You’ve probably read about adaptogens somewhere before; and you’ve probably heard the names of some of the ancient herbs considered adaptogens, like Ashwagandha and Reishi Mushroom, but did you know that these plants have supported the adrenal system for thousands of years? While these plants have been used in eastern cultures for countless generations, the west is just now studying how these plants and herbs help with the body's stress response and energy levels. One of the most popular adaptations is Panax Ginseng, a slow-growing short plant with fleshy roots.

While Ginseng comes in a few forms, the most popular forms are either American Ginseng (Panax Quinguefolius) or Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng). While these two forms seem like they would be very similar, they both provide very different effects on the body so we will focus on Asian Ginseng or Panax Ginseng for it's invigorating rather than relaxing effects.

Here are just a few benefits that Panax Ginseng can provide when incorporated into a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Antioxidants and Inflammation

The ginseng extracts and ginsenoside compounds derived from Panax Ginseng stop inflammation and increase the number of antioxidants in the body.[1] Ginseng may help reduce rates of oxidative stress by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. [2.3] When the body experiences oxidative stress, it produces free radicals faster than the body can fight them and detoxify the body.

Brain Function

Panax Ginseng has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to improve brain functions including memory, behavior, and mood when tested in clinical studies. [4,5] One study found that Panax Ginseng, when taken at 400mg per day for eight days, improved overall calmness and math skills. [6] Other studies have linked Panax Ginseng to improved brain function and behavior for patients with Alzheimer’s disease. [7]

Fight Tiredness & Increase Energy Levels

Panax Ginseng has been shown to act as a fatigue fighter as well. One double-blind study over a four week period gave people suffering from chronic fatigue a controlled dose of up two grams of Panax Ginseng or a placebo. Those who received the Panax Ginseng demonstrated less physical and mental fatigue over those patients who were given the placebo. [8]

A review of over 150 studies on the effects Panax Ginseng concluded that it may have a positive effect on both fighting fatigue and improving physical endurance. [9]

Lower Blood Sugar

Ginseng appears to help lower blood sugar levels for diabetics and non diabetics alike. [10] This may be because Panax Ginseng has been shown to cause a positive change in the gut microbiota. [11] Ginseng or the Ginsenosides contained in Panax Ginseng can also help control appetite and prevent overeating by helping inhibit the hypothalamus and lipid synthesis.

If you’re looking to get more Panax Ginseng in your daily routine, there are several places you can find this powerful adaptogen, including here at VitaCup in our new Slim Blend Infused Coffee which contains both Panax Ginseng and Garcinia Cambogia.