Precautions and Warnings With Panax Ginseng

There are many precautions and warnings with Panax ginseng to be aware of, including potential side effects that may occur. The supplement may decrease the ability of blood platelets to stick together, cause low blood sugar, and have effects on heart rhythm and blood pressure. You may not be able to take Panax ginseng safely if you have diabetes, heart disease, or schizophrenia.

 

Is Panax Ginseng Safe?

Panax ginseng is an herbal supplement often used to enhance memory and mental function. You may not be able to take Panax ginseng safely if you have:
 
  • Heart disease
  • Hormone-sensitive disorders, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or many cancers
  • A bleeding disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Diabetes
  • An autoimmune disease, such as:
 
 
  • An upcoming surgery
  • Had an organ transplant
  • Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
You should also tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
This article specifically refers to Panax ginseng (also known as Asian ginseng, Chinese ginseng, and Korean ginseng). This type of ginseng should not be confused with American ginseng or Siberian ginseng, which are entirely different herbs.
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Panax Ginseng Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;