings provide evidence that Korean red ginseng can provide relief from the menopausal symptoms of fatigue, depression and insomnia.

Cautions for using red ginseng.

CAUTION: red ginseng should not be used if you have hypoglycemia, high blood pressure or heart disorders.

Source:

Tode T, Kikuchi Y, HIrata J, Kita T, Nakata H, Nagata I. Effect of Korean red ginseng on psychological functions in patients with severe climacteric syndromes. Int J Gynacol Obstet, 1999, December, 169-74.

This article is for information purposes only. For medical care, consult with your health care practitioner.