Ginseng Side Effects

Ginseng is an extremely popular herbal supplement that is highly lauded for its benefits of improving memory, boosting erectile function and increasing energy, along with enhancing attitudes and moods. This dietary herbal supplement is not under the Food and Drug regulations it's under the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA). Before taking this herbal supplement as with any supplement or medication it is important to research its function as well as its possible side effects.

The American Herbal Product Association (AHPA)

• According to Npicenter.com, "the AHPA is the national trade association and voice of the herbal products industry." This organization leads the way in the field of dietary supplements. It was founded in 1983 and is responsible for representing the center of the herbal industry. It also promotes issues facing growers, manufacturers and marketers of herbal products ranging from small family-run operations to multi-national consumer product companies.

Function

• According to the Merek Manual reports, ginseng is effective in lowering blood sugar, increasing the levels of good cholesterol and improving memory. Other benefits include reducing stress, slowing the aging process and boosting the immune system. With all these health benefits of ginseng, as with any herbal supplement, there are side effects to be considered especially if the dosage is not handled correctly.

Side Effects

• Insomnia and nervousness are the two most common side effects encountered by people taking ginseng. Both of these conditions if experienced even for only a few days can be harmful to your health. Lack of sleep can cause serious mental and physical impairments. Nervousness causes changes in your body such as increased heart rate, respiration and blood pressure. The effects of continued nervousness would result in untoward results in the body.

Drug Interaction Effect

• Ginseng is contraindicated for people who are taking blood thinners such as Coumadin for which their blood coagulation (blood clotting) has to be monitored. Blood thinners are given to patients to dissolve blood clots that they have; in order to prevent the clot migrating to other parts of the body and causing a heart attack or stroke. Ginseng creates an interference with the action of these drugs. Therefore ginseng is prohibited in these patients.

Allergic Reaction

• Taking ginseng; as with taking any drug, drug supplement or over-the-counter medication; there is the possibility that an allergic reaction may occur. The signs of an allergic reaction includes, itching, skin hives or a rash and swelling of the face, along with swelling of the tongue and throat resulting in difficulty breathing. This is a medical emergency; seek immediate medical care.

Other Side Effects

• Other side effects that may occur while taking ginseng includes, headaches and the onset of an asthma attack in some asthmatics. In addition there may be decreased appetite and diarrhea. Seek immediate medical advice for hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure), vaginal bleeding and heart palpitations.

Considerations

• You must inform your doctor of all medications including over-the-counter drugs that you are taking in order for an assessment to be made regarding any drug interactions. Medications such as Aspirins, Ibuprofen and some diabetic drugs may lose their effects when taking ginseng. Ginseng should not be given to pregnant or lactating women.