An increasing number of Americans have begun directing their attention toward alternative medicine for preventing and treating illnesses and solving their day-to-day health-related issues. Currently, a third of the population uses some kind of alternative medicine—despite skepticism and, in some cases, strong opposition by the modern medical establishment to the use of these unconventional techniques.
Herbal supplements are one of the alternatives that have gained popularity, with ginseng probably on of the most used and widely available. In fact, U.S. sales last year of ginseng products added up to $83 million, according to Nutrition Business Journal.
Ginseng’s main and lateral root and root hairs contain active chemical components called ginsenosides or panaxosides that are thought to be responsible for the herb’s medicinal properties. The root is dried and used to make extracts, teas, capsules or tablets, as well as creams and other preparations for use externally.
Treatment claims for ginseng are numerous. Many studies have shown that ginseng is able to reduce stress levels in both men and women. Scientists believe this is because of the strong effect ginseng has on the adrenal glands, which secrete hormones used to fight off stress. Ginseng has also shown promise in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, fighting off colds and flu, and morning sickness, among other ailments.
Recently ConsumerLab.com, a leading provider of consumer information and independent evaluations of products that affect health and nutrition, conducted a random study on ginseng supplements. The new Product Review of Ginseng Supplements provides test results for fifteen supplements – eleven selected by ConsumerLab.com and four tested at the request of their manufacturers/distributors that passed the same testing through CL’s Voluntary Certification Program. Results of the testing showed that five of the ginseng supplements did not provide their full amount of ingredient or were contaminated with lead and/or pesticides.
Source:Healthnews.com
