Ginseng, perhaps one of the world’s best-known herbs has been in use in Chinese medicine for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Some reports say that ginseng has been used in China for at least 5000 years.

It was traditionally used as a restorative tonic to revitalise energy and well-being. Western research has found that many of these traditional claims are true, and that ginseng can be a very effective tool when it comes to weight loss.

What does ginseng do?

Studies have found that the active ingredient of ginseng (ginsenoside Rg3) inhibits cells that store energy as fat. This means that rather than storing energy as fat, the cells that are typically responsible for this action are unable to do it with the same efficacy – good news if you are trying to lose weight.

In another study, mice that were given wild ginseng orally showed a loss of body weight over the four-week time frame and a decrease in blood glucose levels as well.

Ginseng is what is known as an herbal adaptogen. This means it helps your body adapt to the stresses placed on it in a way that is non-toxic, non-habit-forming. For example, if you go through a heavy workout, it is thought that ginseng may encourage your body to use its energy stores more efficiently and burn calories better during exercise. Many athletes use ginseng when training in order to increase their stamina. It could work for you too.

Ginseng as a cure-all

Ginseng is very useful in ensuring metabolic equilibrium. Research done in Russia found that ginseng caused a spike in both physical and mental activities in people who described themselves as tired and weak.

With more energy and a boosted rate of metabolism, you will feel more able to get out there and exercise and live an active life – arguably one of the most important facets of weight loss.

But does it really work?

By taking advantage of this extra energy, you will find yourself able to do more. It goes without saying that the real, simplest way to lose weight involves diet and exercise. As much as we would like to reap the benefits of a wonder-pill, it boils down to energy expended versus energy consumed.

If ginseng can give you the extra energy to be more active and can improve metabolic function, there is no reason that it cannot help you lose weight.

What are the side effects?

One of the most reported side effects of ginseng usage is the inability to get to sleep – this is because of its energy-giving properties. There are some reports also that it can interact with antidepressants. Whatever the case, as with all new medication regimens, it is important to speak to your doctor or healthcare provider before starting anything new.

Ginseng lives up to its name as a cure-all

Ginseng facilitates metabolic equilibrium. Russian research showed that ginseng stimulated physical and mental activities in tired and weak individuals and aided with balancing. It was found to strengthen and protect under prolonged strain. Ginseng works to stimulate and improve the working of the brain with its ability to promote oxygenation.

The Russians also found it to increase energy and physical endurance. It stimulates the functioning of the endocrine glands and promotes vigor of the reproductive organs. Research is underway to determine the effectiveness of ginseng on erectile disfunction.

Asian researchers have documented ginsengs ability to reduce fatigue and increase stamina. They found that ginseng aids in the formation of red blood cells and helps eliminate anemia. Ginseng strengthens the gastrointestinal system, facilitates liver regeneration, and helps detoxify poisons.

Ginseng is one of the few herbs showing promise in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome. This puzzling condition has no widely accepted treatment for the numbing fatigue that typifies the condition. However, people suffering from chronic fatigue have reported an improvement in their symptoms after regular use of ginseng.