Health Benefits of Ginseng Root for Women

The root of the the Chinese ginseng plant, or Panax ginseng, has been used for thousands of years as a component of traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM. TCM practitioners widely regard ginseng root as an adaptogen, or an herb that enables adaptation to physical and emotional stress. Although ginseng has been studied for use across all ages and genders, it provides many benefits specific to the needs of women.

I have personally been using ginseng throughout several stages in my life, including pregnancy, weaning and episodes of mild depression. Depending on your specific stage in life and any medical concerns you may have, ginseng can help to provide any of the following benefits to you. Of course, always get the go-ahead from your primary health care provider before using any medicinal herb.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is an increasingly significant problem for women, particularly those over fifty. While ginseng root isn't a cure-all for cardiovascular disease--and certainly can't replace to role of diet and exercise--it does offer some protection when used alongside other reasonable treatments. Ginseng root is a powerful antioxidant, meaning that it can protect your LDL, or "bad," cholesterol from the effects of reactive oxygen molecules. Some limited evidence also suggests that it can prevent heart attack and stroke. If you're concerned about your heart health, ginseng may help to prevent or treat common cardiovascular diseases.

Sexual Health

Although the pharmaceutical industry makes a much bigger ado about men's sexual problems, women are actually much more prone to sexual dysfunction. If you're one of the millions of women who struggles with a low libido or an inability to achieve orgasm, ginseng root may help. Ginseng seems to stimulate bloodflow to the genitals, enabling more sexual interest and sensitivity. Professional help, either from a qualified sex therapist or from your health care provider, may be necessary if your sexual problems are persistent.

Pregnancy Health

From conception to postpartum, ginseng may help to support the pregnancy. Historically, TCM practitioners have recommended ginseng root to improve female fertility. It can also help to improve the health of unborn babies with anoxemic encephalopathy and retarded fetal growth. Midwives may also recommend it to prevent preterm or post-term labor, although there isn't enough evidence to firmly recommend for or against it. Although ginseng seems to be safe for expectant moms, it's critical to talk to your doctor or midwife before using it. She can help you to determine if the benefits are worth the potential risks.

Menopause

Menopause can be a very difficult stage in your life, and complementary medicine can help to mitigate some of its effects. Ginseng does not reliably treat hot flashes or night sweats, but it can ease sexual problems, mood swings and depression associated with menopause and middle age. It might also help to improve your clarity of thought, memory and cognition during and after menopause. Although it doesn't possess the ability to delay or prevent this inevitable aspect of aging, ginseng can help to make the transition as emotionally and physically painless as possible.

Remember that medicinal herbs, while generally safe, are also powerful medicines. Like all other medicines, they can cause side effects, drug interactions and other complications. For this reason, it is never a good idea to take a medicinal herb without carefully reviewing the potential risks. A qualified practitioner trained in botanical medicine can help you address any concerns you may have about your health.

The National Institutes of Health has more information about the benefits of ginseng for women.

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