There are few ingredients that are just as effective under the scrutiny of modern science as they were hundreds of years ago. However, as far as ancient medicines go, ginseng has proven itself excellent for its anti-aging benefits, cognitive enhancing properties, and the role it can play in boosting the immune system. Here, we’re going to look at what ginseng can do in your diet and how to ensure that you’re getting enough of it.
What is Ginseng and what does it do?
Rather than a specific herb or plant, ginseng is a name that refers to the roots of eleven different individual plants, such as the Korean ginseng and American ginseng plants. These roots have been used for hundreds of years in Chinese medicine, and have been shown to have a wide range of proven benefits.
As there are no foods that are natural sources of the active components of ginseng, it’s regularly added to foods and drinks. Nourished gummies that include ginseng are an easy and enjoyable way to take this multi-functional superfood!
What are the benefits of Ginseng?
Ginseng can strengthen your immune system.
Strengthening your immune system: Though the exact mechanics of ginseng’s effect on the immune systems are still being studied, it has been shown in multiple studies to make significant improvements in immune response and effectiveness [i]. It has been tested with groups of patients with stomach cancer [ii], improving their immune system, as well as enhancing the effectiveness of vaccinations against illnesses like the flu. [iii] [iv]
Ginseng is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
Ginseng can help fight the process of oxidation in the cells. Oxidation is caused by free radicals, chemicals that damage the cells inside the body, which is one of the main causes of the symptoms of aging, such as wrinkles. Furthermore, the cell damage caused by free radicals and oxidation is also one of the leading causes of cancer.
More studies have shown that ginseng can reduce inflammation. For instance, there were much lower inflammatory markers in athletes that were on a diet including ginseng compared to those who weren’t, in one study. Inflammation can affect our health in a wide range of ways, including causing joint pain, skin conditions such as psoriasis, and putting us at a higher risk of heart disease.
Ginseng can boost cognitive function.
Long been thought to have positive impacts on cognitive performance, as well as mental fatigue [v]. Scientific tests have shown this to be true, as well, improving mental functions, memory, and even mood in both healthy people and those with Alzheimer’s. It’s thought this might be caused by the fact that ginseng helps blood cells more efficiently process blood sugar, fuelling the brain.
Are you getting enough Ginseng?
So, what vitamin should I take, we hear you asking? Ginseng is one of the components of Nourished’s Inner Defence stack, our blend that’s primarily designed to assist and strengthen your immune system and keep you feeling healthy as possible. Alternatively, build your own stack or take the quiz to add ginseng into your own personalised gummy which is designed for you!
Want to Learn More?
Please visit the studies below or this page here to find out additional information regarding this inclusion:
[i] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21699953/
[ii] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7655337/
[iii] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21699953/
[iv] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20521975/
[v] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11895046/
