Ginseng - the root of life
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a plant belonging to the Araliaceae family, originating from Southeast Asia. It currently occurs in eastern Siberia, Korea and China.
Siberian ginseng contains numerous nutrients and biologically active compounds, such as peptides, saponins, vitamin C, vitamin E, amino acids, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamin B1 and B2, minerals: phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, zinc, copper.
This plant has been used in Chinese folk medicine for thousands of years - mainly to increase human vitality. Currently, it is considered one of the most powerful adaptogenic plants, which is due to the content of active compounds with anti-stress and immunostimulating properties. The adaptogenic effect of Siberian ginseng consists mainly in stimulating the body's non-specific immune response to stress factors, which allows the body to adapt to new environmental conditions.
Siberian ginseng is used in states of weakness, fatigue, reduced physical and mental capacity of the body, poorer concentration and during convalescence. Siberian ginseng extracts have a positive effect on learning processes. Siberian ginseng improves the body's ability to adapt to new stress conditions.
What other properties of ginseng are known?
Siberian ginseng soothes inflammation in the body - the ginsenosides present in ginseng are responsible for this effect. The compounds reduce the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thus providing protection against the development of diseases caused by chronic inflammation.
Siberian ginseng regulates cholesterol levels - ginsenosides present in ginseng have properties similar to statins. They lower high cholesterol, thus protecting the circulatory system against the development of atherosclerosis. Moreover, ginseng increases the level of the so-called good HDL cholesterol.
Siberian ginseng potentially supports erection - some researchers suggest that ginseng may support erection mainly due to the presence of nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels. However, scientific research is inconclusive on this issue.
Siberian ginseng supports memory and brain function - compounds present in ginseng protect the brain and nervous system against the harmful effects of free radicals. Thanks to this, they prevent neurodegenerative diseases and support cognitive functions. Moreover, ginseng relieves the effects of stress and improves well-being.
Siberian ginseng strengthens the immune system - ginseng stimulates immune system cells and also has antimicrobial properties, thus protecting against the development of various types of infections.
Siberian ginseng reduces blood sugar levels - the use of ginseng reduces fasting glucose levels and increases insulin sensitivity in people with type II diabetes.
Siberian ginseng in cosmetics
For centuries, Siberian ginseng has been considered a valuable ingredient for facial and body skin care, especially in Asian countries. No wonder that many Korean cosmetics, famous around the world for their exceptional effectiveness, contain extracts of this plant. Currently, more and more Western cosmetics producers are beginning to appreciate the unique properties of ginseng and are enriching their preparations with it.
How does Siberian ginseng affect the condition of our skin?
- Smooths wrinkles,
- Reduces swelling,
- Brightens discolorations,
- Reduces inflammatory changes on the skin,
- Supports the production of collagen in the skin,
- As a plant with antioxidant properties, it protects skin cells against the adverse effects of free radicals.
Siberian ginseng, commonly used as a dietary supplement, is famous for its numerous health-promoting properties. However, it is not suitable for everyone.
In what cases should it be abandoned?
- Hypertension,
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding,
- Age under 18,
- Pre- and postoperative conditions,
- Increased cortisol levels,
- Mental illnesses, e.g. schizophrenia,
- Hormone-dependent diseases, e.g. breast cancer, endometriosis,
- Taking blood thinning, antidiabetic, diuretic, antihypertensive drugs that affect the immune system and nervous system.
