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Generic Name: ginseng (GIN seng)
Brand Name:

What is ginseng?

Ginseng is an herb also known as Anchi Ginseng, Baie Rouge, Canadian Ginseng, Ginseng à Cinq Folioles, Ginseng Américain, Ginseng Americano, Ginseng Root, North American Ginseng, Occidental Ginseng, Ontario Ginseng, Panax Quinquefolia, Racine de Ginseng, Red Berry, Ren Shen, Sang, Shang, Shi Yang Seng, Xi Yang Shen and other names.

Ginseng has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in lowering blood sugar after a meal in patients with diabetes type 2, and for respiratory infections.

Ginseng has also been used to improve athletic performance. However, research has shown that ginseng may not be effective in treating this condition.

Other uses not proven with research have included attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), breast cancer, cancer related fatigue, menopausal symptoms, memory loss, anemia, insomnia, bleeding disorders, digestive disorders and other conditions.

It is not certain whether ginseng is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Ginseng should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.


Ginseng may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What is the most important information I should know about ginseng?


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ginseng?

Before using ginseng, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use ginseng if you have certain medical conditions.


  • diabetes;

  • hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrioses or uterine fibroids;

  • insomnia;

  • a mental disorder such as schizophrenia; or

  • an upcoming surgery.

Ginseng is considered likely unsafe to use during pregnancy.

It is not known whether ginseng passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.


How should I take ginseng?


If you choose to use ginseng, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different formulations of ginseng (such as tablets, liquids, and others) at the same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with ginseng does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

If you need surgery or dental work, stop taking ginseng at least 2 weeks ahead of time.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while taking ginseng?


Avoid using ginseng together with other herbal/health supplements that can lower blood sugar, such as alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, devil's claw, fenugreek, garlic, guar gum, horse chestnut, psyllium, and others.

Ginseng side effects


Although not all side effects are known, ginseng is thought to be likely safe for most people, when taken by mouth for a short period of time.

Stop using ginseng and call your healthcare provider at once if you have:


Common side effects may include:

  • diarrhea;

  • insomnia;

  • headache;

  • rapid heartbeat;

  • increased or decreased blood pressure;

  • breast tenderness and vaginal bleeding.


See also: Side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect ginseng?


Do not take ginseng without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

  • any medicine for diabetes;

  • warfarin (Coumadin);

  • medicine for depression; or


This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with ginseng, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.

Where can I get more information?


Copyright 1996-2012 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 5.01. Revision Date: 2015-08-03, 11:04:10 AM.