Sharpen Your Wits with Ginseng By Maureen Williams (July 8, 2006)

Special Report by  Maureen  Williams

Sharpen Your Wits with Ginseng

Taking Panax Ginseng can improve the ability to perform mental tasks and reduce fatigue after mental exertion, according to the Journal of Psychopharmacology.

Asian ginseng, also known as Chinese ginseng, Korean ginseng, and red ginseng, is one of the most commonly used medicinal herbs in the world, and is used by an estimated six million people in the United States. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine to treat conditions such as weakness, fatigue, fevers, and ailments of old age. It is often used by people who want to improve their mental functioning and increase their energy level. Studies have found that ginseng can stimulate the immune system and control blood sugar levels. Results of other studies suggest it may contribute to cancer prevention and enhance sexual function.

In the recent study, mental fatigue ratings were significantly lower in people taking ginseng.  Blood sugar levels also dropped significantly in those taking both 200 and 400 mg of ginseng. This study provides evidence that for healthy people, a standardized extract of Panax Ginseng can improve performance on mental tasks, increase mental stamina, and reduce blood sugar levels.

Source:

Maureen Williams, ND, received her bachelor´s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and her Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in Seattle, WA. She has a private practice in Quechee, VT, and does extensive work with traditional herbal medicine in Guatemala and Honduras. Dr. Williams is a regular contributor to Healthnotes Newswire.