Ginseng

Panax Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Historical Context
Panax ginseng, often referred to as Asian ginseng, has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine in East Asia for centuries. Its name, "Panax," derives from the Greek word "panacea," meaning "all-healing," reflecting its esteemed status in ancient herbal practices. The root of this perennial plant is the primary source of its bioactive compounds, known as ginsenosides, which have been the subject of numerous studies investigating their potential effects on human health.

Scientific Investigations
Modern scientific research has explored the potential effects of Panax ginseng on various aspects of health. For instance, a study by Park et al. (2019) found that oral administration of ginseng for six months had a positive effect on cognitive improvement, particularly on visual memory, in Korean adults. PMC Similarly, a 2024 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial by Baek et al. evaluated the efficacy and safety of a Panax ginseng sprout extract, ThinkGIN™, in healthy adults. The study aimed to assess its potential effects on cognitive function, though the specific outcomes were not detailed in the provided summary. PMC

Mechanisms of Action
The potential effects of Panax ginseng are attributed to its ginsenoside content, which may influence various biological pathways. Ginsenosides are believed to modulate brain signaling pathways, regulate glycemia, and exert anti-inflammatory effects, although these mechanisms are still under investigation. Frontiers

Important Note
These statements are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an authorised health claim under UK law. The effects observed in research may not be achieved by consuming this product.

Bibliography

• Park, K. C., et al. (2019). Cognition enhancing effect of Panax ginseng in Korean adults: A 6-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Ginseng Research, 43(3), 373–380. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2018.05.002

• Baek, H. I., et al. (2024). Efficacy and safety of Panax ginseng sprout extract (ThinkGIN™) in healthy adults: A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Ginseng Research, 48(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2023.12.001

• Li, J., et al. (2021). Neuroprotective potentials of Panax ginseng against neurodegenerative diseases. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12, 688490. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.688490