The health benefits of ginseng, from diabetes to cancer

Ginseng is a herbal plant that has many benefits. The roots of this plant have long been used as herbal medicine in traditional medicine. Usually ginseng root is consumed by mixing it into drinks, such as tea. This ginseng tea drink is usually believed to increase immunity, overcome fatigue, and much more. Want to know what are the benefits of ginseng? Check it out here.

Various benefits of ginseng that you may not know

1. Cognitive function

The first benefit of ginseng is to improve thinking or cognitive abilities. Research published in The Cochrane Library shows that ginseng has several benefits for cognitive, behavioral, and quality of life. Giving ginseng to children is believed to increase your level of concentration and focus.

The antioxidant content in ginseng can help fight free radicals that can damage cells in the brain. Thus, ginseng can also prevent dementia, Alzheimer's, and other cognitive disorders.

2. Anti-inflammatory effect

Apart from having antioxidant properties, ginseng also has anti-inflammatory effects. This anti-inflammatory effect of ginseng may be due to the ginsenoside compounds in ginseng. This compound has an immune-boosting effect, according to research published in the Journal of Translational Medicine.

3. Reduce stress

Ginseng can affect the body's nervous system in a number of ways, such as stimulating metabolism and increasing energy levels. Both can help reduce stress and anxiety in the body. The adaptogen compounds in ginseng may play a role in this. Adaptogens in ginseng can interfere with hormone levels that the body produces when stressed. Thus, ginseng can lower stress hormone levels in the body and help create a better mood.

4. Helps control diabetes

Ginseng is actually beneficial for those of you who have diabetes. Ginseng has been shown to help lower blood sugar levels. This herbal plant can help regulate the absorption of glucose in the body. Thus, it keeps you protected from sudden spikes in blood sugar (which makes diabetes dangerous).

Research published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine in 2005 shows that ginseng (American and Asian types), including roots, fruit, and leaves can treat diabetes. However, before you take ginseng, you should consult your doctor first. If you are already taking antidiabetic drugs, you may not need to take ginseng anymore.

5. Prevent cancer

Ginseng contains antioxidants that can fight free radicals in the body, thus preventing you from cancer. Ginsenosides contained in ginseng also have anti-tumor properties so they can prevent the development of cancer cells. One type of cancer that can be helped cure with ginseng is colon cancer. Studies have shown that ginseng consumption can reduce the rate of spread of colorectal cancer.

6. Prevent premature aging

Maybe you have often seen beauty products that contain ginseng in them. Yes, ginseng itself has benefits in preventing premature aging. Ginseng can reduce signs of aging. This is due to the antioxidant properties of ginseng. These antioxidants are able to prevent the negative effects of free radicals in the body that can damage healthy cells. The antioxidants in ginseng are also able to increase immunity and prevent heart disease.

Ginseng is also able to stimulate blood flow throughout the body, especially to skin cells. Thus, ginseng also helps make skin look younger and moisturized. You will also notice less signs of aging.

What you should pay attention to before consuming ginseng

Besides the various benefits it has, ginseng also has side effects. This is because ginseng is a very strong spice. Some of the side effects of ginseng consumption are stomach upset, headaches, sleep disturbances, and allergic reactions. Therefore, you should not consume ginseng too much and often. Just consume it in moderation. If you want to take ginseng supplements, it's best to consult with your doctor first.