Why The Elderly Should Consider Ginseng Products

Do you have elderly parents and family members whom you think may benefit from taking ginseng? Are you curious about what medical conditions ginseng can help with? Do you wonder if the things you read about how ginseng can treat certain illnesses and diseases are true?

A quick introduction to ginseng

Ginseng is an herb with green, oval-shaped leaves, long stalks, and fleshy, fork-shaped roots. It has many different types, but the two main ones are Asian ginseng, which is also known as Panax ginseng or Korean ginseng, and Panax quinquefolius, which is more commonly called American ginseng or Wisconsin ginseng. It has a long history of being used for clinical and therapeutic purposes, particularly in Asia and North America, where it is primarily cultivated up to this day. In traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used as a treatment for pain and other conditions for many centuries. These days, it is one of the most popular herbal medicines with a long list of health benefits.

Different health benefits the elderly can get from ginseng

Growing old is a natural phenomenon. It is a process that starts as soon as you enter early adulthood. Your different bodily organs and functions start to gradually decline, and you become at greater risk of health problems.

Usually, people who are 65 or older are considered elderly. They are highly likely to suffer from conditions that commonly affect the aging population, such as cataracts, hearing loss, back pain, neck pain, diabetes, and dementia. For this reason, finding ways to maintain good health and well-being for as long as possible is crucial.

With ginseng, elderly people can improve their quality of life. Ginseng contains essential active compounds that work to keep the body in good condition and protect against various health risks. Below are examples of the important health benefits of ginseng for the elderly:

Give an energy boost

Research has found that ginseng may reduce feelings of weakness and fatigue. In one study, men and women with chronic fatigue took ginseng and showed improvements over time. In another study, cancer patients undergoing cancer treatment took ginseng and showed reduced fatigue.

Enhance cognitive function

Ginseng contains various active chemical components that may treat certain cognitive issues. In a 2016 study, men and women with Alzheimer’s disease took ginseng for three months and showed improved function of their frontal brain lobe. Furthermore, in a 2018 study, people who took ginseng showed reduced oxidative stress levels, which could be good for their cognitive function.

Strengthen the immune system

There may be a crucial link that exists between ginseng and the human body’s immunity. In one research, findings suggested that ginseng may have the potential to prevent and treat flu and respiratory syncytial virus. Also, in a different study, findings showed ginseng’s potential in increasing the survival rates of flu-infected epithelial cells of the human lungs.

Reduce blood sugar

There are several active components that naturally exist in ginseng, but the most important ones are called ginsenosides. Based on a study, they may be responsible for regulating the production of insulin in the pancreas and supporting insulin resistance. A different study found that they may be effective in lowering blood sugar levels. Participants who took a certain dose of ginseng daily showed reduced blood sugar levels and increased insulin levels after each meal.

Reduce inflammation

In a recent study, the active components of ginseng, called ginsenosides, showed promise in reducing inflammation. They may work by targeting certain parts of the immune system that could protect against inflammation.

Treat erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a medical condition in which getting and maintaining an erection becomes difficult. Also known as impotence, it is common in elderly men, especially once they are in their 70s and 80s. Based on certain studies, it may be treated by taking ginseng. In one study, men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction took ginseng for two months and showed improved sexual function.

Through the years, there have also been studies conducted to find ginseng’s potential in treating other medical conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, hepatitis C, and menopausal symptoms, and the results and findings gathered are promising. However, experts say that more research is needed to collect strong and conclusive evidence on its effectiveness as a treatment solution for these illnesses and diseases.

Examples of ginseng products available today

These days, finding the right ginseng product for your needs should not be hard. There are many health stores that offer a wide range of ginseng products for people who want to achieve good overall health and wellbeing the natural way.

Baumann Wisconsin Ginseng offers the following products:

Dried ginseng roots – If you want to make ginseng soup or stew, using Wisconsin-grown American ginseng root is a good option. You can throw in the whole American ginseng root into a boiling pot or chop it into smaller pieces. You will know when your favorite soup or stew is ready to be served when the roots achieve a soft texture. You can also get our dried ginseng pre-sliced. These pre-sliced roots can be used the same way as whole roots in things like soups or stews, or they can be softened and used as chews on their own.

Ginseng capsules – If you want to take ginseng as a daily supplement, you should consider ginseng capsules. Also called ginseng pills, they come in 400mg capsules. To enjoy full benefits of our ginseng pills, follow the instructions on the label or take one before every meal for better absorption into the body.

Ginseng tea – Ginseng tea is a great way to get your daily ginseng boost. Simply steep a tea bag in hot water and enjoy on its own or sweetened with honey. You can also make ginseng iced tea to enjoy on hot days.

Other ginseng products on the market today include:

Ginseng tinctures – If you want to add ginseng to your water, juice, tea, or other beverages, you can try a tincture.

Ginseng powder – Another way to incorporate ginseng into your food and drinks is by using ginseng in its powdered form. Read the packaging for the correct amount to use. You can add it to enhance the flavor, texture, and nutritional value of your daily diet.

Ginseng cream – To care for your skin, there are ginseng topical products in the form of creams, lotions, and ointments. They are intended to help slow down the signs of aging, make your skin smoother and firmer, and provide hydration for a refreshing and glowing look.

Potential side effects of ginseng

Taking ginseng is generally safe if you stick to the recommended dosage on the product label or by your doctor. However, if you take too much of it or have a condition that interacts with it, you may experience some negative side effects, such as:

• Diarrhea
• Digestive issues
• Difficulty sleeping, reduce the quality of sleep
• Increased heart rate
• Fluctuations in blood sugar levels and blood pressure levels
• Adverse skin reactions
• Vaginal bleeding

For your safety, make sure to consult your doctor before taking it and read and follow the recommended dosage always.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-ginseng