Virility:
Ginseng has been traditionally used to treat sexual impotency and increase
virility. The US National Plant Data Center states that "in China, it (American
ginseng) is a panacea for sexual impotency". The University of Maryland Medical
Center reported that a study of 46 men found an increase in sperm count as well
as motility.
Aphrodisiac:
Ginseng was used by both the ancient Chinese and Native Americans as an
aphrodisiac, and it is widely used for this purpose today. An Italian review
stated that American ginseng has aphrodisiac and adaptogenic properties that
enhances physical performance (including sexual), promotes vitality and
increases resistance to stress and aging. The author stated that the adaptogenic
properties of ginseng are believed to affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal
axis, resulting in elevated plasma corticotrophin and corticosteroid levels.
Sexual dysfunction:
Animal studies in the USA support the use of American ginseng in the treatment
of sexual dysfunction. There is evidence that ginsenosides can facilitate penile
erection by directly inducing vasodilation and relaxation of the corpus
cavernosum. This appeared to be moderated by nitric oxide release from
endothelial cells and perivascular nerves.
A US researcher found that American
ginseng also affects the central nervous system and has been shown to alter the
activity of hypothalamic catecholamines involved in the facilitation of
copulatory behaviour and hormone secretion in mice. Pre-treatment with American
ginseng reduced the period between successive mountings and also successive
ejaculations. She postulated that the effects of ginseng may not be due to
hormonal secretion, but a result of the direct effect on nervous and gonadal
tissues.
When Chinese researchers performed very unpleasant things on mice, their
mounting behaviour and plasma testosterone were adversely affected. Injecting
them with ginsenoside Rb1 prevented this problem.
Female fertility, menopause & menstrual problems:
American ginseng was used in traditional Native American medicine to increase
female fertility and treat menstrual problems. The Cherokees referred to ginseng
as "The Plant of Life" and used it to help relieve female problems such as
menstrual cramps and excessive bleeding.
American ginseng is reported to have estrogenic properties that may be useful in
treating menopause symptoms, but without the potential side effects of
estrogenic drugs (such as cancer, stroke, and thromboembolism).
The US dietary and Supplement Information Bureau states that ginseng is commonly
used to treat menopausal symptoms. It cites a study involving 384 postmenopausal
women which compared the use of ginseng to a placebo for relief of menopause
related symptoms. Benefit was seen for depression and general well-being and
health. No advantage was seen for hot flashes and physical changes that occur to
the vagina and surrounding area (however another study reported improvement in
vaginal lubrication in menopausal women).
Please note:
Use only as directed. Always read the label. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.