Can American Ginseng Naturally Increase Estrogen Levels?

American ginseng is perhaps best known as being used to increase energy levels. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the use of American ginseng dates back to ancient Native American culture when it was utilized for indigestion ailments, headaches, infertility as well as fever reduction.

Although modern scientific studies have found that American ginseng can help protect the body from colds, flu, diabetes and cancer, most of its traditional uses have been debunked through modern research. The effects of American ginseng are currently being studied by researchers, and while the true effects this herb has on estrogen production is under debate, initial evidence shows interesting results.

What is American Ginseng?

American ginseng, also known as genus Panas, has been utilized primarily for its energizing properties. The primary active constituents in American ginseng include ginsenosides and glycans. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, these compounds are believed to provide the bulk of any medicinal benefit this herb has to offer. It is important to note that American ginseng is not as potent as Asian ginseng when it comes to its stimulating effects - actually, some report a calming effect instead of an energized one.

American Ginseng and Estrogen Levels:

According to the Linus Pauling Institute, the primary constituents found in American ginseng appear to have a similar effect on estrogen level as soy phytoestrogens, which are commonly found in natural hormone replacement therapies.

Researchers at Cornell University found that phytoestrogens react in your body in the same manner as naturally forming estrogen. Since American ginseng has the same reaction on estrogen levels as soy phytoestrogens, you should use extreme caution when taking American ginseng as it can raise estrogen levels in some while lowering estrogen in others.

American Ginseng Dosage:

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you can consume 100 to 200 milligrams of American ginseng extract up to three times per day. It is important that any extract contains a minimum of four percent ginsenoside concentrations.

References Used:

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/american-ginseng-000248.htm

University of Maryland Medical Center: American Ginseng

http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/s-s00/ginseng.html

Linus Pauling Institute: Ginseng and Breast Cancer

http://envirocancer.cornell.edu/factsheet/diet/fs1.phyto.cfm

Cornell University: Phytoestrogens and Breast Cancer