Panax ginseng

Silver· human data

Also known as: Korean ginseng, Asian ginseng

An adaptogen with early evidence for fatigue, cognition and, tentatively, performance.

Panax ginseng is a classic adaptogen used for energy, cognition and resilience to stress, with ginsenosides as its active compounds.

Human evidence is preliminary but reasonably active: some trials suggest reduced fatigue, modest cognitive and mood benefits, and improved immune measures, while exercise-performance results are mixed. Ginsenoside content varies a lot between products, which muddies the picture. It can affect blood sugar and interact with some drugs.

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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

Last reviewed: